It's always interesting to feel like an innovator. But there is something extremely attractive about antique kitchens. And although kitchen minimalism with its strict geometry is still not losing ground, it is being pushed aside by a softer design.
This kitchen gives you a feeling of calm and tranquility.
The modern kitchen turns from a purely utilitarian room into a place of communication, a communicative center of the home. Approaches to design are also changing: the kitchen interior is becoming more comfortable, individual and full of interesting details.
Specifics of an antique kitchen interior
The “vintage style” direction includes several styles that differ in character, have specific canons, and individual features. The variety of options that can be seen in the photos of antique kitchen designs allows you to find the ideal solution that meets your personal ideas about ideal comfort.
Each direction has certain features. But they also have common points. In retro style:
- natural materials dominate;
- natural shades are used;
- items from past eras and national cultures are included.
Antique kitchen design
Modern manufacturers of furniture, finishing materials, household appliances and lighting devices take into account the growing interest of consumers in retro design. In the assortment of these products, it is easy to choose successful options for the implementation of any creative idea.
Many consumers may have doubts about the possibility of designing such an interior. Natural materials, furniture and decoration made from them are expensive and are available only to people with high incomes. However, now this is not an obstacle to realizing the dream. Thanks to modern technologies, there are many high-quality imitations of wood and stone on the market. The cost of such products is much lower, and the aesthetic indicators are decent. Photos of antique kitchen designs made from such elements allow you to verify this.
Thanks to the wide range, it is not difficult to find retro-style furniture
Color spectrum
Colors for the kitchen are selected in accordance with the era: the 50s are characterized by acidic tones, the 70s, on the contrary, are muted.
The most recognizable combination is orange with blue or blue. But there are other, no less expressive duets:
- muted yellow with light green;
- turquoise with red or pink;
- red with olive;
- lemon with blue.
The photo shows a combination of muted shades
If you don’t want your kitchen to look too bright, use a light (white, beige) base and small color accents typical of retro.
Advantages of retro design in the kitchen
The growing popularity of vintage styles in home decor is easy to explain. City residents are tired of the abundance of concrete, glass and metal, laconic, faceless urban landscapes. After a hard day, I want to find myself in a warm, cozy atmosphere, to feel the full depth of the expression “my home is my fortress.” The retro style interior allows you to:
- take your mind off the pressure of the “concrete jungle”;
- enjoy a warm home environment;
- feel all the delights of a real family hearth.
Cozy kitchen interior in retro style
A significant advantage of such interiors is maximum comfort. Photos of antique kitchen interiors allow you to appreciate the attractiveness of areas for cooking and dining. Ergonomic furniture provides comfortable conditions for the hostess; a cozy atmosphere creates a pleasant atmosphere for family dinners and meetings with friends. Modern headsets are designed for installing household appliances. An antique-style kitchen is not inferior in equipment to rooms decorated according to modern standards.
Design styles, their features
The main areas that are used in antique kitchens include:
- classics;
- Provence;
- country;
- rustic.
The classic style allows you to provide the kitchen with an aristocratic, presentable look. It has many different variations. In these interiors, the main elements are high-quality wooden furniture with carvings, ideal symmetry, and noble, calm shades. In such a kitchen you can receive guests of any rank; it will immediately tell about the high status and excellent taste of the owners.
Aristocratic classic kitchen style
The main features of Provence are borrowed from the traditional designs of kitchens in houses in the south of France. The style has a special charm characteristic of Mediterranean regions, where they value comfort and sophistication. In these parts, people intuitively feel beauty, love to receive guests, and know how to not only work, but also relax. The design of an antique kitchen in the Provence style is distinguished by delicate, light colors, lightness and spaciousness, and comfort.
Provence style for connoisseurs of comfort and sophistication
A popular option for kitchens is the country style, which originates from America. The main canons of the direction are taken from the designs that were used by the ranchers. The main principles in creating interiors were comfort and practicality. Housewives had to prepare many dishes, and meals turned into small family celebrations. An interior in this style includes wall cabinets with paneled doors, tablecloths, floral-themed curtains, and warm, bright colors prevail.
Cozy and practical country style
Fans of original designs should look at photos of kitchens in the old rustic style. This direction is called rustic, it also includes several variations. This design uses ideas from peasant life of past eras. They are characterized by deliberate roughness and simplicity. The interior uses laconic wooden furniture, lamps imitating kerosene lamps, candles, etc.
