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Nail the Mid Century Modern Kitchen Look

Interior design for a comfy home's living and kitchen area in the modern mid century style. Generative AI
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel and are looking for inspiration, consider mid century design. Mid century modern style is a popular choice for homeowners who want a timeless, classic look that is also functional and efficient. Mid century design elements are characterized by clean lines, simple shapes, and a focus on functionality. In this article, we’ll explore the mid century style kitchen and offer tips on how to create the look in your own home.

What is Mid Century
style kitchen?

Mid century style kitchen is a blend of modern and classic design that was popular in the 1950s and 1960s. This style incorporates clean lines, geometric shapes, and natural materials. The mid century modern kitchen is a minimalist design that emphasizes functionality, with a focus on practicality and simplicity. The goal is to create an uncluttered, sleek space that is both stylish and functional.

To achieve the mid century modern kitchen look, you can incorporate materials like wood, metal, and glass. You can also choose colors that are muted or natural, such as olive green, beige, and brown. For a pop of color, consider bright red, orange, or yellow.

How do I make my kitchen cabinets look mid century?

One of the most significant elements of a mid century modern kitchen is the cabinetry. To achieve the look, you can choose cabinets with clean lines and simple hardware. Avoid ornate and elaborate designs and opt for sleek and minimalistic styles instead.

Flat-panel cabinets are an excellent choice for mid century kitchens. You can also consider open shelving to showcase your dishes and cookware.

If you have existing cabinets and want to update them, consider painting them a neutral color or a bold shade to create a statement. Dark woods, like teak, walnut, and mahogany, were popular in mid century design, so consider using those materials as well. You can also update the hardware to incorporate mid century modern hardware ideas. Choose simple, clean-lined pulls and knobs in metal or wood.

Our Favorite Mid-Century Modern Cabinet Doors Styles

Quincy Cabinet Door
Laredo Cabinet Door

To complete the mid century look, consider adding crown molding or a chair rail. These design elements can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your kitchen. 

Crown molding is a classic design feature. It can be used to highlight the tops of cabinets. Meanwhile, chair rail can be used to create a defined line between the upper and lower portions of your walls.

High quality cherry wood cabinets with bronze cabinet hardware & glass tile mosaic backsplash in contemporary upscale home kitchen
Wooden Textured Cabinet
handles on the kitchen cabinet
Cropped view of woman hand open cabinet door, pulling handle, standing at white modern kitchen in house with drawers under countertop

What is the best kitchen hardware for a mid century kitchen?

Choosing the right kitchen hardware is crucial when designing a mid century modern kitchen. The goal is to find hardware that is both functional and complements the overall design aesthetic.

For a mid century modern kitchen, it’s best to choose hardware that is sleek and minimalistic. Simple, clean lines and geometric shapes are perfect for achieving the desired look. Metal hardware is a popular choice for mid-century modern kitchens, with options such as brushed nickel, chrome, and brass.

Wooden hardware can add warmth to the space and works well with cabinets made of natural wood. Glass hardware can also be used to create a visually interesting contrast against wooden cabinets.

Handles that are easy to grip and open are essential for a functional kitchen. Additionally, make sure the hardware fits the cabinet doors and drawers correctly to ensure ease of use.

To complement mid century modern kitchen cabinets, choose hardware that is simple and streamlined. Flat-panel cabinets work well with linear or bar-style handles, while round knobs can be used on cabinets with rounded edges.

When choosing hardware for a mid-century modern kitchen, keep the overall design aesthetic in mind. Sleek, minimalistic pieces made of metal, wood, or glass can add a touch of sophistication and functionality to the space. The right hardware, paired with the right cabinets, can create a beautiful mid-century modern kitchen that is both functional and visually appealing.

Is mid century modern
going out of style?

Mid century modern design has been around for over half a century, and it has proven to be a timeless style that has evolved over time. Although it has gone through some changes, it remains a popular design choice for homeowners who want a sleek, sophisticated look that is both functional and stylish.

While it’s difficult to predict design trends, mid century modern kitchens continue to be in high demand. The focus on functionality and clean lines fits well with the current minimalist and sustainable living trends. If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, and you’re interested in mid century modern design, you can rest assured that it’s a classic style that is unlikely to go out of fashion anytime soon.

What colors are best in a mid century style kitchen?

Mid century modern kitchens typically use a color palette that is both muted and natural. This can include shades of beige, brown, olive green, and white. However, pops of bright, bold colors like red, orange, or yellow can add a touch of whimsy and playfulness to the space. Consider adding a bright accent wall or incorporating colorful appliances like a vintage-style refrigerator or mixer.

Another popular mid century modern color is aqua. This shade of blue-green was a popular color during the mid century era, and it can add a playful and retro vibe to your kitchen. Aqua looks great on cabinets, countertops, and even tile.

When selecting colors for your mid century kitchen, keep in mind that the overall goal is to create a space that is calming and functional. Avoid colors that are too bold or busy, and instead choose colors that are soft and inviting. You can use different shades of the same color to add depth and interest to your space. Consider using a light color for your walls and cabinets and a darker shade for your countertops and flooring.

The mid century modern kitchen is a timeless style that has stood the test of time. It’s a design choice that emphasizes functionality, clean lines, and natural materials. If you’re looking to remodel your kitchen, consider incorporating mid century design elements like flat-panel cabinets, minimalistic hardware, and pops of color.

With the right choices, you can create a mid century modern kitchen that is both functional and stylish. Whether you opt for a classic look or a more modern twist on the style, the mid century modern kitchen is a design choice that will never go out of style.