5 vintage pieces every kitchen should have, according to designers

There are so many beautiful ways to decorate your kitchen, but nothing adds character and unique style like vintage pieces. And according to designers, there are a few key pieces that no cooking space should be without.

While vintage kitchen ideas are a beautiful place to start, there are smaller ways to decorate with vintage in the kitchen that can be introduced to spaces of every style. From small decorative items to larger vintage furniture, there are so many pieces that can make a stylish impact.

But what are the must-have items? I asked interior designers which vintage pieces they think every kitchen needs, and their answers offer the perfect variety of characterful additions.

5 vintage pieces every kitchen should have, according to designers

There are so many reasons interior designers recommend bringing vintage pieces into your kitchen. They are not only more unique and characterful than contemporary designs, but they are also one of the easiest ways to make a modern kitchen feel older.

Take a look at the most coveted vintage trends for 2025 to gain an idea of what styles and eras to have on your radar – and take note of these vintage pieces designers say every kitchen should have for a characterful scheme.

1. A vintage butcher's block or prep table

When you think about adding decor to your kitchen, your mind probably goes to the smaller, more decorative items. But sometimes, it's the larger, more statement features that can have the biggest impact.

'I always love incorporating a vintage butcher block table or antique prep table into a kitchen. There’s something incredibly soulful about a piece that has seen generations of use; the knife marks, the weathered patina, the quiet history embedded in the grain,' says Vyanca Soto, of Market Studio Interiors.

'In a world where so much feels polished and new, a vintage butcher block brings warmth, authenticity, and a tactile richness that instantly grounds a kitchen. It reminds you that kitchens aren’t just places to cook, they’re places to gather, create, and live.'

2. Vintage glass and ceramics

For many people, bringing in vintage pieces is more about decor, and glass and ceramic pieces are the perfect choice. They can be displayed on kitchen shelving, mantels above a range cooker, and even on your kitchen countertops.

'We love incorporating vintage glass bottles and ceramics – especially when repurposed as vases. These pieces are perfect for displaying cut garden stems, dried florals, or even kitchen tools,' says Kailee Blalock and Taylor Troia, founders of House of Hive Design Co.

'One of our absolute favorites is a classic seltzer bottle. They bring such a cool quality, elevating a counter vignette or open shelf. Whether it's a vibrant colored glass or a muted, aged metal mesh, they feel collected and nostalgic in the best way. We often style them alongside cookbooks, candles, or fresh herbs,' they add.

3. Antique and vintage plate racks

One of the most authentic ways to bring vintage into the kitchen is to choose pieces that once would have been a staple feature in a cooking space. Think of it as bringing back a traditional feature.

'Antique plate racks are another go-to,' says Kailee and Taylor. 'When we see one, we immediately think of the dreamy, slightly whimsical kitchen from Practical Magic (designed by Roman and Williams), which is a major inspiration for us when we’re thrifting or curating layered, charming kitchen spaces. They add such a grounded, old-world feel.'

This is also a great option in small kitchens, where full sized upper cabinets can make the space feel more compact – a vintage plate rack adds extra storage in a less intrusive and utterly stylish way.

4. Brass vintage lighting

You can also introduce a touch of vintage through the more essential aspects of your kitchen. From vintage kitchen hardware to add charm and character to your cabinetry to introducing vintage fixtures in place of your regular kitchen lighting ideas, they can be a more fun and less expected way to decorate.

'I always love to incorporate vintage lighting with brass details. It brings a timeless elegance and subtle warmth to the space. The aged brass patina adds depth and a soft glow that contrasts beautifully with modern finishes,' says Elizabeth Mollen, of Stone Textile Studio.

'It’s a simple way to introduce character and a sense of history without overwhelming the design. I’d style vintage brass lighting above a kitchen island or dining nook, pairing it with fun textures like stone or fabric.'

5. Vintage tableware and drinkware

Of course, decorating with vintage pieces that would have belonged in the kitchen is the best way to elevate your space, so why not look to the pieces you use day in, day out?

'Of course, vintage mugs, dishes, and silverware are staples as well. We always encourage clients to lead-test vintage dishware before everyday use, but there’s nothing like the delicate patterns or weighty feel of a well-made antique,' says Kailee and Taylor.

'And vintage silverware is a favorite of ours – the detail, craftsmanship, and patina just can’t be replicated in modern sets,' they add, all of which look truly beautiful displayed on open shelving or inside glass-fronted kitchen cabinets.

There's no denying that decorating with antiques and vintage pieces is the perfect way to add character and unique style to your kitchen. Whether you opt for larger items like a butcher block or smaller decorative ceramics, no space is too small for these pre-loved designs.

Be mindful of the things you buy second-hand and vintage, though – it's worth reading up on the kitchen items you should never buy at a thrift store or vintage market before curating your space.

And if you don't have any vintage or antique stored nearby, there are loads of places to buy vintage furniture online, as well as smaller decorative items that are perfect for your kitchen.