If you’ve seen our projects before, it’s probably clear by now that SpaceCraft Joinery has a special love for mid-century modern design.

In fact, some of our favourite renovations are when the client has found inspiration in history’s architectural icons from the ’50s,’ 60s, or ’70s, and enlisted our help at bringing a 21st-century interpretation to life.

Here are five tips on how you can instil some of that mid-century inspired magic to your kitchen.

Embrace rich, natural timbers

Mid-century modern design finds its roots in nature — and nothing embodies this more than mid to rich-toned timbers like Teak or Tasmanian Blackwood. These timbers bring warmth, texture, and a distinct sense of character to any space. Rather than shying away from the natural variation in timber, celebrate it. Let the grain and tone shifts tell a story, giving your kitchen a unique presence.

Play with contrasts

Balance the organic warmth of timber with sleek, modern materials for that quintessential MCM contrast. Think clean-lined stainless steel, chrome accents, or textured glass paired with tactile elements like leather upholstery or woven fabrics. These combinations reflect the movement’s love for material interplay — refined yet expressive.

Lean into an earthy colour palette

Mid-century modern colour stories are rooted in the landscape. Olive greens, rusty reds, mustard and butter yellows. These nostalgic hues add depth and personality. Use them in splashback tiles, benchtop tiles, joinery, or through accessories like rugs and ceramics. Layer in lush greenery with indoor plants to complete the look and soften the edges.

Celebrate functional simplicity

One of MCM’s core principles is purposeful, unembellished design. When crafting your kitchen joinery, opt for flat-fronted cabinetry in timber with subtle, integrated handle details. The sculptural ‘wave’ handle, in its various interpretations, is an iconic example — beautiful in its simplicity and entirely functional.

Add a sculptural statement

No MCM-inspired kitchen is complete without a standout feature. Whether it’s a sculptural pendant light, a bold sunburst clock, or an organic art piece, these finishing touches anchor the space and add a layer of personality. Look for pieces that are as functional as they are beautiful — true to the era’s design ethos.

Additional moodboard credits (from left): Makenge Bowl from Pan After.  Optic Glass and Jug from Jam Factory. It is what it was, Wilcannia by Joshua de Gruchy from Brunswick Street Gallery. Barra Rojo Bowl from Pan After. Vintage Ceramic Glazed Pot from Florian Home. Sunburst Wall Clock by Vitra from Living Edge. Ichendorf Milano Tutu matte green bowl 2 Pcs Set from Florian Home. Green Vessel 1 by Em Frank from Brunswick Street Gallery. Pepper Grinder by Built Editions from Florian Home.

Visit The Design Directory for more expert advice, and discover our top picks in flooring, furniture, lighting, tiles, tapware and more!