Where to Buy Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets

Vintage metal kitchen cabinets can add a unique retro flair to any kitchen design. With their charming, old-fashioned styling, these cabinets stand out from the crowds of sleek, modern kitchen cabinetry. While vintage metal cabinets may take more effort to find, they are well worth seeking out to create a one-of-a-kind kitchen. Here is an in-depth guide on where to buy vintage metal kitchen cabinets.

Online Retailers Specializing in Vintage Furniture

One of the best places to find vintage metal kitchen cabinets is online retailers that specialize in selling antique and retro home furnishings. These businesses actively source vintage items from auctions, estate sales, and salvage yards, refurbishing them for resale. They offer curated selections of vintage metal cabinets, from full sets to individual pieces.

Sites like Chairish, Etsy, and Ruby Lane have broad inventories of vintage metal kitchen cabinets from various eras. When browsing their selections, you can filter by style, material, color, and dimensions to find the perfect vintage cabinets for your kitchen. While their inventory changes rapidly, these sites often get new vintage metal cabinet listings daily, so bookmarking them is worthwhile.

The advantage of using these sites is you can buy vintage metal cabinets already pre-inspected and restored without leaving home. Their delivery services bring the vintage cabinets right to your door.

Classified Listings Sites

Classified listings sites like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace are go-to spots to find vintage metal kitchen cabinets being sold locally. People often list vintage cabinets they are removing from homes, selling items from estate sales, or downsizing collections.

Browsing under keywords like “vintage,” “antique,” “retro,” and “metal kitchen cabinet” yields lots of listings. You can search locally by city or zip code to find cabinets within driving distance. The selection is always changing as people add and remove listings. Checking back regularly can uncover newly posted vintage finds.

The benefit of classified sites is you can negotiate prices and avoid shipping costs by picking up locally. Inspecting items in person before purchasing also allows you to scrutinize condition and quality.

Auctions

For treasure-hunters seeking vintage metal kitchen cabinets, auctions can be an exciting source. Both live and online auctions may feature these cabinets as part of household estate sales. Auction houses also get consignments from antique dealers and individuals looking to sell valuable vintage items.

Some tips when browsing auctions for vintage metal cabinets:

• Search auction house listings and catalogs under keywords like “vintage,” “retro,” and “antique” furniture.
• Check out preview times to inspect cabinets in person before bidding.
• Determine if you need to pick up items locally or can arrange shipping.
• Research auction estimates and set bidding limits beforehand.

While auction sourcing takes more effort, the payoff of scoring a great deal on quality vintage cabinets can be rewarding.

Architectural Salvage Warehouses

Architectural salvage warehouses are fantastic places to uncover vintage metal kitchen cabinets. These enormous warehouses receive salvaged materials from old houses, buildings, and demolition sites. Shelves are stacked with doors, lighting, hardware, and architectural relics ripe for reuse.

Salvage warehouses can have dozens of vintage metal cabinets rescued from abandoned homes and restaurant kitchens. Styles range from quirky diners to stately restaurant cabinets. Prices are usually a fraction of antique store prices.

Be prepared to dig through overstuffed aisles in search of hidden vintage gems. The treasure hunt is part of the fun. Be sure to examine any vintage cabinets for repair needs before purchase.

Antique Shops and Malls

Visiting local antique shops and malls can turn up great vintage metal cabinet finds. Reputable antique dealers source and restore vintage kitchen cabinets, from full matching sets to one-of-a-kind pieces. Styles range from simple Shaker to bold 1950s retro.

The benefit of antique shops is being able to see vintage cabinets in person, allowing you to inspect condition, quality, and workmanship. Antique dealers also have expertise in furniture history that helps date pieces.

Ask antique dealers about their incoming inventory – they may know about vintage metal cabinets coming soon that match your preferences. Be prepared to pay higher prices for professionally restored pieces.

Estate Sales

Estate sales can provide opportunities to purchase vintage metal cabinets as homeowners liquidate belongings. These cabinets may come from a kitchen remodel or belong to a collector. Estate sales tend to price items lower than retail to quickly sell the contents of a home.

It helps to research upcoming estate sales in your area and scan their listings for any mention of vintage cabinets. You may also have luck inquiring about unlisted cabinets when attending sales. Be prepared to act quickly, as the best vintage pieces sell out fast. Examining any cabinets on-site is advised before purchasing.

Salvage Yards

Salvage yards contain architectural scraps and discarded furnishings from homes, businesses, and construction sites. They can be a source of vintage metal kitchen cabinets rescued before ending up in a landfill.

Salvage yards require time and tenacity to comb through, but you may uncover cabinets with minor repairs needed at bargain prices. Call local salvage yards to ask what vintage kitchen cabinets they currently have in stock. Be sure to inspect any vintage find for restoration needs before purchasing.

Where to Buy Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets – FAQ

How much do vintage metal kitchen cabinets cost?

Vintage metal kitchen cabinets pricing can vary widely depending on seller, style, condition, age, and restoration needs. On the lower end, you may pay $100 – $300 per cabinet at auctions, estate sales, or salvage yards. Expect to pay $300 – $1000+ per cabinet when purchasing from antique dealers, specialty vintage retailers, or fully restored sets.

What are the most common metal types used in vintage kitchen cabinets?

Steel, iron, and aluminum are the most prevalent metals found in vintage kitchen cabinetry. Look for tinplate cabinets in retro 1950s styles. Cast iron and porcelain enamel finishes were popular in the 1920s and 30s.

Should I refinish or re-paint vintage metal cabinets?

Some people prefer to keep the aged patina of original paint or finishes on vintage cabinets. For others, refinishing or repainting provides a fresh, clean look. Talk to a refinishing expert about the best options for your vintage metal cabinets.

How do I determine the era of vintage metal cabinets?

Examining the style and materials provides clues to a vintage cabinet’s origins. Simple shaker cabinets with visible hinges suit early 20th century kitchens. Rounded corners and pastel colors reflect 1950s style. Look for manufacturer markings to identify the cabinet brand and date.

What are the best tips for styling a kitchen with vintage metal cabinets?

Lean into the retro vibe with era-appropriate accents like vintage hardware, lighting, and accessories. Add charm with glass-front cabinets to display dinnerware. Infuse some modern conveniences like updated sink fixtures and kitchen appliances. Create a harmonious balance of old and new elements.

Conclusion

Vintage metal kitchen cabinets inject warmth, character, and craftsmanship into any kitchen design. Taking the time to seek out these rare vintage gems can lead to finding statement pieces that make your kitchen shine. Follow this guide to the top places to source quality vintage metal cabinets for your home, whether in-person or online. Soon you will be cooking and entertaining in a spectacular retro-inspired kitchen space.