Retro kitchen design from 1955 was all about making bold statements with color and pattern. A classic combination of hues, appliances, and materials gave homeowners the opportunity to add their own unique touches to their kitchen design. A popular choice for this decade was light brown paneling and white cupboards with dark accents. For surfaces, smooth countertops were common, paired with accessories such as distressed cabinets and open shelving. Retro tile flooring, vibrant wallpapers, and brightly painted countertops gave homeowners the perfect setting to showcase their style. Lighting was a key component of stylish and functional retro kitchen design. Hanging kitchen lights with exposed wires with exposed bulbs, along with under-cabinet lighting and art-deco style sconces, were common features. The era also marked the dawn of the age of home appliances, and those looking for a touch of retro nostalgia could choose pieces with a more classic look. Refrigerators, ovens, and microwaves, whether standalone or built into the cabinet units, all came in a range of vintage designs.1955 Retro Kitchen Design
Famously known for its resilience and affordability, Formica was a popular kitchen material in 1955. There was an incredible variety of colors and patterns available, allowing homeowners to choose a color scheme that reflected their own personal preference for vintage flair. Countertops, tabletops, cupboards, and general joinery were all made from the plastic material. Formica’s tough and durable nature ensured that it was resistant to stains and scratches, allowing these surfaces to last for years. It was also easy to clean and quick to install, adding to its appeal. However, one downside of Formica kitchen designs is that the material does not age well due to fading. Additionally, it can easily enough be damaged by heat or burning items, and is not ideal for kitchens with high levels of moisture in the air.1955 Formica Kitchen Design
In 1955, many homeowners made a statement with their kitchen design by looking to vintage pieces for the décor. Cupboards and furniture were made with heavier wood, featuring intricate designs and dark finishes. Knobs and handles with curved edges added a touch of nostalgia. Islands and breakfast bars included cool patterns and textures, closely associated with the 1940s, such as mosaic tiles or paisley. Pendant lights, particularly those with baroque details, completed the look. For a stripped back look, steel was a popular choice for kitchen furniture. This allowed homeowners to combine a neutral palette with hard-wearing, timeless surfaces. Paired with lighter pastel colors on the walls and ceilings, these kitchen designs were perfect for lovers of mid-century minimalism. Accessories, such as potted plants and cabinets with Art-Deco-style panels beneath the countertops, couldn't be overlooked in 1955.1955 Vintage Kitchen Design
Brown and white kitchen design was favoured by many homeowners in 1955. Paint colours for the walls played a key role in transforming the kitchen space. Achieving a balance between dark and light is essential, with white being the predominant colour in the room, and brown adding texture, interest, and depth. Adding in other shades, such as turquoise and yellow, gave a classic 1950s feel without overwhelming the space. For surfaces, a range of materials were available to choose from. Countertops were often made from Formica, although more modern and luxurious options such as marble and granite were also common. Cabinets and cupboards featured two-tone finishes, with clear glass doors letting in more light. When combined with the industrial-style steel appliances, a warm and inviting atmosphere was created.1955 Brown and White Kitchen Design
Bring something different to your kitchen design with a yellow color palette. Homeowners in 1955 used bright and cheery shades of yellow to inspire fun and energy into their kitchen designs. Yellow walls were paired with softer accents such as dusky pinks, blues, and greens, while vibrant mid-century-style furniture, accessories, and appliances added to the mix. When it came to surfaces, laminate and Formica countertops and tabletops were a popular choice. Kitchens often featured cabinets with embossed finishes, and they were sometimes painted yellow as well. Tile floors were common, allowing homeowners to express their style with colorful and playful patterns. Additionally, metal details in bright shades of yellow—think, window handles and cupboard knobs—were a simple way to tie the design together.1955 Yellow Kitchen Design
In 1955, the yacht-style kitchen was inspired by naval décor and the grandeur of luxury boats. A deep blue was the classic choice for colour schemes, creating a sense of calm within the kitchen. Greys and whites were then added to the palette to lighten the space and provide contrast. Practicality was also a key factor in this style of kitchen design. Homeowners opted for surfaces that were water-resistant, such as wood and laminate. Open shelving was a popular pick, allowing for ventilation of kitchen items and convenient storage. Cupboards and cabinets were designed to reduce the effects of cooking smells. Bespoke appliances, with brass or copper finishings, were common fixtures. Overall, the design was an adventurous take on an age-old interior style.1955 Yacht-Style Kitchen Design
Primary color kitchens were all the rage among 1955 homeowners looking for a statement kitchen design. Red and yellow were the most popular colors, and when used in combination, they created an energized atmosphere that was perfect for spending time with friends and family. Black and white accents, from the furniture to the appliances, helped to balance out the bold colour palette. With primary color kitchens, it was all about creating a cheerful and inviting atmosphere. Homeowners often chose wood countertops and cabinets to lend a warm and rustic feel to the space. Tiles floors featuring intricate design patterns were also in favour, helping to inject some personality into the kitchen. They also offered a practical solution to standing up to the demands of high-traffic kitchens.1955 Primary Kitchen Design
Living in a small space didn’t have to limit a homeowner’s choice of kitchen design in 1955. With the right balance of colors, surfaces, and furnishings, small kitchen design could look inviting and luxurious. Compact appliances, such as cooktops and microwave combination ovens, made the most of available space. Units with multiple functions, such as oven-fridge-freezer combinations, were popular too. For surfaces, Formica countertops were a common feature, along with stainless steel backsplashes. Homeowners also opted to stick to light colors for their walls, furniture, and cupboards, such as ivory, beige, and muted greys. Bold patterns were reserved for kitchen accessories, such as statement appliances and lighting.1955 Small Kitchen Design
The long, narrow shape of the galley kitchen has been around since the 1920s. In 1955, many homeowners opted for this style of kitchen to make the most of the limited space available. Galley kitchens featured two working areas on either side of the kitchen, with an island in the center. Work zones were balanced with a mix of appliances, cupboards, and open shelves placed at head height. With this style of kitchen, it was important to pick the right colours for the walls and surfaces. Commonly, homeowners used light tones including white, beige, and ivory to help the space feel larger and brighter. Decorative panels on cupboards, distressed finishes, and cabinets with intricate floral patterns were also used to add a touch of nostalgia. 1955 Galley Kitchen Design
For a classic yet classic look, many homeowners preferred traditional kitchen design in 1955. The materials used were generally wood and metal, with dark colors, such as black and brown, chosen for the paneling and cabinets. Furniture, from the breakfast bar to the kitchen island, featured detailed carvings and decorative elements. When it came to surfaces, polished granite or marble was often chosen. Anchored by the more traditional material, the colors and finishes used often incorporated a range of hues. Faux leather wallpapers, as well as porcelain and ceramic tiles, were incorporated into the design, helping to soften the edges of the room. Additionally, old-style details such as ceramic tiles, wooden counters, and elaborate pendant lighting fixtures completed the look.1955 Traditional Kitchen Design
Glam kitchen design from 1955 focused on luxury and exclusivity. It was all about making a bold statement with colorful statement pieces and bold accents. Wallpapers, fabric wall coverings, and bold patterns set the tone, while metallic details like steel shelves, bronze wall panels, and glass-backed cupboards added a touch of modernity to the design. Cabinetry, in particular, was designed with attention to detail. Bold shapes and sleek lacquered finishes were paired with high-end appliances, such as fridges, ovens, and microwaves. Dark countertops or marble surfaces were often chosen for the sink area. Meanwhile, kitchen islands featured glossy tops juxtaposed with industrial-style stools, creating a unique sense of balance. Completing the look were an array of modern pendant lights.1955 Glam Kitchen Design