22 Unique Kitchen Style Ideas
If you’re someone who loves timeless charm and vintage character, then a 1910-style kitchen might be right up your alley.
There’s something utterly nostalgic about the kitchens from this era — from their handcrafted cabinetry and charming tilework to the warmth of solid wood and the delicate balance between functionality and beauty.
Whether you’re restoring an old home or just want to bring a touch of early 20th-century charm into your modern space, these 22 unique kitchen style ideas will help you capture that authentic old-world magic.
1. Embrace the Classic White Palette
The 1910s kitchen was known for its crisp, clean look, and white was the dominant color. Think white painted cabinets, white porcelain sinks, and white subway tiles. This wasn’t just about style — white gave a sense of cleanliness and simplicity that fit perfectly with the early 20th-century ideals.
2. Subway Tile Backsplash
You can’t talk about 1910s design without mentioning the iconic subway tile. Simple, rectangular, and gleaming, this tile became a kitchen staple for a reason. Use it as a backsplash behind your stove or sink, and consider pairing it with dark grout to highlight the pattern for a bit of modern flair.
3. Freestanding Furniture-Style Cabinets
Built-in cabinetry was just beginning to gain popularity in the early 1900s, so freestanding cabinets and hutches were still common. Choose furniture-style cabinets with visible legs, beadboard paneling, and detailed woodwork to get that authentic, handcrafted 1910s vibe.
4. Butcher Block Countertops
Before granite and quartz took over, wood countertops ruled the kitchen. Butcher block, in particular, was both beautiful and practical. It adds warmth and brings that tactile, homey feeling typical of a 1910 kitchen.
5. Farmhouse Sinks with Aprons
One of the most recognizable features of early 20th-century kitchens is the large porcelain farmhouse sink. With its deep basin and exposed front apron, it’s as functional today as it was then — and it looks absolutely stunning when paired with vintage-style faucets.
6. Glass-Front Cabinet Doors
Glass-front cabinets were not just decorative; they also helped display fine china and dishware. Opt for mullioned glass doors or leaded glass patterns to recreate that charming old-world display style.
7. Beadboard Walls and Ceilings
Beadboard was a staple in 1910 kitchens. It added texture, protected walls, and was easy to clean. Use beadboard panels on walls, ceilings, or even cabinet fronts to instantly bring that classic cottage-style detail to your kitchen.
8. Pull Chain Lighting Fixtures
Before sleek recessed lighting, kitchens were illuminated with pendant lights and pull-chain fixtures. Look for reproduction fixtures with brass or nickel finishes, or even early-style milk glass shades for that perfect vintage glow.
9. Linoleum or Checkerboard Floors
Linoleum first became popular around this time, often featuring checkerboard patterns or muted tones of green, cream, or maroon. You can modernize the look with updated materials but keep that vintage pattern alive — it’s both nostalgic and stylish.
10. Icebox-Inspired Refrigerator
Refrigerators as we know them didn’t exist in 1910, but wooden iceboxes sure did. You can find retro-style fridges designed to look like those old iceboxes, complete with chrome handles and curved corners — a perfect nod to history with modern convenience.
11. Classic Range Cookers
The centerpiece of many 1910 kitchens was a cast-iron range. Today, you can find modern ranges designed with vintage detailing, like enamel finishes and ornate knobs. Choose one in white, black, or cream to match your old-fashioned look.
12. Open Shelving with Brackets
Early kitchens often used simple open shelves supported by decorative brackets for everyday dishes and pantry items. This not only adds character but also makes your kitchen feel airier and more functional.
13. Antique Hardware
Don’t overlook the small details! Switch out modern handles for vintage-inspired brass or porcelain knobs. Even the hinges can make a big difference in evoking that authentic early 20th-century style.
14. Soft Pastel Accents
While white dominated, many kitchens featured subtle pastel accents — think pale mint green, butter yellow, or light blue. Add these hues through painted cabinets, accessories, or vintage dishware to give your kitchen a cheerful, period-correct touch.
15. Built-In Pantry Cabinets
The 1910s marked the rise of more efficient kitchen organization. A built-in pantry cabinet with shallow shelves and glass doors gives you that vintage “pantry cupboard” look while providing modern storage space.
16. Wall-Mounted Pot Racks
In a time before endless cabinet storage, pots and pans were hung on walls for easy access. A wrought-iron or brass pot rack adds both function and old-world charm to your kitchen today.
17. Lace Curtains and Café Drapes
For windows, the 1910 look was all about light and lace. Café-style curtains or lace valances let the sunshine in while adding a romantic, vintage touch. Choose soft neutrals or floral patterns to stay true to the era.
18. Period-Style Wallpaper
Wallpaper was very popular in the early 20th century, often featuring delicate floral or geometric patterns. A little goes a long way — consider wallpapering just a single accent wall or the space above a beadboard wainscot.
19. Ironstone and Enamelware Accents
To complete the look, decorate with authentic 1910 kitchen accessories like enamel pitchers, ironstone bowls, and old tin canisters. These add subtle texture and authenticity without feeling too “museum-like.”
20. Vintage Clock and Wall Décor
Add character to your kitchen with a vintage-style wall clock, framed botanical prints, or antique advertising signs. These touches make your kitchen feel lived-in, like a genuine space from a bygone era.
21. Copper and Brass Details
From cookware to light fixtures, copper and brass were staples of 1910s kitchens. Their warm patina adds instant vintage luxury. Hang copper pots on a rack, or choose a brass faucet for a touch of golden glow.
22. Cozy Breakfast Nook
Many 1910s homes featured a small built-in breakfast nook — perfect for morning coffee or a cozy chat. If you have a corner to spare, add a built-in bench, a round pedestal table, and some floral cushions to create your own nostalgic retreat.
Tips for Blending 1910 Style with Modern Comfort
You might be thinking, “Okay, but I still need a dishwasher, microwave, and modern storage!” The key is balance — keep the vintage look in visible design elements while sneaking in modern upgrades.
- Hide modern appliances behind paneled cabinet fronts.
- Use reproduction lighting that meets modern efficiency standards.
- Choose quartz countertops that mimic marble or wood for easier upkeep.
- Mix metals tastefully — brushed brass, nickel, and iron all work well together.
It’s about preserving the soul of a 1910 kitchen while keeping your daily life easy and practical.
How to Source Authentic Pieces
If you’re going all-in, try hunting down antique shops, flea markets, and architectural salvage stores. You can often find authentic doors, cabinet hardware, and even old sinks that can be restored. There are also amazing reproduction companies that create new pieces inspired by original 1910 designs — perfect when you want the look without the wear and tear.
The Magic of 1910 Kitchens
What makes this style so irresistible is how warm and human it feels. It’s not about perfection — it’s about craftsmanship, charm, and character. Every detail, from the hardware to the tiles, tells a story of a time when things were built to last.
A 1910 kitchen isn’t just a design choice — it’s a celebration of timeless simplicity, a return to honest materials, and a reminder that beauty doesn’t have to be flashy to be meaningful.
Conclusion
Recreating a 1910 kitchen style is more than just following a design trend — it’s about embracing history and warmth in your home. From white subway tiles and farmhouse sinks to beadboard walls and brass details, every element contributes to that signature early 20th-century character.
Whether you decide to go full vintage or just sprinkle in a few period-inspired touches, these 22 unique 1910 kitchen ideas will help you strike that perfect balance between old-world elegance and modern comfort. So roll up your sleeves, pick your favorite ideas, and start designing a kitchen that feels like it’s been loved for generations — because that’s exactly what makes the 1910 style so special.
