Vintage Kitchen Style Inspired by the Great British Bake Off

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Alexandra works in the marketing department, and in 2014, bought her first house, which turned out to be somewhat of a ‘project’.
Since then, the whole house has needed renovating, which has helped her gain a knowledge of basic DIY, decorating and making the best of a small space.

By Alexandra Giles

Be star baker in your kitchen with style tips from the Great British Bake Off
Combine floral prints and vintage colours for a retro look
Look for vintage finds in vintage shops and fetes for an authentic look
Let a pretty floral cake stand filled with your bakes take centre stage

As a nation, we have all been captivated by The Great British Bake Off. Even if you aren’t lured in by the mouthwatering goodies created each week,

you can’t help but be enchanted by the series, not least because of its retro chic kitchen design. It is a quintessential slice of Britain at its finest, where summer fete meets cosy tea-room and the world is put to rights over a slice of cake and a cup of tea.

Past Meets Present

In start contrast to the uber sleek modern kitchens that many homes have today, there is no denying the charm and warmth that comes hand in hand with a vintage style kitchen. Even if the décor of your own kitchen is minimal with clean lines and crisp edges, it is not difficult to incorporate a British Bake Off vintage vibe, with a few, well chosen touches. vintage-baking

Don’t Let the Florals Grow Wild

The key to adding a retro spin to your space, without going over the top, is to stick to a ‘less is more’ rule. Whilst Cath Kidston’s stores look amazing packed with clashing florals and chintz, in the plain light of your own home, it can just look messy. A single stand-alone shelf or dresser of retro china can make a really striking feature, as can mis-matched prints on cushion covers, blinds and tea towels. Iconic KitchenAid mixers will fit into any kitchen (budget permitting!), as the classic style transcends the eras.

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Blue is the Colour

If you fancy going the full shebang and redesigning your kitchen into a vintage paradise, a good start is with the walls. Pale blue is the perfect backdrop for a retro revisit, and it is a great clean colour for a kitchen. If you don’t fancy painting the whole room blue, stick to a feature wall and bring out the colour throughout the room with accessories; you will be spoiled for choice as baby blue was a key colour in 1950’s design.

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Accessorise According to Taste

Another great way to introduce colour without the commitment of painting, is to hang coloured bunting around the room. Not only will it be cheery and bright, but it is also easily changeable as and when the mood takes you. Scour vintage shops for retro dressers that can be brought back to life with a lick of paint… Don’t forget that the distressed look is more authentic, so don’t worry about minor imperfections.

It’s All in the Detail

In homage to the Great British Bake Off, no retro kitchen is complete without a cake stand, complete with stacks of mouthwatering cakes and buns. You have achieved the perfect look, you’ve read the recipes, so it’s time to eat cake! Although, just because you have the vintage kitchen, with the traditional mixing bowls, KitchenAid mixers and aprons on display, it doesn’t mean that you have to actually bake them yourself!

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