23 Mid Century Modern Kitchen Worth Hunting For

You know that kitchen board you’ve been secretly adding to for 18 months? The one with all the wood cabinets and brass pulls that makes your current white-everything space feel like a dentist’s office?

Your morning coffee would actually taste better in a space with walnut grain and those perfect atomic-era pendant lights—the kind that makes you feel like you’re hosting Don Draper for brunch. These 23 mid-century kitchens prove that sometimes the best design happened 60 years ago.

Atomic Ranch Style: Bold Geometric Patterns With Starburst Backsplashes

Remember those retro diners with their boomerang tables and eye-catching patterns? That’s the energy here, but elevated for your grown-up kitchen. This style brings that same playful confidence your favorite vintage dress does—instantly recognizable, never boring. It’s basically the kitchen version of those starburst mirrors everyone’s hunting for at estate sales.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut-stained flat-panel cabinets with tapered legs
• Terrazzo countertops with colorful flecks
• Hexagonal tiles in mint or turquoise
• Cork or checkered vinyl flooring
• Sputnik chandelier or globe pendant lights
• Atomic-print kitchen runners from Society6
• Wire fruit baskets in brass finish
• Vintage-style kitchen scale in pastel colors

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Paint lower cabinets in Benjamin Moore “Aegean Teal” (2136-40) and uppers in “White Dove” (OC-17) for that classic two-tone atomic look
• Accent wall magic: Create a feature wall with Sherwin Williams “Coral Reef” (6606) behind open shelving, or go bold with “Tangerine Dream” (2012-30) from Benjamin Moore

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens or breakfast nooks

Danish Modern Design: Teak Cabinetry With Minimalist Hardware

Danish teak cabinetry is like that vintage leather bag that gets better with age—warm, sophisticated, and somehow works with everything. This style brings the same cozy-but-refined energy as your favorite specialty coffee shop, where natural wood meets clean lines. It’s what makes your kitchen feel collected rather than decorated.

Shop The Look:

1. Teak veneer flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
2. White Carrara marble countertops with subtle gray veining
3. White subway tiles (3×6) with matching white grout
4. Light oak or bamboo flooring in wide planks
5. Brass globe pendant lights (mid-century inspired)
6. Natural jute runner rug with black border (2.5’x7′)
7. Teak wood cutting board set with stand
8. Woven rattan storage baskets for pantry organization

DIY Paint Transformation

• Lower cabinet refresh: Paint existing bases in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore HC-168) for that perfect contrast against teak uppers. The deep charcoal grounds the warmth without going full black.
• Wall companion colors: Try “Cloud White” (Benjamin Moore OC-130) for main walls with “Pale Oak” (Benjamin Moore OC-20) on the breakfast nook wall—creates depth without competing with wood tones.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and closed floor plans

Palm Springs Paradise: Floor-to-Ceiling Windows and Desert Color Palettes

Picture your kitchen as that perfectly curated desert Airbnb you saved on Instagram—where natural light floods through massive windows and warm terracotta meets sage green. This style brings vacation vibes home daily, making morning smoothies feel like poolside brunch in Coachella Valley.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
• White terrazzo countertops with amber chips
• Terracotta hexagon floor tiles (6-inch)
• Floor-to-ceiling window treatments (if adding)
• Globe brass pendant lights (West Elm style)
• Jute runner rug with geometric pattern (2.5’x8′)
• Woven rattan storage baskets set
• Ceramic planters in warm earth tones

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinets with Benjamin Moore “Adobe Beige” (1128) for lower cabinets and “White Dove” (OC-17) for uppers—creates that two-tone desert modern look without full replacement.
• Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) on main walls with an accent wall in “Rosemary” (SW 6187) behind open shelving for that subtle sage moment.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Homes with natural light access

Eichler-Inspired Space: Post-And-Beam Construction With Cork Flooring

That California modernist kitchen your favorite design blogger keeps posting? It’s basically the architectural equivalent of your go-to minimalist wardrobe—clean lines that never go out of style. Post-and-beam construction creates those dramatic ceiling moments everyone screenshots, while cork flooring feels like walking on your yoga mat.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut slab cabinet doors with cutout handles
• White Corian countertops with integrated drainboard
• Heath Ceramics dimensional tiles in sage
• Cork flooring tiles (natural or gray-toned)
• Globe pendant lights with brass fixtures
• Woven jute runner (2.5’x8′)
• Teak wood cutting board collection
• Wire mesh produce baskets

DIY Paint Transformation

• Ceiling beams: Strip existing beams and stain with Varathane “Kona” for that authentic dark wood contrast against white ceilings—the same drama as a bold eyeliner.
• Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 on upper cabinets paired with “Urbane Bronze” SW 7048 on lowers creates that two-tone look flooding your TikTok feed.

Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Ranch-style homes with existing open layouts

Scandinavian Simplicity: White Oak Cabinets and Matte Black Fixtures

Think of this as your favorite minimalist Instagram account come to life—where every morning feels like you’re making pour-over coffee in a Copenhagen café. The white oak and black combo is basically the kitchen version of wearing all-neutral outfits that somehow always look put-together. It’s the style that makes meal prep feel intentional rather than chaotic.

Shop The Look:

1. White oak slab cabinet doors (IKEA Askersund or custom)
2. Caesarstone Pure White quartz countertops
3. White subway tile backsplash (3×6 matte finish)
4. Light oak luxury vinyl plank flooring
5. Matte black track lighting system
6. Jute and cotton striped runner (Ruggable washable)
7. Bamboo drawer dividers set from The Container Store
8. Matte black floating shelves with brackets

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 in satin finish for existing cabinets—warmer than stark white but still reads as clean Scandinavian
• Wall transformation: Farrow & Ball “Strong White” No. 2001 for main walls paired with Clare “Current Mood” on the breakfast nook wall for subtle contrast

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and compact spaces

Space Age Kitchen: Curved Islands and Chrome Dome Pendant Lights

Remember those retro diners with swooping curves and shiny chrome everything? That’s your kitchen’s destiny, but make it chic enough for your Instagram grid. This style brings Jetsons-meets-reality energy that transforms morning routines into something actually enjoyable.

Shop The Look:

• Glossy white lacquer cabinets with curved corners
• Solid surface countertops in bright white Corian
• Hexagonal white porcelain tiles (matte finish)
• Polished concrete flooring with high-gloss sealant
• Chrome dome pendant lights (oversized spherical)
• Round chrome bar stools with white vinyl seats
• Curved chrome paper towel holder
• Atomic-style starburst wall clock

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Prime existing cabinets and spray paint with Benjamin Moore “Super White” PM-1 in high-gloss finish for that authentic lacquered look
• Wall magic: Paint walls in Farrow & Ball “Pavilion Gray” No. 242 with ceiling in Benjamin Moore “Chrome Green” 2136-20 for subtle retro flair

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and corner spaces

California Contemporary: Indoor-Outdoor Flow With Sliding Glass Walls

That breezy California lifestyle where your kitchen flows seamlessly into your patio? It’s basically the architectural equivalent of wearing linen pants—effortlessly chic and perfect for entertaining. Those sliding glass walls transform meal prep into an indoor-outdoor experience that makes every dinner party feel like a vacation.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut veneer flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
• White Caesarstone countertops with subtle gray veining
• Terracotta or neutral porcelain floor tiles (24×24)
• White subway tiles with vertical stack pattern
• Track lighting system with adjustable spots
• Natural jute area rug (5’x8′) from Ruggable
• Bamboo drawer organizers set from The Container Store
• Ceramic planters in white and terracotta tones

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinets refresh: Strip existing doors and apply Minwax Natural stain for that authentic walnut look, or paint lower cabinets in Benjamin Moore “Wrought Iron” (2124-10) while keeping uppers light
• Wall palette: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) for main walls with Clare Paint “Current Mood” on the accent wall facing the glass doors

Budget Range: $25,000-$40,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Homes with patio access or garden views

Retro Futuristic Layout: Orange Laminate Counters and Bubble Chair Seating

That vintage Jetsons-meets-Palm-Springs aesthetic is having its moment, and honestly, it’s like wearing a bold vintage dress to brunch—guaranteed conversation starter. Orange laminate brings that same energy as your favorite retro filter, while bubble chairs give breakfast the same vibe as your local mid-century coffee spot.

