• Retro kitchen appliances can definitely be in style, it’s just a matter of how you integrate them into your space.
• Incorporating common accents and colors into the space can help bring your kitchen together with retro-style appliances.
• Retro appliances may not have all the amendments and conveniences of modern ones, so do research before you buy.

If a more warm and welcoming kitchen is one of your goals (or you spend too much time scrolling on Pinterest and daydreaming of those viral pastel-hued fridges), the comfort and coziness old-school elements can bring to the space might be exactly what you need.

Our feeds have been full of colorful and cute retro-style appliances for years— but as we all know, home trends come and go. So whether it’s a ’50s-style refrigerator, microwave, or full range cooker that has caught your eye, the big question remains: are retro kitchen appliances still in style?

We asked three designers their thoughts on if retro kitchen appliances are still in style; here’s what they had to say.

Are Retro Kitchen Appliances Still In?

The short answer to if retro kitchen appliances are still in is… They can be—especially when their pastel or bright-hued varieties are styled in vintage-inspired, maximalist, or midcentury modern kitchens.

“Retro appliances absolutely still have their place in interiors,” interior designer Emily LaMarque says. “They incorporate classic curves and vibrant colors, and instantly infuse a space with style and character.”

Although our designers don’t envision every kitchen’s decor style benefitting from a statement red, green, or pink fridge (we’re looking at you, modern farmhouse), some—like designer Jessica Holwick—do see ways for retro appliances to shine in other rooms dedicated to hosting and entertaining.

“I do feel there are certain spaces where a retro appliance could work no matter your style,” she explains. “Kitchenettes, small kitchens in basements, pool houses, game rooms, and in-law suites are secondary kitchen areas where there is more liberty to have a little fun, even if your style is more traditional, modern or refined.”

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How to Incorporate Retro Appliances Into a Modern Kitchen

Unless you’re leaning into post-modernist theme for your kitchen, our experts say the keys to styling a large retro-style fridge or range in a modern kitchen are to keep the rest of the space simple, and to make sure there are other colors or items that complement the piece.

“Incorporating a retro appliance into a modern kitchen is all about balance,” interior designer Alecia Taylor says. “The key is to use the retro appliance as an accent, rather than letting it dominate the space.”

For example, one of Taylor’s favorite ways to style the iconic SMEG retro mint fridge is with a timeless set of white shaker-style cabinets that have stainless steel fixtures to tie in with the appliance’s chrome accents, and with simple, sleek countertops and decor.

“Countertop appliances—such as blenders and toasters—are also a good way to dip your toe into the world of retro appliances,” Holwick adds.

So, if the sleek curves of smaller countertop appliances appeal to you, opting for a neutral, all-chrome, or pastel green or blue kettle, toaster, coffee machine, or blender can bring a warm sense of nostalgia into even the most modern and minimalist kitchen spaces.

Common Pitfalls

Although retro kitchen appliances can help bring the joy and fun factor to your kitchen, there are also a few common drawbacks to keep in mind before you invest in one:

• Actual retro kitchen appliances (rather than new, retro-style ones) tend to demand more power, which could contribute to increased energy bills.
• The dimensions of full-sized retro fridges don’t always line up with the current standard dimensions, which can make them difficult to incorporate into preexisting cabinetry.
• Many retro and retro-style appliances don’t have the extra features you may be used to like water and ice dispensers.
• Retro-style fridges and ranges are typically smaller and more expensive than modern designs.
• Retro kitchen appliances can be harder to clean, repair, and maintain, and may call for less common part replacements.