Anyone who appreciates good design knows that the kitchen is never solely a utilitarian space.
Often, all it takes is the right mix of accessories to take the hardworking heart of the home from so-so to sophisticated. Infusing vintage items into the mix, whether it's a nostalgic farmhouse collectable or an old-fashioned kitchen gadget, will take your space to the next level.
Ahead, secondhand pros reveal eight vintage kitchen items, from serveware to furniture, that are currently having a moment again and will work wonders to elevate your cooking space.
Fruit- and veggie-inspired accents
Don't be afraid to weave items that are meant to resemble food into your kitchen, notes Logan Taylor, the founder of Logan Taylor Antiques, who cites cabbageware as one prime example.
"One of my favourite pieces I've ever found at an antique mall is my asparagus lamp, which I have on my kitchen counter—it was one of those things I knew I had to have as soon as I saw it," she says. Logan notes that to some, this type of piece may appear "kitschy," but in her view, it's a welcome addition to any cooking space. "I think we are craving more whimsical-looking elements as a whole to create some balance from the minimalist decorating movement," she explains.
Vintage china
Logan has also seen an increasing number of people incorporating vintage china into their everyday tablescapes.
"The time and attention our grandmas put into setting a Tuesday night dinner table is an art that has been long forgotten, but we're realising the value and magic that it brought to an ordinary family dinner night," she says. "A beautiful life is made by putting intention into the little details of our everyday routines."
Berry bowls and ramekins
Taylor Carver, founder of I Need a Bigger House, has received an influx of requests for petite bowls between 10cm and 13cm in diameter as of late.
"I find they are an incredibly versatile set to have in the kitchen — just the right size for cocktail snacks, an after-dinner scoop of ice cream, or fresh strawberries, of course," she says. These trending bowls tend to be made out of pressed glass, ceramic, or porcelain.
"Popular designs include fruit motifs and hand-painted florals. My favourite pattern is this Lily of the Valley set (pictured above) produced by Hazel Atlas in the 1940s and ’50s."
Copper cookware
Copper kitchenware will continue to rise in popularity, says Emi Deilus, founder of The Lainey Collective.
"Copper brings so much warmth and character to a kitchen in a way that modern stainless steel often can't," she says, noting that many people choose to display such pieces as visible decor. "Homeowners are moving away from all-white, modern kitchens and are embracing a more collected, lived-in space."
Don't be shy about pairing copper accents with other metals in the kitchen, either, says Emi. "Copper pairs beautifully with vintage brass and silver, which have already been trending for some time."
Colourful stand mixers
Keep an eye peeled for vintage American Hamilton Beach mixers made in the 1950s and 1960s, says Kelly Riley, founder of Lakeland.
Kelly has noted a recent rise in their popularity. "They are all metal with an adjustable bowl feature, sleek designs, and fun colours," she says. "These are appliances that can sit on a counter and function well but also add to your kitchen's overall aesthetic."
Sea-inspired serveware
This summer, why not pay homage to the coast? "Sea-inspired serveware is having a moment because it blends history, nature, and entertaining in a way that feels both timeless and fresh," says Kelly Vujic, founder of Vintage Alchemist.
"From mother-of-pearl flatware and shell-shaped dishes and spoons to antique sardine boxes and caviar servers, these pieces bring history, character, and a touch of old-world glamour to the table."
Despite their formal origins, these pieces can seamlessly play a part in day-to-day hosting. "They're beautiful conversation pieces that make even the simplest foods and everyday gatherings feel a little more special."
Rustic kitchen furniture
When it comes to larger kitchen items, furniture pieces in farmhouse and primitive styles —such as vintage American Hoosier cabinets and pie safes — are having a major moment, according to April Marcell, co-owner of Three Daisies Vintage. "People really enjoy mixing vintage and new," she says.
Vintage baskets
Paige Kontrafouris, founder of Paige Kontrafouris Interiors, has noticed a growing trend of vintage baskets making their way into the kitchen — and not solely for functional purposes. They’ve "become an essential design element in the kitchen," she says.
"They add texture and warmth while serving a practical purpose, whether they’re holding produce, linens, cookbooks, or pantry essentials. Baskets offer an easy way to soften a space and bring in an organic, collected feel."
Read more on vintage and antiques:
- The UK's best vintage and antiques fairs to visit this summer
- 7 creative ways to decorate with vintage enamelware
- 7 antiques for small spaces that are as functional as they are stylish
Read more about vintage and antiques in our CL specials, available here.
Sarah Lyon is a New York City-based freelancer who produces interior design, travel and lifestyle content. Her work is featured in outlets including Apartment Therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post and The New York Times. Plus, her personal spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz and more.