Shop The Look:

• White lacquered cabinets with curved edges
• Orange laminate countertops (Formica or Wilsonart)
• White hexagon tiles with orange grout accents
• Terrazzo flooring with orange chips
• Chrome globe pendant lights
• Orange and white checkered kitchen mat
• Clear acrylic storage containers
• Vintage-style orange ceramic canisters

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Transform existing cabinets with Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 in high-gloss finish for that space-age shine, then add orange interior surprise with “Tangerine Dream” 2019-28
• Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” SW-7036 keeps walls neutral while one accent wall in Benjamin Moore “Orange Parrot” 2169-20 brings that retro pop without overwhelming

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-plan spaces with good natural light

Mad Men Aesthetic: Walnut Veneer Cabinets and Brass Cabinet Pulls

Picture Don Draper’s office but make it your kitchen—that’s the walnut and brass combo taking over everyone’s feeds right now. It’s giving expensive vintage furniture store meets that trendy cocktail bar downtown where everything feels curated but not trying too hard. This look brings warmth without feeling heavy, sophistication without stuffiness.

Shop The Look:

1. Walnut veneer flat-panel cabinets with integrated handles
2. Honed granite countertops in charcoal or black
3. Rectangular subway tiles in warm white (3×6)
4. Medium-tone hardwood flooring in oak or walnut
5. Globe pendant lights with brass fixtures
6. Vintage-style brass cabinet pulls and knobs
7. Woven jute runner in natural tones
8. Brass and wood floating shelves

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Strip existing cabinets and apply Minwax Walnut stain #2716 for authentic wood grain, or paint with Benjamin Moore “Van Buren Brown” HC-70 for a similar deep tone
• Wall complement: Paint walls in Farrow & Ball “String” No. 8 for that perfect warm neutral, or Clare Paint “Current Mood” for a sophisticated taupe backdrop

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and closed layouts

Frank Lloyd Wright Influence: Horizontal Lines and Natural Stone Elements

That horizontal-lines-everywhere look Wright pioneered? It’s basically the architectural version of wearing all neutrals—everything just flows. Natural stone mixed with those clean lines gives you that grounded-but-elevated feel, like your favorite minimalist coffee shop but actually livable.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut veneer slab cabinets with integrated handles
• Honed granite countertops in warm gray
• Limestone or travertine backsplash tiles (12×24)
• Natural oak engineered flooring
• Linear brass pendant lights or track lighting
• Jute runner rug with geometric pattern (2.5’x8′)
• Acacia wood cutting board set
• Woven rattan storage baskets

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Natural Linen” (OC-141) on upper cabinets paired with “Tobacco Brown” (2097-20) on lowers creates that authentic earthtone contrast Wright loved.
• Wall treatment: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” (SW 7036) on main walls with “Urbane Bronze” (SW 7048) on the window wall for depth without heaviness.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Ranch-style homes with large windows

Desert Modernism: Terrazzo Flooring and Clerestory Windows

Desert modernism hits different when you’re sipping iced coffee in natural light that floods through those high windows. It’s basically that Palm Springs vacation rental you saved on Instagram, but make it functional for real life. The terrazzo-clerestory combo serves major retro resort energy while keeping things bright enough for 6am meal prep.

Shop The Look:

1. Warm walnut flat-panel cabinets with cutout handles
2. White concrete or light quartz countertops
3. Large format sand-colored porcelain tiles (24×24)
4. Terrazzo flooring in neutral tones with coral accents
5. Linear brass pendant lights or globe fixtures
6. Natural jute runner with geometric border (2.5’x7′)
7. Woven rattan countertop baskets set
8. Ceramic planters in terracotta and white

DIY Paint Transformation

• Warm backdrop: Paint walls in “Accessible Beige SW7036” (Sherwin-Williams) with ceiling in “Alabaster SW7008” to amplify clerestory light
• Desert accent: Create a statement wall using “Canyon Clay SW6054” (Sherwin-Williams) or “Sedona Clay 2174-30” (Benjamin Moore) behind open shelving

Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Homes with high ceilings or ranch-style layouts

Googie Architecture Elements: Boomerang Countertops and Angular Details

Those retro diner vibes from Palm Springs hotels are having a major moment—like wearing vintage cat-eye sunglasses but for your kitchen. Boomerang shapes and atomic-age angles transform cooking spaces into something between a Jetsons episode and that trendy brunch spot downtown.

