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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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