Laconic wooden furniture for the kitchen in a rustic style
Types of shelves
Shelves in the kitchen are the most functional element. With their help, it becomes possible to place a lot of necessary items, and to do this in such a way that they are always within reach. And their spectacular appearance makes the shelves also a decorative element.
If you have at your disposal the most ordinary wooden shelf (the design does not matter), you can easily turn it into an interior element in the French country style. How? There are at least three simple ways:
- Painting with light paint.
- Using the craquelure or decoupage technique.
- Artistic painting.
The latter option is ideal for those who have at least basic art education or skills. Although, in fairness, it is worth noting that Provence does not require you to create artistic masterpieces. So, if drawing a delicate bouquet is not a problem for you, you can start decorating the shelves and cabinets.
The main thing is that the size of the shelf matches the dimensions of your kitchen. Agree, a huge wooden structure in a kitchen of modest square meters looks, at the very least, ridiculous. Not to mention that such a shelf will be inconvenient to use.
The shelf must match the size of the kitchen.
Based on the location of the shelf and its appearance, the following options are distinguished:
- Floor or wall.
- Closed or open.
- Wide or narrow.
- With stands or hooks.
- With drawers or doors.
Open shelves
A distinctive feature of the Provence style is the abundance of decorative elements. Numerous figurines, vases, candlesticks, framed photographs (it is better if the photo is slightly faded, with a hint of antiquity). Thanks to such cute little things, the room is filled with an atmosphere of comfort and warmth. It is clear that all this miniature splendor should be put on public display. And open shelves are perfect for this purpose, by the way.
Open shelves serve to display dishes and decorative items.
Open models have a number of advantages:
- They help create a unique, soulful design.
- Due to the fact that the shelves do not have doors, space is saved, as well as time for their operation.
- The items you need are always at hand.
Such designs play the role of a kind of showcase in which souvenirs and gifts about people dear to the heart are displayed, or dishes are beautifully arranged.
Designs without doors can be used as a display case for souvenirs.
The main disadvantage of open models is that dust invariably accumulates on them. And you have to wipe not only the surfaces, but also the objects that are placed on them.
Open shelves require more frequent cleaning.
Closed shelves
Most often, such designs are distinguished by deliberate roughness and massiveness. They are valued for their spaciousness and ease of use. It is best to place closed shelves in large kitchen spaces.
The main advantage of such shelves is that they do not require frequent wet cleaning. In addition, if there are children in the family or pets live with you, the closed design will ensure the safety of kitchen utensils and fragile decor.
Closed shelves provide better storage of items and protect from dust.
Classic kitchen design
The classic design has several main features that are common to all options. They provide the style with elegance, sophistication, and impeccability. Various techniques can be used to create a specific interior, but there are rules that must be followed. In a classic design:
- symmetry and straightness are maintained;
- no more than three colors are used;
- natural shades are used;
- welcome: carving, elegant fittings, forging, stucco.
Kitchen made of solid wood with carvings in a classic style
A wonderful option is an antique kitchen set made of solid wood with carvings and gilding. High-quality furniture is the main element of a classic interior. Modern objects stand up well to the difficult conditions of this room. They are treated with impregnations that do not allow moisture and high temperatures to damage the structure. The wood is covered with several layers of varnish.
Elite antique solid wood kitchens are an expensive product. Typically these items are made to order. Mass production of classic-style furniture is made from more affordable materials. The main part of the structure is made of chipboard, MDF. Natural wood is used to create facades.
Furniture in natural colors is used in classic interiors
Interior in Provence style
The light, cozy Provence style turns the kitchen into a comfortable, romantic oasis and provides it with a pleasant atmosphere. This design direction can be used for small rooms; its specificity allows you to visually expand the room and provide spaciousness. In the photo of antique kitchen sets in this style there are compact options.
The main features of Provence are:
- furniture with aging effect, carvings;
- open shelves, racks;
- light pastel colors;
- use of bronze, copper objects, ceramics;
- plant decor.
Light cozy Provence style
There should be a lot of light in the room. If the window size does not provide an intense flow of natural light, you need to compensate for the deficit with the help of lamps.
