Many homeowners, designers, and collectors are drawn to mid-century modern design for its nostalgic vibe. From small decor and accent pieces to statement art and large furniture, there are plenty of ways for people to bring mid-mod character into their modern homes.
But what about mid-century modern appliances? What designs and styles should you be on the lookout for as you update your kitchen with vintage appliances?
In this blog, we give examples of what characterizes mid-mod appliances, the companies that brought the designs to life, and where you can find them today.
What Defines a Classic Mid-Century Modern Appliance?
Mid-century modern appliances can be instantly recognized by their distinct design language:
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Simple Lines and Minimalist Forms: Free of unnecessary ornamentation, the era emphasized sleekness and practicality.
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Bright or Pastel Color Palettes: Appliances often featured playful colors like turquoise, avocado green, sunny yellow, soft pink, and mustard, bringing a cheerful vibrancy to kitchens.
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Chrome Detailing and Space-Age Influence: Futuristic chrome handles and polished metallic trims added a touch of the space-age excitement prevalent during the mid-century years.
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Emphasis on Functionality and Innovation: Appliances weren't merely decorative—they prioritized groundbreaking features that simplified daily tasks.
Iconic Mid Century Modern Kitchen Appliances
”Hotpoint All Pink Kitchen, 1961,” by Joe Wolf, via Flickr, licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
Refrigerators
Classic mid-century refrigerators are iconic for their rounded edges, vibrant colors, and gleaming chrome handles. Brands such as GE, Frigidaire, and Kelvinator led the era, releasing models that remain highly coveted by collectors today.
These refrigerators defined the visual character of the kitchen. Bold colors matched or contrasted intentionally with cabinetry, turning practical appliances into focal points of the room.
⭐ Styling Tip: If you can’t find a vintage refrigerator, opt for a mid-mod-patterned refrigerator wrap to cover your existing fridge.
Stoves and Ovens
Stoves and ovens from the mid-century often featured slide-in configurations with accessible knobs and polished metal trim. Wall-mounted ovens were popular during this time because they maximized kitchen space and convenience.
Color-coordinated sets—ovens matching refrigerators—were also incredibly popular. People appreciated the cohesive, harmonious look of these sets, and brands like Chambers, O’Keefe & Merritt, and Tappan championed these designs.
⭐ Styling Tip: Cover your oven handles with appliance handle covers for a mid-century pop in an otherwise modern space.
Dishwashers
The 1950s and 60s brought the stylistic improvement of built-in dishwashers. No longer bulky, standalone units, dishwashers became common additions to kitchen cabinetry, designed with streamlined panels and subtle handles.
Companies such as KitchenAid and Westinghouse pioneered designs that saved space and brought a streamlined look to kitchens.
Small Appliances (Toasters, Mixers, Blenders)
Designed to be displayed on countertops instead of hidden in cupboards, small appliances represented domestic innovation. Sunbeam’s automatic toasters, KitchenAid’s durable mixers, and Oster’s elegant blenders combined sturdy quality with attractive mid-mod designs, and people loved them.
The same is true today, with collectors constantly on the hunt for vintage versions of these appliances to add to their own homes.
⭐ Styling Tip: Add a cute mid-mod-patterned toaster cover to your kitchen decor!
Where to Find Classic Mid-Century Modern Appliances Today
Finding authentic mid-century modern appliances really is like going on a constant treasure hunt. Here are the most likely places to stumble across these gems:
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Antique Stores and Vintage Resellers: Specialty antique shops and flea markets frequently offer genuine vintage appliances in good working condition.
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Refurbished and Restored Appliance Dealers: Dedicated dealers restore classic appliances for reliability and safety while preserving original aesthetic qualities.
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Retro-Inspired New Models: Brands like Big Chill, SMEG, and Elmira offer brand-new appliances styled after classic mid-century designs. While these aren’t vintage, they do have the authentic look many people love.
Wishing You Luck on Your Hunt for Mid-Mod Appliances!
While classic mid-century modern appliances bring the benefit of improved functionality in your kitchen, they’re also cultural artifacts rich with style, history, and undeniable charm.
Whether you’re dead-set on finding authentic vintage models or looking for thoughtfully designed modern reproductions, these appliances are fun, nostalgic additions to any home’s kitchen.
