Polka dot patterns are a favorite for retro dresses — so, how about for the blue countertop of a retro kitchen remodel? Bridget shows us how, with her recently completed new kitchen featuring a tropical blue countertop with a polka dot pattern from Wilsonart’s Virtual Design Library. Props for getting some real pattern on the floor, too! Let’s take a look at more of this personality-rich kitchen’s design features >>
Bridget wrote:
We bought our house two years ago as a “fixer upper”. The house was originally built in 1910, with its last renovation being a half finished DIY over 20 years ago.
I was OK with dealing with a janky kitchen for a couple years if it meant getting the kitchen of my dreams.
Blue polka dot kitchen countertops set the scene:
This year, I was finally able to go from Pinterest board to reality, and we demo’d the kitchen to its studs and built it back with the help of some brilliant contractors (REM Home Improvement located here in Lynden). The counter is Tropical Spot by Wilsonart, and the beautiful hardware on the cabinets and drawers are from the Lews Hardware Two Tone Collection in Robin’s Egg Blue.
I asked Bridget what friends and family thought of her polka dot countertops.
She said:
Family and friends were very apprehensive when I told them I was getting a robin’s egg blue polka dot countertop. But now that they’ve seen it, they absolutely love it! I have to admit that I was a little scared how it would turn out as well! Sometimes things don’t turn out how you envision them, like “would this read as mid-century or that I love clowns?”, but I’m relieved it’s better than I hoped.
Robin’s egg blue cabinet hardware repeats the key color scheme. Bridget’s resources:
Blue countertop: Wilsonart Tropical Spot laminate from their Virtual Design Library.- Metal countertop edging: Heffron’s retro banding
- Note, see my story: 6 places that make metal counter edge trim — stainless steel, aluminum, and faux
- Patterned flooring: Mannington Tapestry luxury vinyl tile sheet
- Backsplash tile: Bridget says these are off-the-big-box-shelf white glass subway tiles.
- Sink: Kohler Cape Dory Drop-in Cast Iron 33 in. 4-Hole Single Bowl Kitchen Sink in White
- Faucet: Kingston Brass
- Cabinetry: Sourced from a local hardware store/info on brand not available
- Blue cabinet knobs and pulls: Lews Hardware Metal Mushroom Knobs and Metal Bin Pulls in Robin’s Egg Blue
- Hanging pot rack: Elegant Designs Home Collection
- Yellow paint: Info on brand/color not available
- Curtains and hand towels: AVintageLook on Etsy
From “janky” to “whimsically wonderful” — that’s how I’d subtitle this wonderful kitchen transformation. Thank you, Bridget, for sharing your story, your photos, and your resources — and for setting a great example for taking a risk and choosing some real personality — blue polka dot countertops, hooray! — to one’s home.
Bette Jean says
Beautiful and fun kitchen. Floor reminds me of mine in th 80s that I loved so much that I put it in 2 houses. Pam, looking forward to meeting you in Scottsdale.
Cindy L. says
Is there an event in Scottsdale? Please share more. I’m a hop skip and a jump away.
Pam Kueber says
Cindy L: See this story >> https://retrorenovation.com/2019/01/23/arizona-tiki-oasis-talking-tiki-decor-here-i-come/
lynda says
I love the Lew’s Hardware knobs and bin pulls. I have the same ones in clear. I think you should look for some of the turquoise Pyrex baking dishes for the shelves. I have seen some new ones with the turquoise color. Or, of course you could look for vintage ones.
If you search the word turquoise on the Pyrex site they have some options–even a glass measuring cup with turquoise. Costco has a set online.
Joan massey says
It’s pretty and happy. I just painted my kitchen backsplash a bright aqua/green colour that you see a lot in mid century photos. I’m sure most of my friends won’t like it. Who cares! It makes me happy. Do what makes you happy!
lynda says
Very well done! I am sure you smile everyday when you see your kitchen. Good use of space above the peninsula. A pot rack is perfect for that space. Old homes can just be so cute!
MCM is Grand says
So happy to see a colorful kitchen! And I am so, so tired of hearing from TV, etc how we must decorate “neutral” – (dull) because of the fear of affecting perceived resale value. NO! We should enjoy our homes while we live there and decorate them as we like! Congratulations, Bridget! You did a wonderful job!
Love says
Love, love LOVE those countertops and the metal edge! Gorgeous. Well done!
Lisa says
Do the chrome canisters happen to be Lincoln Beautyware? I have a set myself in yellow and copper. Your kitchen looks wonderful! I absolutely love laminate countertops with metal edging!
Bridget says
They’re ChromeQueen! I found the set at a Goodwill for $6!
Jay says
Well done, complements the home’s age too! Clean lines yet exudes much homeyness (new word?) Like the coffee/tea station
Ms. Vel-Vida says
This kitchen is just cute as a button with the polka dot countertops! Love the flooring and the chrome canister set too. The yellow walls contrast nicely with the blue as well. I got a real kick out of the one “janky” before pic, the one with the wood shakes on the wall and paneling soffit. When I was a kid, one of my parents friend’s had those in their kitchen as a soffit, along with brown cabinets, faux wood paneling on the walls, brown vinyl chairs, butcher block Formica counters, some pattern of brown linoleum, and coppertone brown appliances….it was the brownest kitchen (or room for that matter) I’ve ever seen in my life!
Linda says
I LOVE the countertops! Good for you for taking the leap of faith and going for this look—it’s so cool! Kudos to you, Bridget!