Choosing furniture for this design is not difficult. There are many photos of antique kitchen sets in the Provence style on the Internet. The sets combine wall cabinets with carvings and glass inserts, open shelves and niches. The most popular shades are: white, light blue, beige, light mint.
Kitchen cabinets with distinctive glass inserts
The room can be decorated with stucco molding, marble tiles, sandstone, countertops made of natural and artificial stone, etc. Provence is very popular and is one of the fashionable styles; there are many photos of antique kitchens online, made in this design direction. You can find in them a project that matches the area and layout of your room.
How to determine the location
It will be possible to correctly fit shelves into an existing kitchen set if their design does not violate symmetry and echoes other furniture or facades. Experts do not recommend hanging shelves near the stove and sink, otherwise the contents will have to be constantly cleaned from splashes of grease, water, and detergents.
Designers often use kitchen wall shelves to create a seamless transition from the work area to the dining or living room. The location also depends on the content. Decorative items are usually placed next to the sofa, table, and functional items on the apron wall.
Spices and napkins are placed on table shelves. If the task is to make maximum use of the vertical space, shelves are also installed above the top shelves of the cabinets. To place small items, you should choose narrow models and hang them directly above each other.
For large items, massive single-level shelves and racks are suitable. But you should not place them in places of “high friction” - in the aisle, on the side of the sink, refrigerator, in close proximity to the dining table. There is a high probability of damaging the contents.
Comfortable country in a city kitchen
The country interior provides the opportunity to feel the warm atmosphere of a cozy country house. This technique is often used in the design of apartments; it allows you to enjoy real comfort and take a break from urban landscapes. And in this interior, antique solid wood kitchens can be installed. They fully comply with the canons of style.
The characteristic features of country music include:
- maximum practicality;
- wide range of colors;
- simple design;
- a large number of open shelves;
- paneled cabinet doors with glass;
- rural motifs in decor.
Country style will create a warm atmosphere of a country house
One of the advantages of this style is the possibility of including elements made of nickel-plated metal and plastic. There shouldn't be many of them. They are sometimes used in the design of facades for antique kitchens, countertops, and elements of the dining room group are made from them.
Several colors can be used in country music; it is important to avoid the feeling of excessive variegation. Preference is given to pastel colors. The exception is the brown color scheme. The presence of items in dark shades of this spectrum is a mandatory element of this style. Country is widely represented in photos of antique kitchen interiors. When choosing, it is possible to take into account not only the size of the room and its layout, but also personal preferences.
Dark shades are a must
Which headset should I use?
Vintage kitchen cabinets are recognizable: bright, with unusual fittings. In general, the kitchen units were not high, they were not built to fit the ceiling, and the upper cabinets were quite compact.
Features of retro headsets:
- sliding doors - especially common on upper modules;
- non-standard fittings: from wooden handles across the entire width or height of the facade, to chrome-plated large buttons or even sawn holes in the doors themselves;
- narrow upper cabinets - instead of one, 60 cm high, it is better to put 2 rows of 30 each;
- paneled, carved facades;
- inserts made of embossed glass or plastic.
The photo shows sliding kitchen facades
Most often, kitchen sets were colored: blue, yellow, green, or consisting of several shades at once.
But ordinary wooden ones are also suitable, which are complemented by a stylish colored (scarlet, dark blue) or stone countertop.
Extraordinary rustic in kitchen design
In the fashion rankings, rustic now occupies a leading position. This extraordinary style combines all the main trends:
- use of natural materials;
- interesting, non-standard solutions;
- maximum practicality.
Rustic design is an imitation of a simple peasant hut. This design looks especially impressive in large rooms, where you can install an oversized table and benches, or create something like a Russian oven or brazier. But even for a small room you can choose acceptable options.
Rustic style is suitable for spacious kitchens
Rusticism has several essential elements. The ceiling is equipped with wooden beams, the walls are decorated with open shelves, pottery is selected for decoration, embroidered towels, linen tablecloths, and curtains are used. If it is not possible to purchase furniture made of natural wood, you can use antique kitchen facades made from natural material. Processing of products should be minimal. Rusticism is characterized by roughness and simplicity.
Wooden beams emphasize the character of the rustic style
Looking for textured fabrics
First of all, you will have to abandon any synthetic textiles. You need to choose among natural materials: linen, cotton, velvet...
