10 Mid-Century Modern Kitchen Ideas

Trends are cyclical — what’s cool now mightn’t be in 10 years, only to make a comeback in another 20. That’s exactly what’s happened with mid-century modern (MCM). This decor style, popularised in the 40s to 60s, is back in a big way. 

But while mid-century chairs, TV units and bedroom furniture still hold up, kitchens from the 50s are usually outdated. MCM kitchens take the best parts of the mid-century and sub in new appliances, floors and benchtops. There are many ways to bring mid-century modern style to your kitchen, so we've come up with some ideas to kickstart your reno.

What is a mid-century modern kitchen?

Sometimes called the "golden age of design", MCM is characterised by clean lines, simple shapes and function over form. This era was a reaction against the ornate styles of the past, embracing a more minimalist and practical aesthetic.

Here are some key features of a mid-century modern kitchen:

• Clean lines and simple shapes: A hallmark of the style, avoiding fussy details.
• Function and practicality: Kitchens are designed to be efficient and user-friendly.
• Warm woods: Teak, walnut and mahogany are particularly popular.
• Neutral colours: A palette of whites, blacks, greens, oranges and browns.
• Open layouts: The kitchen should lead into the living/dining room.
• Open shelving: Crockery and glassware are usually on display.
• Natural materials: Timber, stone and chrome are common.
• Natural light: Large windows and skylights are often built in.

While mid-century modern kitchens have a certain look, they're also very versatile. You can create a warm and inviting space or a cool-toned, minimalist one, depending on your preferences.

10 timeless mid-century modern kitchen designs 

Here they are — 10 design ideas to help you execute your mid-century modern kitchen renovation.

1. Let panelling show

Home renovators often cringe at the sight of panelling, but in this case, it could work in your favour. If your kitchen has original wood panelling, consider yourself lucky — it's a beloved feature of mid-century modern homes. Don't cover it up with paint; stain and seal it. This will keep it fresh and clean in even the most chaotic kitchens. 

2. Limit your colours

Mid-century modern design is known for its clean look — part of this is through a limited colour palette. Pick a base colour like white or brown timber and introduce a couple of accent colours. Popular mid-century choices include olive green, shiny chrome or bright orange, but go with whatever you’d like. 

3. Mix in metallics

Teak often steals the spotlight when we think about mid-century modern style, but let’s show some love to chrome. From the iconic Wassily chair to countless other pieces, chrome was a sleek, industrial counterpoint to organic forms and natural materials. Its durability and reflective qualities made it a practical and stylish choice for everything from furniture frames to tapware.

4. Try open shelving

Open shelving was a common feature in mid-century modern homes. It’s all about open-plan living and functionality. By removing cabinet doors, you create a sense of spaciousness and allow your favourite dishes and glassware to become a part of the decor. Try to keep the shelves organised and aesthetic, even if that means using baskets or bowls to store smaller items.

5. Add vintage accessories

Vintage accessories can add character to your mid-century kitchen. Look for items like a retro coffee maker or mid-century ceramics and glassware. The kitchen above features a Sputnik star — a piece many home decorators at the time loved. Put your accessories on display on open shelves or on your counters (just make sure you don’t over clutter).

6. Refresh your backsplash

Your backsplash is a huge part of your kitchen design. Choose between the colour route or something more natural. If you’re a fan of colour, this is your chance to add in that mid-century green. Newport Gloss Subway Sage Green Tiles or Coogee Antique Green Kit Kat Mosaic Tiles are some of our favourites. 

A more natural approach would mean choosing tiles that blend in with their surrounds. For this, we love our Thirroul Travertine Look Matte Subway Tile or Noosa Gloss Zellige Taupe Tile.

7. Go all white

White mid-century modern kitchens make this style more approachable. It’s versatile enough to work as a foundation for mid-century’s open, airy vibe. In this kitchen, we’re seeing that in practice — a small, single-wall kitchen feels bigger thanks to white cabinets, counters and benchtops. Pair it with functional yet architectural dining furniture to drive home that mid-century feel.

8. Hand-pick furniture

Some things are better to buy new, but in the case of mid-century furniture, old is the way to go. Look for counter stools, dining sets and even hutches by mid-century designers — Chiswell and Parker are stamps to look out for. But if Facebook Marketplace and antique shops aren’t for you, look for new furniture with clean lines, tapered legs and simple shapes. 

9. Combine old and new

Just because mid-century is a well-defined decor style, doesn’t mean you have to stick to the rules. Mix old and new wherever it suits you — that can mean vintage accessories with modern appliances and cabinetry, or retro appliances on a minimalist backdrop. This approach prevents your kitchen from looking too dated or cookie-cutter.

10. Experiment with shapes

Mid-century modern design is all about the intentional use of shape. You’re probably used to seeing clean, geometric forms, but don’t overlook curves. The key is balance — combine straight lines and soft curves to nail the mid-century brief. For example, simple cabinets or drawers with a softly curved drawer pull.

Designing your mid-century kitchen