Where to Buy Retro Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Retro metal kitchen cabinets are making a major comeback in home design. With their nostalgic charm and durable construction, it’s easy to see why these vintage-style cabinets are popular again. Here’s an in-depth look at where you can find and purchase high-quality retro metal kitchen cabinets to give your home a cool, retro vibe.

What Are Retro Metal Kitchen Cabinets?

Retro metal kitchen cabinets have a distinctive style typically dated back to the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. They are made from steel or aluminum and have a sleek, streamlined look. Common characteristics of retro metal kitchen cabinets include:

• Streamlined doors with clean lines and minimal ornamentation
• Vibrant retro colors like turquoise, yellow, pink, mint green or bright white
• Rounded corners and curved edging
• Sliding drawers and doors instead of hinges
• Metal legs or bases rather than traditional cabinet toes
• High-gloss finishes for a gleaming look
• Eye-catching hardware like round metal pulls or built-in finger grips

The overall aesthetic is colorful, clean, and simplistic, evoking mid-century modern style. These metal cabinets make a bold statement and add vintage character to any kitchen.

Where to Buy Retro Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Vintage and Antique Stores

Looking for authentic retro metal kitchen cabinets from the 1950s-1970s? Your best bet is to check local vintage or antique stores and flea markets. Mid-century cabinets in good restored condition can typically be found at vintage furniture shops and auction houses. Prices will vary depending on the age, quality, and style. Be prepared to hunt around, as finding mint-condition cabinets is getting harder. But part of the charm is giving an old, worn set new life with a fresh paint job or hardware.

Online Retailers

For more size and finish options, many online retailers now sell new reproduction retro metal cabinets. Here are some top places to shop online:

• Etsy – Lots of vintage sellers offering painted or refinished retro cabinets. Some also sell new custom reproductions. Great for finding unique color combinations or full matching kitchen sets.
• Wayfair – Carries multiple retro metal cabinet lines like SohoConcept and dCOR design. Features various colors and configurations. Free shipping on most orders.
• Home Depot – Stocks retro-inspired metal cabinet collections from Hampton Bay and ForeverMark. Typically lower prices than boutique designers. Provides wider selection for whole kitchen re-dos.
• Overstock – Great option for retro kitchen cabinets on a budget. Has modern reproductions by brands like Service Systems and UNC Kitchen Cabinets. Often runs sales and promotions.
• Amazon – Select sellers provide affordable retro-style cabinets in many colors and sizes. Look for top brands like Rev-A-Shelf and Hardware Resources. Amazon Prime shipping available.

Cabinetry Design Firms

For a full custom kitchen design using new retro metal cabinets, specialized cabinetry companies are a good choice. They can craft cabinets in any size, color and finish. Top custom cabinet brands for this style include:

• Snaidero – Made in Italy, ultra-high end repro retro designs. Offer stainless steel, colored aluminum and brass finishes.
• Classic Metal Cabinetry – Utah-based company focused exclusively on retro metal cabinet reproductions. Doors available in over 40 colors.
• Retro Designs – Canadian brand making steel cabinets in original 1950s styles and colors. Feature soft-close drawers and doors.
• Kokeena – CA designer offering custom reproductions of 1940s-70s formica and stainless steel cabinets.

While pricier than pre-made options, these companies give you the most flexibility to create a fully tailored retro kitchen.

What to Look for When Buying

To make sure you choose quality retro metal kitchen cabinets, keep these tips in mind:

• Carefully inspect condition of any vintage cabinets, checking for dents, rust and damage. Refinishing can restore but not fully repair major dents or corrosion.
• Confirm cabinets are made from powder coated steel or aluminum. Avoid cheaper tin reproductions which dent and scratch more easily.
• Look for sturdy 1-inch thick cabinet boxes and frames that won’t warp or bend over time.
• Test that doors and drawers open and close smoothly. Sliding mechanisms shouldn’t jam.
• Match hardware finish to the cabinet metal. Aged brass, chrome and nickel finishes suit retro style.
• Choose lead-free, environmentally-safe powder coated paint finishes. Ask about low-VOC options too.
• Buy from manufacturers that offer warranties on finishes, metals and workmanship. This ensures they stand behind their quality.

Achieving a Trendy Retro Look

The right mix of shapes, colors and styling gives a kitchen that quintessential 50s-70s vibe. Keep these design ideas in mind when planning your retro metal cabinet kitchen:

• Combine upper and lower cabinets in contrasting colors, like yellow uppers with turquoise lowers. This two-tone look defines the era.
• Position cabinets in uninterrupted clean lines for a streamlined look. Avoid ornamental trim or decorative legs.
• Go for glass-front uppers and open shelving for a breezy, casual feeling. Retro kitchens were designed for socializing!
• Incorporate retro oven and refrigerator styles like rounded edge Stoves from companies like Big Chill or Smeg. Their retro form matches the cabinet look.
• Use vintage-inspired hardware like round knobs or built-in handles. Stainless steel, chrome or two-tone metal suit the aesthetic.
• Paint the kitchen walls a bright, light neutral like light yellow, soft gray or robin’s egg blue to let the colorful cabinets pop.

FAQs About Buying Retro Metal Cabinets

Are original vintage metal cabinets or new reproductions better?

This depends on your goals. Genuine vintage cabinets have more patina and authenticity. But new cabinets let you customize sizes and finishes. Combining some original vintage lowers with new made-to-order uppers can give you the best of both worlds.

How much do retro metal kitchen cabinets cost?

Pricing varies widely. Simple vintage cabinets can cost $50-$300 per cabinet. New reproductions range from $100 per cabinet from basic retailers, up to $1000+ per cabinet from high-end designers. Full custom kitchens can easily total $10,000-$15,000.

Should I restore old cabinets or buy new?

Restoring and repainting vintage cabinets is less expensive than buying new, but requires more work. If the original bones and structure are solid, refinishing is usually worth it for the cost savings and vintage authenticity. Severely damaged or rusted originals won’t clean up well, making new a better investment.

Are reproduction retro cabinets lower quality than vintage options?

Not always. While vintage steel is heavier than today’s aluminum, new manufacturing techniques like powder coating and metal-joining actually make modern repro cabinets quite durable. Many companies offer solid warranties on new retro cabinets too. The key is finding a manufacturer that focuses on quality construction and materials.

What are the best paint colors for retro metal cabinets?

Retro kitchens showcase fun, bright hues like turquoise, yellow, mint green, pale pink and robin’s egg blue. Deeper tones like ruby red, sage green or navy blue also work well. Keep base cabinets lighter than uppers for contrast. High-gloss finishes reflect light and enhance the vibrant colors.

Give Your Kitchen a Stylish Vintage Vibe

Retro metal kitchen cabinets are a fabulous way to add mid-century flair and color to your cooking space. With vintage stores hunting, online shopping options and custom designers to choose from, you can find quality retro cabinets to fit any taste and budget. Just choose durable materials, vibrant retro colors, and iconic 50s-70s styling for a kitchen that makes a true vintage design statement.