As for their density, the decision is yours. Perhaps thin lace curtains and an openwork tablecloth will do. Or maybe you want heavy curtains and the surroundings that match them.
Try to choose materials that are richer than the main background - they should become bright accents, and not merge with the walls and furniture.
In addition, pay attention to prints and painting motifs that are characteristic of the desired period of time: this will add ambience to the room.
Ceiling finishing
In interior design, special attention is paid to the ceiling. This element is the first to come into view and is an important background detail. When choosing finishes for kitchens, you should take into account the specifics of this room. Even with high-quality exhaust hood equipment, the ceilings will have to be regularly cleaned or cosmetic repairs performed. You can, of course, design a hanging system, but for a small kitchen this option is not practical.
Traditional white ceilings look harmonious in antique kitchen design. The type of decor is selected depending on the style, used:
- painting with water-based paints;
- covering with plastic panels;
- tiling;
- use of polyurethane stucco molding;
- decor with ceiling beams.
White ceiling is suitable for any style of kitchen
Painted ceilings with stucco cornices and rosettes look great in a classic design. This solution can also be used in Provence. For country style, painting or tiling is suitable. In rustic style, the ceiling is decorated with beams made of wooden beams. These elements can also be used in country interiors.
We work with plumbing
Standard metal sinks with complex shapes will not work. Look for porcelain or earthenware bowls. True, the latter are quite fragile - take this into account when choosing.
An extravagant option is a gold-plated or brass round sink. It looks very pretentious, so you will have to take care of its compatibility with the set.
However, there is no need to give up convenience for the sake of traditional vintage design: put your own comfort first. If a 50s-style sink is difficult to handle, it’s better to find a modern one with the right parameters.
Wall decoration
Walls create a backdrop for furniture and decorative elements and should highlight their advantages. In the modern assortment, you can choose several retro options. There are many interesting design solutions in the photos of antique kitchens. For the most part, the following are used in wall decoration:
- textured plaster;
- porcelain tiles imitating stone;
- clinker tiles;
- whitewash.
Decorative plaster is great for retro style design. With its help, you can create the atmosphere of bygone eras in the room. An economical but attractive option is to whitewash a lined wall. This background perfectly emphasizes the beauty of wooden facades for an antique kitchen.
Decorative plaster will create the atmosphere of bygone eras
All leading manufacturers of ceramic finishing include various imitations of natural materials in their range. You can choose marble-like porcelain tiles or granite to provide a classic kitchen with a majestic, presentable look. Clinker tiles, ideally imitating brickwork, will look good in a rustic setting. You can choose excellent options for country style, decorate the kitchen in Provence style with sandstone tiles. The advantage of ceramics is its high resistance to any influences and durability. This surface can be easily cleaned using detergents.
Ceramic tiles are resistant to any impact
In the photos of antique-style kitchens there are also professional projects with wall decoration with wallpaper and plastic panels. Vinyl canvases with plant and flower themes will look harmonious in Provence or country. In rustic or classic style, you can use panels with imitation wood texture. These materials are also designed for use in conditions of high humidity and temperature.
Wallpaper with floral patterns in the kitchen interior
Installation considerations
Installing wall shelves is usually lighter than cabinets and does not cause difficulties. The simplest fastening is the classic screw. If heavy objects will be stored on the kitchen shelf, it itself should be quite massive, and for additional reliability you should use furniture corners and decorative brackets.
Glass and other delicate materials that cannot be drilled can be mounted using the pelican piece. It looks sleek and fits shelves up to 35mm thick.
The hidden fastening allows you to hide the fixing elements on the wall from view. Such a shelf is put on pins, which are pre-attached to dowels and screws. If plates and other objects that are unstable in a vertical position are placed on a wooden shelf, it is worth installing dowels on a horizontal surface.
Retro kitchen floors
The main loads in the kitchen have to be withstood by the floor coverings. To decorate these rooms, materials with increased resistance to mechanical stress, moisture, and chemicals are selected. The best option for antique kitchen design is wooden floors. But this does not mean that only solid boards can be used as a covering. This material, even with high-quality processing, will begin to deteriorate too quickly. Now you can find a great alternative.
You can choose from an assortment of high-quality imitation wooden floor coverings:
- laminate;
- linoleum;
- porcelain stoneware.
