5 ways to get a totally retro kitchen

Discover a retro kitchen that proves that kitsch is always cool

A small tired kitchen was transformed into a light-filled family kitchen-diner with a new extension and a fresh and funky retro scheme that pushes all the right mid-century buttons.

kitchen with turquoise cupboards and counter

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

An original 1960s Californian Wrighton kitchen - complete with turquoise cupboards and curvy worktops - was the chance find in a secondhand shop that started the ball rolling for this fabulous makeover. Wall tiles in cute candy shades (found at Tile HQ) bring a fresh, sunshine feel that sums up the retro vibe perfectly.

retro kitchen with turquoise cupboards and counter

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

Kitchen kit in a mix of primaries and pastels adds bright pops of colour and there's no denying that the flooring makes a fabulous statement underfoot. Choosing such a vibrant floor (Parquet by Neisha Crosland at Harvey Maria) was a bold move that really works, setting off the units beautifully. Going for this luxury vinyl tile flooring was clearly the right choice; it's hardwearing and practical - perfect for a kitchen. And just how cute is that knitted tea cosy?

retro with turquoise colour cupboard and cockery

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

This gorgeous original larder cupboard from the 1950s (just like your grannie would have had) is used for storing crockery, glassware and quintessentially kitsch flamingo cocktail sticks. Given a fresh lick of turquoise paint, this piece oozes mid-century flair. Track one down in your local vintage shop or on eBay.

retro kitchen with swivel chair and comfy patchwork cushion

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

If you've a large kitchen, find space for a high-backed swivel chair for the right amount of Swinging Sixties style. Pop on a comfy patchwork cushion for extra kitsch points. And no retro kitchen is complete without its very own bubblegum machine.

kitchen with dining table and chair and fridge

(Image credit: Future PLC/Oliver Gordon)

The dining table was upcycled from an old front door and the chairs - in a mix of styles and all spray-painted in different glossy shades - certainly tick all the style boxes. Walls are painted in Dulux Light & Space paint in Absolute White which has light-reflecting pigments to ensure a bright and sunny look. The Aerial pendant light - in spectacular yellow - is by Habitat at Argos. But the icing on the cake has to be the pink fridge (Smeg Fab fridge at The Kitchen Seller), which pulls off the retro look effortlessly.