26 Unique 1910 Kitchen Style Ideas: Embrace the Timeless Charm

The 1910s ushered in an era of refined elegance, but when it comes to kitchens, it wasn’t just about good looks; it was about functionality, comfort, and a taste of modernity. The kitchens of this period were defined by practicality blended with the introduction of new technologies.

If you’re looking to capture the charm of this early 20th-century style, you’re in the right place. The 1910 kitchen wasn’t just a place to cook—it was a space for family gathering, domestic pride, and even a little socializing.

1. Craftsman Influence with Natural Materials

In the 1910s, the Craftsman style was rising to prominence, and it made a lasting impact on kitchens. This style is all about emphasizing natural wood and handcraftsmanship. Think rich oak cabinetry, exposed wooden beams, and sturdy built-in furniture. The warmth of unpolished wood brought a rustic yet refined feel, which contrasted the industrialized world outside the home.

2. Farmhouse Chic

A staple of the early 1900s, the farmhouse kitchen was practical and built to last. This kitchen style embraced functionality with large cast iron stoves, apron-front sinks, and wide wooden counters. The focus was on simplicity, making it easy to gather the family around, cook hearty meals, and even preserve food for the winter months.

3. The Rise of the Icebox

Before electric refrigerators, the icebox was the key to keeping food fresh. This metal or wooden box with an insulated compartment for ice was a common feature in 1910 kitchens. If you’re into vintage kitchen designs, adding a reproduction icebox to your kitchen would pay homage to this once-essential appliance.

4. White Enamel Accents

The 1910s saw the arrival of white enamelware in kitchens. Whether it was a sink, cookware, or storage canisters, white enamel was a popular choice due to its sleek, clean appearance and durability. These items were often adorned with a blue or red rim, which added a subtle pop of color to the kitchen.

5. Bungalow Style Cabinets

The bungalow-style kitchen was popular in the early 20th century. These kitchens were designed to be cozy, functional, and easy to maintain. With shaker-style cabinets and open shelving, the aesthetic was clean, simple, and laid-back. The cabinetry was often built directly into the walls, creating a seamless look.

6. Open Shelving for Storage

Open shelves began to appear in kitchens during the 1910s, which was a departure from traditional closed cabinets. This approach not only displayed your crockery but also made items more accessible. The idea was that everything should have a place and be easy to reach, making it both functional and visually pleasing.

7. Built-in Sideboards

The 1910s kitchen often featured built-in sideboards or buffet-style cabinets. These multi-purpose units were used for everything from storing dishes to displaying decorative items. The sideboard was often placed between the kitchen and dining area, bridging the two spaces in a functional yet aesthetically appealing way.

8. Wooden Floors with a Touch of Shine

Kitchens during this period often had wooden floors that were polished to a soft sheen. Unlike today’s emphasis on stone or tile, the wooden floors were warm, inviting, and easy to clean. A soft varnish or oil finish brought out the natural grain of the wood while providing a protective coating.

9. Vintage Tile Backsplashes

Tiles were often used for backsplashes in 1910s kitchens, typically in neutral tones like white, cream, or soft pastel hues. The tiles were often ceramic, subway-style, or featuring intricate patterns that added personality and texture to the kitchen. The backsplash was not just decorative but practical for easy cleaning.

10. Wrought Iron Hardware

Adding a touch of industrial charm, many kitchens of the 1910s featured wrought iron handles and knobs on cabinets. The metal hardware complemented the wood tones of the cabinets while adding a bit of sturdiness and a sense of craftsmanship. Opting for black iron or brass finishes will help evoke that timeless 1910s feel.

11. Checkerboard Flooring

The classic black-and-white checkerboard flooring was a staple of 1910s kitchens, giving the space a visually striking, almost theatrical quality. The tiles’ bold pattern became a symbol of early 20th-century kitchens, and it’s still a beloved option for those looking to achieve a vintage vibe today.

12. Vintage Appliances

While the 1910s were the dawn of the electric age, many kitchens still used coal stoves and wood-burning ranges. However, as electric stoves began to replace traditional methods, kitchens started integrating early forms of modern appliances. If you’re after an authentic 1910 kitchen, consider incorporating vintage-style appliances such as a retro refrigerator or a gas range.

13. Exposed Beam Ceilings

To add visual interest and emphasize a rustic charm, many 1910s kitchens featured exposed wooden beams. Whether in a bungalow-style home or a more Craftsman-inspired kitchen, these beams helped create a sense of coziness while blending practicality with aesthetic appeal.

