Retro fixtures and finishes are finding their way into Chicago kitchen designs of all types. They’re such a fun way to add personality and, often, pops of color in any kitchen. Lighting fixtures are no exception and, in our minds, they’re an excellent step toward designing a timeless kitchen remodel – and offer a way to add colors, patterns or textures that are easily swapped out again as general style trends or your personal tastes evolve.
While this post focuses on lighting fixtures, we invite you to read, Chicago Kitchen Remodeling: Big Chill Appliances, to explore more fun and stylish ways to add retro flair to your kitchen.
Vintage pieces work for every type of kitchen design
Vintage and antique light fixtures – or reproduced versions – integrate easily with every type of design. They look right at home in traditional kitchens, they’re a fun cross-over between worlds in a transitional design and they also add a fun and playful touch – or even an industrial one – in postmodern and highly-contemporary kitchen remodels.
This also means vintage fixtures appeal to every sector of the homebuyer market if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future. They’ll strike a familiar and tender cord for empty nesters and baby boomers, who remember when they were originally “contemporary,” and they hit the sweet spot for millennials who appreciate eclectic, trendy flair.
Scour local thrift stores, antique shops and vintage boutiques
There’s a seemingly infinite selection of reproduction vintage light fixtures on the market because they’re trending right now. Even so, some of the most fun, eclectic and captivating versions are the originals. Keep your eye out at flea markets, antique shops and vintage boutiques. Craigslist and eBay are also potential suppliers. You may find exactly what you’re looking for and can boast an “original” vintage piece.
If not, your kitchen designer will direct you to the lighting design company who offers the widest range of retro fixtures and reproduction vintage lines.
Pendants, faux-lanterns & Edison bulbs - all have a place in the kitchen
Vintage and retro fixtures come in all forms. For the kitchen, however, they’re typically suspended. We’ve seen everything from faux-lanterns over the island, to incredible metal and colored glass chandeliers. Industrial lighting also fits the bill, often in the form of metal barn style lights (like the ones shown here). While some of the reproduction models are based off retro versions and made to look new, others treat the metal to give it a weathered patina so it's hard to distinguish from a true vintage or antique piece.
Edison bulbs, like the ones suspended over the island in this sleek, contemporary Vancouver kitchen, are also trending They look great with a simple white, black, metallic or barely-there cord, but we’ve also seen homeowners add playful pizazz using brightly colored cords. They're also used in chandeliers and other, funky suspended lighting designs.
Looking for a way to add your own taste, a bit of color and/or some eclectic personality into your Chicagoland kitchen design? Vintage lighting fixtures are just the thing. Visit us here at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited to explore the possibilities.
