Mid-century modern design developed after World War II, when the postwar real estate boom required an approach that was achievable on a large scale. The style gained great prominence in the 1950s and 60s as these spaces were cozy and inviting. Today the mid-century modern style is definitely back, it’s the new black, and for good reason. This style is flexible and has a broad appeal that transcends generations. Millennials appreciate the chic and cozy look, while older homeowners appreciate the nostalgia of the style. Let’s take a look at how to design a mid-century modern kitchen that will make everyone happy.
layouts
Most mid-century modern kitchens were built in a galley style with two parallel countertops and a walk-in area in between. These kitchens were typically compact, and that can be a challenge when remodeling a mid-century home with today’s storage needs. Nowadays, most homeowners choose a kitchen with a kitchen island to increase the cooking space and make using the kitchen more comfortable.
a beautiful Mediterranean kitchen with light stained cabinets, stone countertops, an island and open shelving
A chic mid-century modern kitchen with black cabinets, white countertops, white Moroccan tiles and light stained shelves
A chic mid-century modern kitchen with dark stained and white cabinets, white stone countertops and a white tile backsplash, as well as lights and lamps
A chic mid-century modern kitchen with two-tone cabinets, gray stone countertops, a white thin tile backsplash, and neutral fixtures
A chic mid-century modern kitchen with white cabinets, black countertops and backsplash, wooden island and leather stools
A cool, mid-century modern graphite gray and white kitchen with butcher block countertops, a round table and wooden chairs, and open wooden shelving
A cool mid-century modern kitchen with white shaker-style cabinets, a large range hood, a gray kitchen island, open shelving and cool lamps
a cozy mid-century modern kitchen with green cabinets, light stained shelves, a range hood, white countertops and a wooden kitchen island
a cozy, richly stained kitchen with graphite gray stone countertops and white geometric tiles on the back wall
A pretty pink mid-century modern kitchen with a white square tile backsplash, white countertops and glamorous gold fixtures
A dark green mid-century modern kitchen with shaker-style cabinets, white stone countertops, a tabletop kitchen island, and black stools
Materials and surfaces
Mid-century kitchens have distinctive clean lines, including sleek countertops and edges. This minimalist look is very popular today. So focus on bringing the midcentury kitchen into the 21st century by modernizing finishes, appliances, and storage space. However, stay true to the mid-century modern aesthetic by choosing natural, uncomplicated materials.
Updated cabinetry can transform the look of a mid-century modern kitchen. Flat panel cabinets fit well with the clean lines of the design style. If you choose a natural wood, a continuous vertical grain provides additional detail. New cabinets also provide a fantastic opportunity to add additional storage solutions to a medium-sized kitchen. For example, there are many creative design ideas to make use of unused corners, including clever diagonal drawers with individual dividers.
A dark stained mid-century modern kitchen with white countertops, white stools, pendant lamps, and gold fixtures is a beautiful space
A fabulous mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, a black and neutral kitchen island, neutral stools and thin tile
A fabulous mid-century modern kitchen with two-tone cabinets, white countertops, a mosaic tile backsplash and a navy blue kitchen island
A fantastic mid-century modern kitchen with green cabinets, a white island, open shelving and leather stools
A fantastic mid-century modern stained kitchen with white countertops, geotile backsplash, window and skylights
A glamorous mid-century modern kitchen with green cabinets, open shelving, a white range hood, shelves and a marble kitchen island
A gorgeous mid-century modern kitchen with rich stained cabinets, a geometric backsplash and neutral stone countertops, plus a Boo rug
A beautiful mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, a white chevron backsplash and a navy blue kitchen island with a white marble countertop
A beautiful mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, a white stone countertop and backsplash, and open shelving
A mid-century modern kitchen with dark stained cabinets, a richly stained island, white stone countertops and a white thin tile backsplash
Colors and equipment
Mid-century modern kitchens feature muted colors and rich wood accents that provide a warm, earthy feel. Typically, pastel tones or bright, vibrant colors are added in the mid-century inspired color palette to brighten the space and give the kitchen an invigorating, cheerful atmosphere.
One of the key features of a mid-century modern kitchen is an eye-catching backsplash. Depending on your space, a custom splashback can be a focal point of the kitchen design, tying the overall design and color palette together. After all, retro accessories and lights are the perfect nod to the classic look. Get inspired to create your Mid-Century Modern eye candy!
A mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, a white and navy island, white stone countertops, pendant lamps and views
A mid-century modern kitchen with plywood cabinets, a green thin tile backsplash, white countertops and white fixtures
A mid-century modern kitchen with richly stained cabinets, a geometric tile backsplash, white stone countertops, and a printed rug
A mid-century modern kitchen with white cabinets, a white Moroccan tile backsplash, a navy kitchen island, white stools, pendant lamps and potted plants
A handsome mid-century modern kitchen with richly stained cabinets, colorful drawers and storage units, and a neutral tile backsplash
A sophisticated mid-century modern kitchen with dark gray cabinets, white stone open shelving, a backsplash and countertops
A sophisticated mid-century modern kitchen with white and light stained cabinets, a window backsplash, a sculptural island, and gold accents
A stylish mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, white stone countertops, a green thin tile backsplash, black fixtures and potted plants
a stylish kitchen with practical stone worktops
An inviting mid-century modern kitchen in pale green, a skylight, stained wood ceiling and white stone countertops
an airy mid-century modern kitchen with light stained cabinets, a white kitchen island with open shelves, a green tile backsplash, and pendant lamps
An inviting mid-century modern kitchen with lime green and white cabinets, a white stone backsplash and countertops, and gold accents