Revived Retro: 5 Once-Outdated Kitchen Designs Making a Big Comeback

Before beginning your new kitchen renovation, make sure to read this first.

For some time, kitchens have been leaning towards contemporary, streamlined, and uncluttered aesthetics. However, current trends are shifting slightly to incorporate more warmth and personality. Time-honored design features from earlier eras are resurging, demonstrating that the classics can be reintroduced with a modern touch. Below are five formerly “obsolete” kitchen design styles that are experiencing a resurgence, as noted by industry professionals.

Meet the Experts


  • Aaron Kessler

    , television presenter and specialist in home furnishings and decoration at ShopHQ

  • Morgan Blinn

    , serving as the head designer at Rumor Designs

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Unlacquered Brass

As stated by Aaron Kessler, the on-screen television presenter and specialist in home furnishings and decor,
ShopHQ
Unlacquered brass is experiencing a resurgence, and he is quite excited about this trend. He considers it one of his top picks for kitchen designs currently because of these two compelling factors: “It displays patina and history exceptionally well and requires minimal maintenance.”

Remember that unlacquered brass and lacquered brass have distinct appearances. Lacquered brass boasts a glossy, polished appearance, while unlacquered brass is more muted and matte. Although unlacquered brass is currently trending, if you prefer a brighter, classically elegant look, feel free to opt for lacquered brass in your kitchen design elements such as drawer pulls or an antique-style tap to enhance your kitchen basin.

Deep Colors

Although white and lighter shades were prevalent in kitchens over the last ten years, Kessler informs me that dark, intense hues are now resurging. He notes, “Deep colors, darker undertones, and luxurious wood elements are returning to kitchen designs. These aesthetics complement areas brimming with character and history—ideal for hosting gatherings.”

Therefore, feel free to put in dark wooden cabinets (or darken your light wood cabinets with staining) and consider painting your kitchen walls a rich eggplant hue or adding dark navy cushions to the stools around your island.

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Lamps

Kessler suggests that incorporating a tiny light beneath your kitchen cabinets can add an attractive and distinctive element to the area. He explains, “Using a compact table lamp is ideal for truly personalizing your living space and providing a cozy atmosphere.” Additionally, he emphasizes that including petite paintings or art pieces behind the splashback will create depth and layers within the room.

Vibrant Appliance and Pipe Choices

Morgan Blinn, the head designer at Rumor Designs, informs me that colored appliances and sinks are regaining popularity. “We’ve observed numerous instances of this trend, particularly as brands such as Kohler reintroduce their classic hues from the 1970s, which are now trendy once more.” (Kohler has brought back shades like Teal, Fresh Green, and Aspen Green for its lineup.)
Heritage Colors collection
.)

Remember that these hues represent a significant shift away from the more common stainless steel or neutral-toned appliances. Therefore, Blinn recommends selecting these colors based on genuine personal preference rather than following fleeting fashion trends. “Just as with every other design choice, avoid adopting them merely to stay current. Instead, make deliberate decisions and embrace these trends only if they resonate with your taste.”

White Appliances

If there’s one trend that both professional designers and aficionados likely didn’t anticipate returning, it’s white appliances. Given how long stainless steel has dominated the market, this shift might seem surprising. However, according to Blinn, white appliances have made a comeback but with a fresh twist. Contemporary manufacturers have successfully revamped the appearance of these once-commonplace white designs, giving them an upscale touch through features such as golden accents.

Read the initial article on
Real Simple

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