As a regular new feature, I'll be deconstructing vintage kitchens - usually from vintage ads. I think there's a lot to learn about design from these 50s examples -- given the era, people were obsessed with design so incredible thought went into it!
This kitchen is a favorite, and led to some of my kitchen's features. Let's get to it, starting from the left:
1. Notice how the stainless steel storage cube is built into the wall. You can see it to the right of the curtained window as well. Great use of recessed wall space, but don't overdo it or you could end up with a very cluttered feel.
2. The soffit comes out just a tad beyond the wall cabinet. This is helpful, too, if your room is not square. If you're wallpapering, the pattern should run level on the bottom of the soffit, not the top.
3. Really cool how they raised the soffit above the sink. It creates a nice cozy 'nook' feeling in this much-used work area and moreover, allows for maximum picture window space.
4. Classic window treatments: Pinch pleats over a blind. Embrace your inner traverse rod! Also notice how they've mixed patterns - the fabric drapes are a vertical stripe, contrasted with the geometric wallpaper. Fabric really softens the coldness of steel cabinets BTW.
5. Picture window sets as low as possible. You'll get water on it from the sink, but light reins.
6. Super cool windows below the wall cabinets - if you can do it!
7. Warning: These cabinets hang too low, given the cooking surface below.
8. Warning: Put your HVAC at ground level, not in the soffit.
9. Very nice how the soffit comes out with the oven unit. You can do this above a fridge, too, if you don't have cabinets that work. I did this above my Sub-Zero and it looks great.
10. And of course: The wallpaper treatment. You can see how this clearly adds a sense of height to what appears to be an 8.5' ceiling.
If you've got the room in your bedroom or even your bath -- this would make for a fabulous addition. The listing says it's all metal, so it sounds quite substantial. And I love the label! I want it bad!!! 
I acquired this photo for a post on mid century wall-to-wall carpeting, but that will have to wait 'til later. Today's post is about arguably your most important retro reno room accessory: a Monsterosa Deliciosa plant!
I have one of these, exact same model, in my kitchen - and it is fantastic...really heavy duty, works great, and terrific looking. My ice crusher is white - but I also really love the color described here...sounds like a light chartreuse, which is a great mid-century color. For example -- scroll down two postings and see how well this would go with yesterday's eBay pick, the barkcloth curtains! Buy them both, and you've got a great basis for a new retro reno kitchen look!
One of the problem with my new eBay picks feature, is that I'm posting things I will probably want to buy - only driving up the price!
I've moved: Please see my dramatically improved site: RetroRenovation.com
Okay, so this isn't about renovation and restoration. But how can you not love Beatle Bobble Head dolls? My single regret in life is that I had a set, which I sold at a garage sale when I was 12. I liked The Monkees better. Alas. Fortunately, I don't think I had the tall ones, like this auction. Let's all watch and see how high they go! Love love me do!
This would look great over the sink, in the mudroom or laundry room, or in the center of the room if you have low ceilings and and don't want a hanging fixture over the kitchen table. 
This is just an incredible find! A 50s cabinet, mint in box, never been used, found in grandpa's attic. 
Last eBay listing for the weekend! I'll only list draperies if there are several pairs in one lot. That's because I've found that you need quite a few to piece together to fit your actual windows. Even at the starting price of $99 these seem like a good deal - for 10 total panels. The colors are terrific and if the barkcloth as listed is actually quite heavy, they are a great find!
These seem to be a great find at $299 - especially if you're nearby and go pick them up. I ADORE the color! The sinks look best on chrome legs - ask about that. If you're installing these in a retro reno - take a look at the vintage-colored tile from Olympia tile. This might look good with the Heron blue - or even speckled black-and-white! Yes - you can still get it!
This fabric collection from Maharam -- called Textiles of the 20th Century -- is fabulous! It features vintage design fabrics for upholstery and draperies taken from original design classics from mid century designers (and their early 1900s European forefathers) including: 