The floor covering is selected with increased resistance to mechanical stress
Leading brands offer reliable materials that can maintain aesthetic and functional properties for many years. The product range includes imitations of different types of wood, differing in texture and shade. These materials go well with antique kitchen sets and help highlight the style features.
In earlier times, not only wood was used in flooring. Natural stone was a popular option for respectable houses. There is no need to cover your kitchen floors with natural granite or marble tiles. In the porcelain stoneware category there are excellent imitations of natural materials. Photos of antique kitchens allow you to appreciate the solidity and respectability of interiors with such finishing.
Natural stone flooring
Colorful 40s
Despite the military events of these years, the kitchen of families living in the first half of the 20th century was a picturesque and vibrant sight.
The main difference between the kitchen interior of the war period was the rich colors, namely: cherry, soft blue, lemon, bright or variegated green, yellow, carrot and turquoise.
These tones were diluted with black and white elements, which, in combination with kitchen appliances made entirely of stainless steel, created a pleasant and unique image.
Wallpaper with flowers or patterns covered not only the walls, but also the ceiling. The floor was decorated with small or large checks or a motley 2 or 3-color pattern. Short checkered curtains covering a third of the window (maximum a few centimeters below) often match the floor in color.
Tip: small curtains at the level of the floor cabinets can easily hide modern household appliances.
Antique furniture in the interior
It is quite difficult to purchase various items separately to create an interior. An antique kitchen set eliminates the risk of disharmony or an unsuccessful combination. In addition, special furniture sets provide convenience in placement and storage of necessary utensils and products, and allow the installation of built-in household appliances.
The main material in the manufacture of retro-style sets is wood. It allows you to recreate in detail the atmosphere of past eras, creating the same coziness and comfort. In the photo of antique kitchen sets, you can choose an option for any style. Manufacturers produce sets with different configurations, dimensions, and offer several shades so that the consumer has the opportunity to find the best option for a particular room.
Antique wooden kitchen set
An important element of the kitchen is the dining group. This furniture can be purchased separately, taking into account the size of the free space and style. In the photo of antique kitchen designs you can see sets with:
- chairs,
- stools,
- benches.
Traditional chairs are usually used in classic Provence designs. For country style, you can choose wooden stools; benches will fit harmoniously into rustic.
Dining group for antique kitchen design
An important element of the interior is the tabletop. Solid wood models look great in an antique-style kitchen. Countertops made of natural and artificial stone look solid and respectable. Postforming is a budget option.
The tabletop is an important element of the interior
Organization of lighting and windows
Natural lighting must be used with maximum efficiency - a work area or dining area is located opposite the windows. The main lamp, a massive chandelier, is mounted above the tabletop. The remaining lamps should be combined with the chandelier or they should be disguised by placing them at the necessary points behind the lampshades in a minimalist style.
Only the main chandeliers are visible
Important elements of an antique kitchen
In professional photos of antique kitchen interiors, you can see that the beauty and advantages of these styles are emphasized not only by furniture and decoration. There are other important details in the design:
- lighting;
- plumbing equipment;
- textile decor.
The choice of ceiling chandelier and sconce should be given no less attention than finishing materials. These devices should create comfortable lighting and highlight the attractiveness of the furniture and its features. It is necessary to ensure a harmonious combination of all elements of the environment. For example, complex chandeliers with forged work and crystal look good in the classics; lamps with frosted glass, white floral shades fit harmoniously into Provence. You can complement the country style with a textile lampshade, and the rustic look can be decorated with an imitation of a cart wheel.
A chandelier will highlight the attractiveness of furniture
Classic antique solid wood kitchens have a respectable appearance and require appropriate interior elements. You can choose a vintage-style brass faucet, install a hood with wooden elements, artistic forging trim, etc.
Today's assortment allows you to choose elements of fabric decor, dishes, and other products that can successfully emphasize the chosen style and make it more expressive. Photos of old-style kitchens will help you find interesting solutions.
Dishes and decor will make the vintage style more expressive
Required Tools
To make furniture you need:
- measuring instruments;
- cutting and drilling tools (saws, knives, chisels, drills with drills, planes, clamps, crowns, wire cutters, screwdrivers, hammer);
- milling machine.
The materials you need are a primer, various stains, and varnish. When patination, you cannot do without acrylic paint and processing materials.
