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In the world of interior design, trends definitely come and go, but some styles, like the kitschy kitchen or kitschen makes a come back again and again. This whimsical, retro-inspired design approach brings a burst of color, quirky patterns, and a touch of nostalgia to modern kitchens.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the charm of the kitschy kitchen trend and how you can infuse your culinary space with a delightful dose of personality.
Table of contents
How to get the Kitschy Kitchen Look
A Splash of Color
One of the defining features of kitschy kitchens is the vibrant and bold color palette. Think cheerful yellows, vibrant reds, and playful pastels. Embrace the spirit of the trend by incorporating colorful appliances, utensils, and even wall decor.
Retro-Inspired Patterns
Bring back the nostalgia of yesteryears with retro-inspired patterns that scream kitsch. Polka dots, checkerboards, and geometric shapes are all fair game. Consider incorporating these patterns into your kitchen curtains, tablecloths, or even backsplash tiles. The key is to mix and match patterns fearlessly for a playful and eclectic vibe.
Whimsical Wall Art
Transform your kitchen walls into a gallery of kitsch with whimsical and retro wall art. Consider framed vintage recipe cards, quirky food illustrations, or even retro advertisements. This personalized touch adds charm to the space and creates a focal point that reflects your love for the kitschy aesthetic.
Playful Flooring
Don’t neglect the floor when embracing the kitschy kitchen trend. Consider bold and patterned flooring options, such as checkered tiles or colorful linoleum. This not only ties the entire look together but also brings an element of surprise to an often-overlooked area of the kitchen.
Vintage Accessories
Scouring flea markets and thrift stores for vintage kitchen accessories can be a treasure hunt in itself. Look for quirky salt and pepper shakers, colorful mixing bowls, and vintage glassware to add character to your kitchen. These unique finds not only serve a functional purpose but also tell a story of a bygone era.
Modern Finds to Get the Retro Kitchen Look
If flea markets aren’t your thing or you just want a handful of reliable, modern home appliances that keep the the retro look, try some of these:
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Buy Now → Kitschy Kitchen Inspiration
Vintage Charm
This sweet little teal kitchen from @hopegoesthrifting is bright and inviting with it’s original white cabinets and teal stove.
Her stovetop stylings are worth including as a close up to admire all of the unique elements happening here.
Vintage Stoves Make the Kitschen
This pink vintage stove has been beautifully kept and restored. It makes our modern appliances look rather dull. It’s the perfect focal point for any true kitschen! So many buttons! What do they do??
Goth Kitschen
It’s dark, it’s bright, it’s working! Leopard print curtains and pink Smeg appliances never knew a truer home.
Modern Kitschen
This kitchen from @the_flat_that_rosie_built blends the convenience of modern kitchen cabinets and appliances with look and feels of eclectic vintage vibes, using a little paint, some very cool hardware, cute pink tiled backsplash, and a floral print refrigerator cover. Follow her on IG for all the details!
A Bright and Airy Kitchen with a Vintage Touch
@emilypertzborn is a vintage collector and uses her thrifted finds to style her clean, vintage kitchen. Don’t miss that red and white poodle toaster cover!
Retro Pink Marvel
This is peak pink retro kitchen! This wonderful little time capsule from @vinneboyvinatge will make you think you’ve just walked into your grandma’s kitchen, circa 1965. Jello for everyone!
Retro Renovation
This retro renovation from @vintagegirl80 features her painted appliances, including this teal fridge – the perfect solution when you don’t have a Smeg in the budget anytime soon!
The Sunshine Kitchen
We’re loving the way the sunlight dances through this retro inspired kitchen from @homeofcharl! Bonus points for that perfect pink door!
Kitsch Deco
While maybe not entirely kitsch, this is one of our favorite retro feeling kitchens. That bubble hood and matching pink stove are… chef’s kiss!
Pastel Retro Kitchen
This retro pastel kitchen from @my_colourfulsquares is proof that you can never have enough pink or teal in one kitchen!
Toddler Kitsch
Even the little ones can use a little kitsch in their kitchen and this setup from @pinkandhank is one of the cutest things we’ve seen in quite some time, especially those little teal salt and pepper shakers.
Party Kitsch
Everything about this collection of vintage bowls, canisters, pyrex, and dishes brings a smile to my face.
Maximalist Retro Kitsch Style
Everything about this kitchen take me back in time. A true time capsule, down to the littlest details, like that avocado television set and the floor motif! Definitely worth a click-through to admire all of the details.
Bright Kitschy Vibe
One of my favorite parts about the whole kitschy movement is their willingess to work with what is already there, like these perfectly painted cabinets from @alexachambers. A little new mixed with a little old is the perfect balance here.
Peekaboo Kitschy Cabinets
Not ready to go full retro in your kitchen? Try adding a few peekaboo elements, like these vintage lined shelves from @alexachambers.
Modern with a Kitschy Flare
This modern kitchen pairs perfectly will these vintage finds to bring a little more style and personality to this space.
Sweet, Classic, Romantic Kitschy
If romance kitsch is a thing, @thevettelfarm has it covered – roses, picnic baskets, milk glass, and that amazing shake machine.
Bold Colors
70s Kitsch
The kitschy kitchen trend is a journey into the past, where charm and personality take center stage. By infusing your space with bold colors, retro patterns, vintage accessories, whimsical wall art, and playful flooring, you can create a kitchen that not only serves as a functional space but also tells a story of your unique style. So, dare to be bold, embrace the kitschy, and turn your kitchen into a whimsical haven that celebrates the joy of retro charm.
70s Interiors That’ll Make You Say, “Groovy, Baby!”
Looking for more kitchen and vintage inspiration?
Are you looking for more retro charm? Here are 70s Interiors That’ll Make You Say, “Groovy, Baby!“ and some of our favorite tips for Styling a Credenza: Mid-Century Modern.