14. Beadboard Paneling

Beadboard paneling was a popular wall treatment in 1910s kitchens. The narrow, vertical slats created a timeless look that also contributed to a sense of lightness and space. The material was often painted white to brighten up kitchens and make them feel fresh, open, and airy.

15. Butler’s Pantry

A butler’s pantry was an essential feature in upscale 1910s kitchens. This small room or alcove served as a space for storing fine china, glassware, and other luxury items. It was also a place for prep work before meals and allowed for the separation of tasks when entertaining guests.

16. Floral Curtains and Linens

The 1910s were known for their romantic and quaint touch, and floral patterns dominated much of the interior decor, including kitchen curtains, tablecloths, and linens. Whether soft florals or small, delicate prints, these accents added a charming femininity and warmth to kitchens.

17. Copper Pots and Pans

Copper cookware was a hallmark of high-end kitchens during this period. Not only were copper pots and pans practical for even heat distribution, but they also served as decorative pieces. Hanging a collection of copper kitchenware on display can instantly give your kitchen that rustic, yet stylish, 1910s appeal.

18. Country Style Stoves

The early 1900s introduced large, freestanding stoves that were central to the kitchen’s design. Wood-burning stoves or coal ranges were often the heart of the home. If you want a piece of history in your kitchen, a vintage-style country stove can serve as a functional and nostalgic focal point.

19. Tin Ceilings

Another hallmark of 1910 kitchens was the use of tin ceilings. These pressed metal panels offered a decorative yet durable surface for the kitchen ceiling. Often embossed with patterns of floral or geometric designs, the tin ceiling was a functional feature that also reflected the industrial age’s influence.

20. Porcelain Farm Sinks

The iconic porcelain farmhouse sink became a standard in many early 20th-century kitchens. These sinks were large, deep, and built into the cabinetry, making them both practical and beautiful. Whether classic white or with a slight color trim, this sink style remains a popular choice for modern kitchens seeking a vintage look.

21. Victorian Stained Glass Windows

While not exclusively limited to the kitchen, many homes in the 1910s incorporated stained glass windows in various rooms, including kitchens. These windows often featured intricate designs in muted tones and were used to filter light in a way that created a warm, inviting atmosphere. Incorporating stained glass windows into your kitchen will elevate the space with both beauty and nostalgia.

22. Charming Wooden Cupboards

In the 1910s, wooden cupboards were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Often handcrafted, these cupboards were built into the walls, offering substantial storage space for dry goods, utensils, and dishes. If you’re looking for a charming addition to your kitchen, consider wooden cupboards with glass-front doors to display your best china.

23. Mosaic Tile Details

While the 1910s were known for simple white subway tiles, many kitchens also featured mosaic tile accents around sinks, backsplashes, or even floors. These little colorful tiles brought a touch of personality to otherwise neutral spaces. Mosaic tiles, often in floral or geometric patterns, can add a distinct vintage flair to your kitchen.

24. Tiled Countertops

Another distinct feature of 1910s kitchens was the use of tiled countertops. White ceramic tiles were often used because of their ease of cleaning and durability. These tiled surfaces added texture and visual interest, creating a clean and crisp environment for food prep.

25. Victorian-style Light Fixtures

To light up the kitchen with elegance, many 1910s kitchens used Victorian-style chandeliers or gas-powered pendant lights. These fixtures often had intricate designs, with frosted glass or brass accents, adding a touch of grandeur to an otherwise humble space.

26. Simplicity with Elegant Details

The overall feel of the 1910 kitchen was one of elegance in simplicity. It wasn’t about over-the-top décor or excessive ornamentation but rather about creating a space that was both beautiful and functional. Simple details—like a well-placed vase, a set of neatly arranged bowls, or an artfully displayed stack of dishes—could elevate the design while maintaining a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

Conclusion

The 1910 kitchen was the epitome of functional beauty, where simplicity met craftsmanship and practicality intertwined with elegance. By embracing the elements of wood, metal, and enamel, you can recreate the timeless charm of this period in your own home.

Whether you’re drawn to the Craftsman style, the warmth of a farmhouse kitchen, or the elegance of vintage appliances, the 1910s kitchen has something to offer everyone. As you design your kitchen, think of it as more than just a cooking space—it’s an opportunity to bring a little slice of history into your daily life, blending the old with the new in a harmonious and functional way.