Aqua in a 1950s or 1960s kitchen can be striking.
A vintage kitchen reflects a certain time period or popular style. Usually -- but not always -- it's the time period when the house was built. Sometimes older houses have kitchens that have been updated several times over the years and no longer look or feel like the rest of the house. You may have bought a home that has one of those kitchens, and you may want to give the kitchen an older feel without undertaking a total overhaul. You can do that be painting the walls, updating fabrics and adding retro accessories.
Instructions
1. Collect photographs and magazine clippings of kitchens decorated in the vintage style that is similar to your home. Identify key pieces in each photograph that you like and dislike. If the staged photo feels too busy or too stark, make notes. These clippings will help you identify the colors and features you favor.
2. Develop a color palette for the kitchen. You may have a number of colors in your kitchen right now. Decide if you want to change the colors of the appliances, cabinets, counters and floor. Once you decide whether you want to change any of these elements or keep what you have, collect samples of each final color element in a small box so that you can take them to stores when you make your purchases.
3. Take your sample box to a fabric and paint store to purchase paint samples and acquire fabric swatches for curtains or cushion covers. Return home and paint several large spots on each kitchen wall to test the colors you are considering. Observe these spots as the paint dries and at various times during the day, when lighting conditions are different.
4. Paint your walls the color you have selected and choose your fabrics. You can use paint treatments and patterns that were commonly used in the era your home was built. Ironically, your colors and patterns will have a vintage look, but the new elements will give your kitchen a fresh feel.
5. Select larger art for any substantial wall area. One significant piece of art can often influence the entire room. Select accent pieces that are appropriate for the era you are recreating. In a 40-year-old ranch, a '60s wall clock, and aqua counter appliances can give the kitchen a vintage feel. Consider arts and crafts pottery and a patterned wool area rug for the kitchen of a century home.