Shop The Look:

1. Walnut veneer flat-panel cabinets with angled pulls
2. Laminate countertops in boomerang or kidney bean shape
3. Hexagonal tiles in turquoise or orange (3″ size)
4. Terrazzo flooring with colorful chips
5. Sputnik chandelier or starburst pendant lights
6. Atomic-print kitchen runner (West Elm style)
7. Chrome wire fruit basket with tripod legs
8. Vintage-style wall clock with sunburst design

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Aegean Teal” (2136-40) on lower cabinets paired with “White Dove” (OC-17) uppers creates that classic diner contrast without going full retro
• Accent wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Outgoing Orange” (6657) on one wall behind open shelving, with “Accessible Beige” (7036) on remaining walls for warmth

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens or compact spaces with personality

Minimalist Japanese Fusion: Shoji Screen Dividers and Low-Profile Cabinetry

Shop The Look:

• Flat-panel maple or bamboo cabinets with integrated handles
• Honed white marble or light gray quartz countertops
• Large format porcelain tiles in warm gray (24×24)
• Light bamboo or white oak flooring
• Rice paper pendant lights or linear LED fixtures
• Natural bamboo drawer dividers set
• Minimalist ceramic spice jars with wood lids
• Woven grass counter baskets for produce

DIY Paint Transformation

• Shoji screen effect: Paint existing upper cabinets with Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17, then add thin wood strips in a grid pattern stained with Minwax Golden Oak for that authentic screen look.
• Zen wall treatment: Use Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” SW 7036 for main walls with Benjamin Moore “Stone” AF-275 on the backsplash wall—creates depth without breaking the peaceful palette.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens or spaces with natural light

Industrial Mid Century: Exposed Brick Walls and Factory-Style Lighting

That loft-style kitchen you keep saving on Instagram? This is how to get it without moving to Brooklyn. Industrial mid century blends your favorite coffee shop aesthetics with Mad Men sophistication—exposed brick meets walnut warmth, factory fixtures with refined lines.

Shop The Look:

1. Walnut-stained flat panel cabinets with metal frame details
2. Concrete or butcher block countertops
3. White subway tiles with dark gray grout
4. Polished concrete or dark luxury vinyl plank flooring
5. Black iron pendant lights with Edison bulbs
6. Vintage-style leather and metal bar stools
7. Wire mesh storage baskets in matte black
8. Industrial pipe shelving brackets

DIY Paint Transformation

• Faux brick accent wall: Apply “Rustic Red” (Benjamin Moore HC-49) as base, then sponge on “Cottage Red” (HC-184) and “Burnt Sienna” (2175-30) for authentic brick variation
• Cabinet refresh: Paint lower cabinets in “Wrought Iron” (Benjamin Moore 2124-10) and keep uppers in natural wood or paint them “White Dove” (OC-17) for contrast

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces with high ceilings

Colorblock Statement: Two-Tone Cabinet Combinations and Vibrant Accent Walls

Remember those vintage diners with the mint green and pink color schemes that made everything feel happy? That’s the energy two-tone cabinets bring, but updated for your wine-and-Netflix lifestyle. Color blocking isn’t just for your favorite Reformation dress anymore—it’s the design move that makes cooking dinner feel less like a chore and more like content creation.

Shop The Look:

• Upper cabinets in sage green, lower cabinets in warm walnut
• Terrazzo countertops with colorful flecks
• White subway tiles with contrasting grout
• Light oak herringbone flooring
• Brass globe pendant lights (West Elm style)
• Terracotta and sage striped runner rug
• Rattan basket set for counter storage
• Ceramic planter trio in complementary colors

DIY Paint Transformation

• Upper cabinet refresh: Transform builder-grade cabinets with Benjamin Moore’s “October Mist” (1495) for that perfect sage moment, or go bold with “Aegean Teal” (2136-40) if you’re feeling main character energy.
• Accent wall magic: Create a statement wall behind open shelving with Clare Paint’s “Current Mood” (dusty pink) or Farrow & Ball’s “India Yellow” (66) for that golden hour glow all day long.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Open-concept spaces with good natural light

Vintage Formica Fantasy: Aqua Blue Countertops and Chrome Trim Details

That retro diner aesthetic hits different when it’s in your own home—like having your favorite vintage thrift find but make it functional. Aqua Formica countertops are basically the kitchen equivalent of those perfect vintage Levi’s everyone’s hunting for on Depop. This look transforms morning coffee into a mini time-travel experience.

