Injecting retro style into your kitchen is a great way to create a beautifully nostalgic, yet fun and functional atmosphere to your living space. Retro style itself takes inspiration from the bold colours, patterns and contemporary materials that rose in popularity between the 1950’s and 1980’s. The playful style captured the imaginations of creative homeowners who had previously been restricted with more traditional design choices.
Whether you are looking to embrace the style and create a statement retro style throughout your kitchen or just want to add subtle retro twists, this style is easy to achieve.

Opposites Attract

When you begin thinking about retro style, start with materials; think contrasting natural woods with synthetic finishes and bold patterned soft furnishings. It is these eclectic materials that really define the era and can really bring a living space to life.

The heavy contrast of natural and synthetic materials, daring fabrics and finishes is proof that opposites really do attract. Whilst you may be hesitant to pair a rustic oak cabinet with a daringly-coloured plastic chair and plush cushions, it is these unlikely pairings that really underpin the retro style.

To ensure you design a kitchen built to stand the test of time, start with the fundamental elements to kitchen design; what goes on in your kitchen? Do you need to allow for social or working areas, as well as cooking space? This Table Top Swivel Fitting is a great example of a solution that can create a multi-functional space; transforming a stylish table into an extra dining, working or preparation area. The dark wood finish also looks great set against a contrasting worktop; whether it’s plastic, marble or quartz. You can then inject bold coloured accessories to create a truly retro work area that serves more than one purpose.

Pop of Colour

When it comes to colour, don’t be afraid to have fun with your furniture, furnishings and appliances. Retro is a playful and fun design style, that isn’t afraid to push the traditional boundaries of colour matches. Of course, if you’re looking to add subtle hints, rather than an all-encompassing retro look, think about adding creative colour to smaller furnishings or appliances.

The growing range of 50’s style appliances couldn’t be more perfect for this. The range effortlessly combines flawless functionality and Italian innovation with soft shapes and bold colours to create appliances that are truly evocative of retro style. This beautiful collection can make a massive statement in any kitchen; whether it’s just one stand-out kettle or toaster, or the entire suite of appliances; including juicers, blenders, mixers and fridges. Your local Studio Partner will be able to help you decide how best to integrate Smeg appliances into your kitchen re-design.

Don’t Hide in the Dark

Retro style is all about adding a personality to your kitchen and there’s no better way to do this than displaying treasured ornaments, photos and keepsakes. Think about statement photo frames, bold patterned crockery or ornaments that pay tribute to the retro era itself, such as popular cars from the period.

The last thing you want to do is let these treasured possessions hide in the dark. Showcase lighting is perfect for subtly illuminating areas that you want to draw attention to. Talk to your local Studio Partner about how clever lighting solutions can make all the difference when it comes to highlighting certain areas of your kitchen.

Take a look at our Retro Inspiration page for more clever ideas on how you can integrate the iconic retro style in your kitchen.