Stainless steel may be all the rage today when it comes to the kitchen, but there’s a subtle movement under way that’s ushering in thoroughly modern appliances and fixtures with retro appeal. “A lot of home owners want their kitchen to look like it’s filled with pieces they’ve put thought into and collected over time,” says Amy Aenchbacher, design coordinator for Living Spaces Studio in Atlanta, Ga. Oil-rubbed bronze-finished faucets, ranges reminiscent of a 1930s icebox, and industrial mixers in retro colors are just a taste of what awaits home owners who are looking for a functional blast from the past.

Fair faucet. The Fairfax single-control faucet by Kohler may speak of a simpler time, but it’s packed with modern niceties, including a pull-down sprayer. “It’s oil-rubbed and bronze finished, so it’s got that vintage appeal,” says Aenchbacher. $453.15; us.kohler.com

Classic cooking. While the Aga may appear vintage, its cooking power is anything but. The cast-iron cooker comes in two-, four-, or six-oven models, and options include radiant heat ovens, hot plates, and warming plates. $5,575; aga-ranges.com

In the mix. The KitchenAid mixer’s industrial appearance is softened with playful hues ranging from green apple and pistachio to gloss cinnamon and tangerine. $349.99; kitchenaid.com