Shop The Look:

• White shaker-style cabinets with chrome handles
• Aqua blue Formica or laminate countertops
• White subway tiles (3×6) with light gray grout
• Black and white checkerboard vinyl or linoleum flooring
• Chrome dome pendant lights (industrial style)
• Black and white checkered kitchen mat (20″x32″)
• Chrome wire fruit basket set
• Vintage-style aqua canisters (set of 3)

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Paint upper cabinets in Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 and lower cabinets in “Aegean Teal” 2136-40 for that perfect diner-inspired two-tone look
• Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Sea Salt” SW 6204 on main walls with “Pure White” SW 7005 on trim creates that breezy retro backdrop without going full theme park

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and compact spaces

Split-Level Classic: Open Shelving and Breakfast Bar Peninsula

That split-level vibe from Brady Bunch houses is having a major moment, but make it coffee shop cool. Open shelving lets you display your farmers market finds and vintage glassware collection while the peninsula becomes your WFH spot between meetings. It’s giving main character energy without the renovation show budget.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut veneer flat-panel cabinets (lower only)
• White Carrara marble or marble-look quartz countertops
• White subway tiles with contrasting gray grout
• Light oak or bamboo flooring
• Globe pendant lights in brass finish
• Natural jute runner rug (2.5’x8′)
• Bamboo drawer dividers set
• Ceramic canisters in earth tones

DIY Paint Transformation

• Upper cabinet refresh: Paint existing uppers with Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 for that barely-there warmth that photographs perfectly in natural light
• Peninsula accent: Try Farrow & Ball “Pigeon” No.25 on the back panel for sophisticated gray-green that grounds the space without competing with wood tones

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Split-level homes and galley kitchens needing visual expansion

Organic Modern Blend: Live-Edge Wood Elements and Curved Cabinet Doors

That perfect blend of structured MCM and free-flowing nature you keep seeing at trendy brunch spots. Live-edge counters paired with curved cabinet doors creates the same vibe as your favorite ceramic mug—organic yet refined. It’s giving California wellness meets Danish hygge.

Shop The Look:

1. Curved walnut veneer cabinet doors with integrated handles
2. Live-edge walnut or acacia breakfast bar/island top
3. Cream terrazzo tiles with warm brown chips
4. Light oak herringbone flooring
5. Brass globe pendant lights (clustered arrangement)
6. Natural jute round rug (6′ diameter)
7. Curved wooden cutting boards set
8. Woven rattan storage baskets with lids

DIY Paint Transformation

• Warm backdrop: Benjamin Moore “White Dove” OC-17 on upper cabinets creates the perfect canvas for wood tones. Skip stark whites—they’ll clash with organic warmth.
• Earthy accent wall: Farrow & Ball “Pigeon” No.25 behind open shelving adds that grounded, sophisticated depth without overwhelming natural elements.

Budget Range: $18,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens needing visual flow

Jet Set Glamour: Lucite Bar Stools and Mirror Backsplashes

That Hollywood Regency vibe your mom’s friend with the amazing jewelry collection had? It’s back, but make it functional. This style turns your morning smoothie-making into a scene from a vintage TWA ad—all gleaming surfaces and transparent furniture that makes your kitchen feel twice its size. It’s giving boutique hotel breakfast bar meets your favorite influencer’s home tour.

Shop The Look:

1. White lacquered flat-panel cabinets with chrome handles
2. White marble or quartzite countertops with dramatic veining
3. Mirror tile backsplash (subway or hexagon shape)
4. Polished white porcelain floor tiles (24×24)
5. Chrome and crystal chandelier or pendant cluster
6. Clear acrylic bar stools with chrome legs
7. Mirrored serving tray with gold handles
8. Glass and brass tiered shelf organizer

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Benjamin Moore “Decorator’s White” OC-149 in high-gloss finish for that lacquered look without the price tag
• Wall magic: Sherwin Williams “Alabaster” SW 7008 on three walls, with Benjamin Moore “Metropolitan” AF-690 on an accent wall to amplify the mirror backsplash effect

Budget Range: $18,000-$30,000 | Timeline: 3-4 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens or breakfast bars

Suburban Time Capsule: Knotty Pine Panels and Original GE Appliances

That perfectly preserved 1950s kitchen your mom remembers from grandma’s house is suddenly the most coveted look on everyone’s mood board. Knotty pine isn’t just wood paneling anymore—it’s the warm, honey-toned backdrop that makes your kitchen feel like a cozy cabin meets vintage diner.

