When A/Typical Design Studio partnered with Lisa Harrison of MCM Rescue to restore a neglected 1950s home, they weren’t just renovating. They were preserving history. Lisa, a mid-century architecture enthusiast, is always on a mission to rescue and restore vintage homes that might otherwise be torn down. This particular home was in serious disrepair, with a collapsed roof and even squirrels calling it home. But for A/Typical, the opportunity was too good to pass up. 

One of the most exciting transformations was the modern green kitchen that became the heart of the house. 

Photography: @newburger_

Honoring the Past, Designing for the Present 

From the start, the design team was committed to maintaining the home’s mid-century character while creating something truly unique. “We love to take risks and imagine things our clients wouldn’t come up with on their own,” the team said. “And we aren’t afraid of color.” For this project, they wanted the kitchen to feel retro, playful, and above all, livable for a modern family. 

The original plan was to go all-in on avocado green paired with matching vintage-inspired appliances. But in the small, east-facing kitchen, it felt too gloomy. That’s when Dirty Martini came into the picture. The soft, upbeat green struck the perfect balance. It was light enough to keep the space feeling fresh but still rooted in the mid-century vibe. 

“We always leaned toward green,” they explained. “But when we found Dirty Martini, we knew it was the one. Plus, the name totally sealed the deal for a mid-mod house.” 

The Color Story 

Dirty Martini set the tone for the rest of the materials in the space. The green kitchen cabinets are paired with locally sourced pink and yellow stone countertops, bringing in unexpected warmth. Custom terrazzo floors were poured throughout the home, blending terracotta, pinks and yellows to create a cohesive, era-appropriate color palette that flows beautifully from room to room. 

One of the designers’ favorite features is the pantry, which hides a surprise pop of color inside. It is a playful detail that speaks to the team’s creative, risk-taking spirit. They also added curved cabinets on either side of the range for a touch of softness and smart storage. 

Tips for a Modern Green Kitchen 

Designing with color can feel intimidating, especially in a kitchen where the finishes tend to be more permanent. But this project proves that with the right approach, bold choices can create a space that feels timeless, functional and full of personality. Here are a few key takeaways from A/Typical Design Studio to inspire your own kitchen project: 

• Play with light: In a space with limited natural light, like this east-facing kitchen, opt for brighter greens to keep things feeling open and inviting. 
• Layer complementary tones: The team paired green cabinets with warm, retro-inspired finishes to create a lively but balanced palette. 

This home may have started as a rescue project, but thanks to the power of thoughtful design and the perfect green paint, it became a modern, colorful celebration of mid-century style.