Over the past century, kitchens have mirrored social shifts, technological leaps, and lifestyle changes.
Step into a 1920s kitchen and you’d find a coal-fired oven, linoleum floors, and pastel hues that made the space feel cheerful and practical. Fast forward to today, and kitchens are sleek, smart, and integrated into the way we live.
While you’ll most likely never find a modern renovation that includes a coal-fired oven, each decade has left influences that still shape the way we design bespoke kitchens today.
1920s – Easy-going Charm
Compact and functional kitchens in the 1920s embraced simplicity. Soft pastel colours and linoleum floors made them welcoming and easy to care for. These understated palettes still inspire calm, timeless colour schemes in contemporary design.
An Ode to the 1920s by Kitchen Design Concepts
1940s – Patterns and Prints
As modern appliances like gas cookers and electric refrigerators became more accessible, kitchens grew bolder. Florals, fruit motifs, and colourful tiles brightened interiors, which were especially sought after. Today, statement wallpapers and patterned backsplashes echo this escapist, playful legacy, though they took on a new life in decades to come.
Period Perfect Kitchen the 1940s by Arcifrom
1960s – Making a Statement
The swinging 60s brought a bolder creativity into the home. Formica countertops, bright appliances, and patterned wallpaper turned kitchens into spaces of bold self-expression. That appetite for individuality continues, inspiring clients to introduce colour or texture through cabinetry and finishes.
Source: Getty Images, 1960s Kitchens
1980s – Warm and Welcoming
Design softened in the 1980s. Neutral palettes, oak cabinetry, and granite countertops created warmth and comfort. Stainless steel appliances provided contrast and sophistication. Many of today’s kitchens still lean into this balance of natural warmth and durable finishes.
From: Update Your 1980s Kitchen by Abbeys Kitchen & Bathrooms
1990s – Elegance
Kitchens in the 1990s adopted a more formal, polished aesthetic. Cherry cabinets, marble worktops, and black appliances were sought after. The combination of richness and restraint continues to influence modern luxury kitchens.
1990s Kitchen Trends from Southern Living
2000s – Contemporary Connections
The 2000s embraced open-plan living. Kitchens became social hubs, flowing into dining and living areas. Stainless steel, glass, and sleek cabinetry defined this era. This focus on connection and multifunctionality is now a cornerstone of contemporary kitchen design.
2010s – Eclectic and Sustainable
Reclaimed materials, exposed brick, and industrial accents shaped kitchens in the 2010s. Sustainability came into sharper focus, with energy-efficient appliances and recycled materials gaining popularity. Today, the commitment to conscious design continues, with eco-friendly choices seamlessly integrated into luxury spaces.
Iconic Kitchens from 2010s – LinkedIn
2020s – Redefining Luxury
Our current decade redefines what luxury means. Minimalist layouts, bespoke storage, and smart technology are now hallmarks of modern kitchens. Voice-activated appliances, tailored joinery, and clean-lined surfaces create spaces that are both highly functional and deeply personal.
Kitchen Design Trends the 2020s by NKBA
Inspiration Through the Decades
Each decade has left an imprint on the way we design kitchens at Amberth today:
- Open-plan living creates flow and spaciousness, connecting the heart of the home with the rest of the space.
- Sustainable design is an essential part of how we shape functional, future-proof interiors.
- Smart technology continues to make daily life more convenient.
- Personal expression ensures that no two kitchens are ever alike. Bespoke design reflects the lifestyle and personality of the people who live there.
The Amberth Philosophy
The history of kitchens shows us one thing: the spaces you love are always functional, timeless, and personal.
At Amberth, we design around your lifestyle. Drawing inspiration from the past, we create kitchens that feel distinctly yours. Exquisitely designed, uniquely crafted, and expertly installed.
Bespoke luxury. Just the way you’ve envisioned.
Visit our Islington studio to explore our work firsthand and meet the team who can bring your vision to life.
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FAQs
What are the most timeless kitchen design features?
Neutral palettes, natural materials like stone and timber, and well-planned storage never go out of style. These elements adapt easily to changing trends while ensuring your kitchen remains functional and elegant for decades.
Which decade has influenced today’s kitchens the most?
Open-plan living from the 2000s has had the biggest impact, shaping kitchens as social hubs connected to the rest of the home. Sustainability from the 2010s and smart technology from the 2020s also define today’s luxury kitchens.
How can I bring vintage kitchen style into a modern home?
Details such as patterned tiles, pastel cabinetry, or retro-inspired appliances can capture the charm of earlier decades while blending seamlessly into a modern, functional layout.
Why is bespoke kitchen design better than off-the-shelf?
Bespoke kitchens are designed around your lifestyle. Every cabinet, surface, and fixture is tailored to your space and needs, ensuring comfort, longevity, and individuality — something pre-set designs simply can’t achieve.
What’s next for kitchen design?
The future lies in personalisation. Smart, sustainable solutions will continue to evolve, but the focus will remain on creating kitchens that reflect the individuality of the people who live in them.