Shop The Look:

• Knotty pine cabinet fronts or panel overlay kits
• Butcher block or laminate countertops in boomerang pattern
• Mint green or pink subway tiles (3×6 classic layout)
• Black and white checkered vinyl or linoleum flooring
• Schoolhouse-style flush mount ceiling fixtures
• Vintage-inspired dish drying rack in chrome
• Atomic-print kitchen textiles (towels and curtains)
• Reproduction Fiesta dinnerware for open shelving

DIY Paint Transformation

• Appliance refresh: Use Rust-Oleum Appliance Epoxy in “Biscuit” or “Almond” to transform white appliances into that authentic vintage cream color that screams 1950s
• Cabinet accent: Benjamin Moore “Aegean Teal” (#2136-40) for lower cabinets paired with natural knotty pine uppers, or Sherwin Williams “Coral Reef” (#SW 6606) for a bold atomic-era statement

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Ranch-style homes and cottages

Bauhaus-Inspired Efficiency: Modular Cabinet Systems and Primary Color Accents

Like when your favorite minimalist fashion blogger designs a kitchen—everything has a purpose and looks effortlessly cool. This style brings that same organized-but-not-boring energy that makes German design Instagram accounts so addictive. It’s basically the IKEA aesthetic’s sophisticated older sister who studied architecture.

Shop The Look:

• Frameless European-style cabinets with push-to-open hardware
• Butcher block or white laminate countertops
• White subway tiles in stack bond pattern
• Light gray vinyl plank flooring
• Track lighting system with adjustable heads
• Primary color storage canisters set (red, yellow, blue)
• Wire mesh desk organizers as drawer dividers
• Mondrian-inspired dish towels or art prints

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Paint upper cabinets in Benjamin Moore “Chantilly Lace” OC-65 and lower cabinets in “Caliente” AF-290 for that bold red pop. Keep hardware minimal chrome or remove completely.
• Accent wall strategy: Use Sherwin Williams “Tricorn Black” SW-6258 for one wall behind open shelving, paired with “Pure White” SW-7005 on remaining walls for gallery-like contrast.

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Galley kitchens and compact spaces

West Coast Modern: Redwood Beams and Aggregate Concrete Counters

That California coastal vibe where natural wood meets raw concrete—basically what happens when a beachfront café aesthetic moves indoors. This style brings that same relaxed luxury you feel at those $18 smoothie bowl spots in Malibu, but makes it actually livable. Your kitchen becomes the place where everyone naturally gravitates during parties.

Shop The Look:

• Walnut or redwood slab floating shelves
• Aggregate concrete countertops (or concrete-look quartz)
• Natural terracotta or warm gray subway tiles
• Light bamboo or cork flooring
• Edison bulb pendant lights with brass fixtures
• Jute rope placemats set (natural fiber)
• Woven seagrass storage baskets
• Ceramic planters in earth tones

DIY Paint Transformation

• Warm base coat: Benjamin Moore “Shaker Beige” HC-45 on all walls creates that perfect sun-washed backdrop that makes redwood tones sing
• Cabinet refresh: Sherwin Williams “Accessible Beige” SW 7036 for lower cabinets paired with natural wood uppers gives that two-tone West Coast look

Budget Range: $18,000-$28,000 | Timeline: 4-5 weeks | Best For: Kitchens with natural light

Preservation Perfect: Restored Original Features and Period-Appropriate Updates

Think of this as the vintage store find that actually works—like discovering your grandmother’s perfectly preserved handbag that somehow looks better than anything new. Restoring original mid-century features is basically the kitchen equivalent of wearing authentic vintage with modern basics. It’s that perfectly imperfect look everyone’s trying to recreate on their feeds.

Shop The Look:

• Original wood cabinets (restored walnut or teak veneer)
• Boomerang-pattern laminate countertops or butcher block
• Hexagonal mosaic floor tiles (white with colored accents)
• Cork or linoleum flooring in geometric patterns
• Starburst or atomic-style pendant lights
• Vintage-inspired kitchen clock (brass sunburst design)
• Wire fruit basket in copper or brass finish
• Retro-colored canisters (turquoise, orange, or avocado)

DIY Paint Transformation

• Cabinet refresh: Strip and restain original wood cabinets with Minwax Golden Oak 210B to bring back that warm honey glow, or paint lower cabinets in Benjamin Moore “Caliente AF-290” for that perfect retro red-orange punch
• Wall magic: Paint walls in Farrow & Ball “Setting Plaster 231” (peachy-pink neutral) or Clare Paint “Current Mood” (sage green) to complement wood tones without competing

Budget Range: $18,000-$35,000 | Timeline: 4-6 weeks | Best For: Original 1950s-60s homes with existing features