As the adage goes, what’s old is new again. And when it comes to kitchen design – vintage is having a moment.

Vintage inspired elements are showing up in kitchen designs of all sizes and styles. These familiar details bring a sense of timelessness to your kitchen, creating a warm, relaxed and cozy feeling. But you don’t need to be tied to a traditional kitchen design to enjoy the benefits.

“Kitchen designs are embracing an eclectic spirit more than ever,” says Normandy Design Manager Ashley Noethe. “This mixing of colors, styles and aesthetics is creating deeply personal, highly functional kitchens, that make working and entertaining easier and more enjoyable. The incorporation of vintage inspired solutions and aesthetics aligns perfectly with this trend, with many elements feeling so natural, you would be forgiven if you overlooked their vintage roots.”

Apron front sinks may be the first and most obvious vintage kitchen throwback, although today’s models can be made of a wide variety of materials from stainless steel to cast iron. “You can decide how modern or classic you want an apron front sink to look,” notes Ashley. An apron front sink, also known as a farmhouse sink, is often a single large basin which makes washing large dishes and platters a much easier affair. “Characterized by its visible front panel, apron front sinks have been finding their way into kitchens of all styles for quite some time now.”

Small touches, which may be less obvious at first glance, can reinforce the aesthetic and function of vintage design. “Drying grooves that are cut into the countertop or antique knobs and hardware can be easily overlooked, but they lean into that well-earned vintage reputation for practicality and dependability,” says Ashley.

But if you’re in love with the look of vintage as much as the functionality, there are plenty of ways to go big. “Statement appliances were a consistent feature of kitchen design for many decades,” shares Ashley. “Whether through color, style, or level of detail, a statement appliance can anchor the look of your new kitchen, ensuring that your love of vintage details does not go unnoticed.”

Tile patterns, cabinet door styles, and the interplay between color and material can also take cues from kitchens of last century. “The way you choose to emphasize or incorporate vintage elements into your kitchen determines how your space reflects your personal style,” says Ashley. “Modern with a vintage nod, funky and eclectic, or a full-scale embrace of traditional design – you get to decide how much or how little vintage kitchen elements show up in your home.”

Blending together all your favorite things into a kitchen design that feels just right is just one of the Normandy Designers’ superpowers. Set up a time to talk with Ashley or one of the Normandy Designers about your new kitchen. You can also find inspiration for vintage kitchens, modern kitchens, and everything in between in our photo gallery or on Instagram, Facebook or Pinterest.