The Retro Thrift Find That Adds A Classy Decorative Touch To Your Kitchen

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If you've ever walked into a kitchen that's full of brand new appliances and white marble countertops yet which still feels cold, the problem is that it needs a few soft fixes that can change everything. You don't need to spend a fortune on knick-knacks and imported tea towels, however, because some of the best pieces aren't found in big box stores — they're waiting for you on the shelves of your local thrift store. Even if you're not an interior designer, there are certain pieces that can add a lived-in vibe to your kitchen and which are also easy to find secondhand. One such thrift store scores is vintage boxes made from marble, which can add a little luxury to any kitchen decor while keeping small objects corralled all in one place.

Decorative marble boxes have been around for centuries, but the versions you're most likely to come across probably come from the mid-to-late 20th century, that is, pieces that were popular with baby boomers and their parents from the 1950s to the 1980s, which are in thrift stores everywhere now that older generations are phasing out of large homes and getting rid of their stuff. In a modern kitchen, these pieces can look effortlessly chic and timeless (as opposed to some vintage trends that we'd like to leave in the past, like fluorescent lighting and textured ceiling), whether they're dressing up a countertop or perched on some open shelving. Let's look at some of the ways you can use a marble box in your kitchen, plus some tips on what to look for when you're at the thrift store.

In case you hadn't noticed, the world is awash in cheap plastic kitchen organizers. So if you're looking for a storage solution that looks timeless and not tacky, a thrifted marble box is a no brainer. These pieces each have their own natural veining and color variations, which add a ton of visual appeal and individuality to any kitchen. But they're not just there to look good. Marble boxes are perfect for storing all the little things that tend to make a kitchen feel cluttered.

If you have a junk drawer that's getting out of control, try using the box for stashing a few dedicated non-food items like match boxes, phone chargers, birthday candles, or a pad of Post-Its and pens to keep within easy reach. Fill smaller boxes with twist ties, rubber bands, or bag clips, while a larger box can hold recipe cards and a pencil. 

Since marble is all natural, you can also use boxes to organize non-perishable foods as long as they aren't acidic (the calcium carbonate can etch or stain from exposure to citrus fruit, tomatoes, or vinegar). If you have a coffee station, a box can hold sugar packets, tea bags, or even coffee pods if you find a large enough model. They also make stylish salt cellars, or you can use them to store some of your favorite spices, too.

If you're on the hunt for a marble box, there are some basic keys to look for. Most importantly, check the condition of the piece before you buy it. Take the lid off and look for any chips or cracks, and run your finger along the edges to check for any small imperfections — a small crack can turn into a big problem later. If the piece has any hinges or hardware, test them out a few times to see if they're secure. Also, it might sound simple, but be sure to pick the box up and check the weight. Real stone boxes should feel heavy, while replicas will feel much lighter. 

Aside from the quality, look for marble boxes that have some visual appeal that will stand out in your kitchen. Some pieces will have unusual colors or inlays that can make them more collectable. It's also good to know what the piece is worth before plunking down your hard-earned thrift dollars. Do some internet sleuthing on eBay and Etsy before you shop to get an idea of pricing, and try using Google image search while you're in the store to check the value of a piece before you buy. Keep in mind that prices can vary a lot from store to store, but the goal of thrifting is to find a piece that adds to your kitchen's look without breaking the bank.