In a quiet neighborhood in Madrid, a family has achieved what many consider almost impossible: transforming a kitchen from the seventies into a modern and stylish “vintage chic” kitchen with a very limited budget. With just 1500 euros, the owners have made a series of renovations and changes that have surprised both neighbors and interior design experts.
The original kitchen, characterized by dull-colored tiles and worn-out furniture, was functional but unattractive. The family, who had always had a special love for retro design, decided it was time to give this important space in the home a new life. The goal was to create a kitchen that combined antique elements with contemporary touches, without spending a fortune.
One of the first steps was to paint the kitchen cabinets. Instead of replacing them, they chose to sand them down and apply a layer of chalk paint in a soft mint green tone, giving it a fresh and renewed look. The rusty handles were replaced with aged brass ones, acquired at a local flea market, achieving a retro look without being opulent.
The next challenge was to modernize the floor without incurring large expenses. The solution came in the form of self-adhesive vinyl tiles with a black and white geometric pattern, which are not only affordable but also easy to install. This change provided a fabulous contrast with the green cabinets and added a touch of elegance to the space.
The appliances, although not entirely replaced, underwent a clever “upcycling”. The old refrigerator was covered with adhesive film that mimics stainless steel, and some small appliances, such as the toaster and coffee maker, were painted to match the new color palette.
Another economical but effective addition was the use of open shelving. Instead of adding expensive new cabinets, the family decided to install some shelves made of recycled wood, which not only offer a practical storage solution but also bring warmth to the final design.
To top it off with a “chic” touch, an industrial-style pendant lamp was added, along with some decorative elements such as retro potted plants, glass jars for spices, and a chalkboard for writing down recipes and shopping lists.
According to the owners, the key to success lay in careful planning and the search for creative and economical alternatives. “We wanted to show that it’s not necessary to spend a large amount of money to have a beautiful and functional kitchen. You just need a little imagination and a lot of attention to detail,” commented Carmen, the matriarch of the family.
The transformation has sparked a wave of inspiration among neighbors, who now see that it’s possible to give new life to old spaces without breaking the bank. Thus, this Madrid family has demonstrated that with ingenuity and dedication, a seventies kitchen can become the vintage chic heart of a modern home.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
