These era-specific designs have timeless appeal without feeling too theme-y.

At its core,mid-century modern designis all about form and functionalitywith a little flare thrown in, too.

Looking to add a retro vibe to your space?

mid-century modern kitchen with yellow tile backsplash

Photo:Photo and Design by Christa Borden forHigh & Tight Design

Take this kitchen by Chesmore Buck Architecture as an example.

When designing a mid-century modern kitchen, something as simple as the right knobs can help reinforce your vibe.

Choose No-Frills Cabinetry

Photo byCharlotte LeaforA.

mid century modern style kitchen with wood paneled wall

Photo byAndrew GiammarcoforChesmore Buck Architecture

Lean into the impactful nature of these elements to help give your kitchen design credibility.

Mix In Other Vibes

Photo byJoel NoonforM.J.

One of our favorites?

mid-century modern kitchen with multi-colored tile back wall

Photo byJess IsaacforAker Interiors

To make the most of your square footage, consider incorporating an era-specific storage solution into your kitchen.

Try a Bright Fridge

Nothing says mid-century like a bright, retro-style fridge.

mid-century modern kitchen with large hanging pendant lights

Photo byDavid TsayforRaili CA Design

mid-century modern kitchen with yellow backsplash tile

Photo and Design by Christa Borden forHigh & Tight Design

mid-century modern kitchen with wood cabinets

Photo byCharlotte LeaforA. Naber Design

mid century modern kitchen with blue tile backsplash

Photo byDavid Papazian PhotographyforChesmore Buck Architecture

mid-century modern kitchen with wood cabinets and green tile backsplash

Photo byJoel NoonforM.J. Harris Group

mid-century modern kitchen with blue fluted island

Photo byCharlotte LeaforA. Naber Design

mid-century modern kitchen with retro backsplash and pendant light

Photo byJessica AlexanderforVeneer Designs

mid century modern kitchen with retro stove range

Photo byEllen Renee PhotographyforNikole Starr Interiors

mid-century modern kitchen with green tile backsplash

Photo byMellon StudioforJen Samson Design

kitchen with mid-century modern shelving unit

Photo bySeth SmootforForm and Field Design

mid-century modern kitchen with blue tile backsplash

Photo byCharlotte LeaforSolstice Interiors, Construction byAppleton Design and Construction

mid-century modern kitchen with wood cabinets and black and gold accents

PhotoMiranda Estes PhotographyforThe Residency Bureau

Barstools and a butchers island in a white kitchen with colourful crockery

Photo by: Andreas von Einsiedel / Getty Images

Orange retro style Smeg fridge in the kitchen of a converted Hackney Warehouse with butler sink and range cooker

Photo by: Andreas von Einsiedel / Getty Images