The 1950s began to see a splash of color in kitchens. The introduction of electricity meant that kitchen's could be more stream lined and functional. By this time almost every home in America had electricity, gone were the smell of early gas appliances, and the wood burning stove for cooking meals. The role of the kitchen was changing, where it once had to be just functional, it was beginning to be decorative.. As Americans began to make more money and with technology at it's height, the kitchen of the 50s began to reflective needs of growing families. The Geneva Kitchen shows light mint cupboards, a double stainless steel sink, a counter stove top and built in wall oven. This was considered ahead of its time. Notice the shine of the stainless steel oven, a style that has been popular in appliances in the last few years.
Open Shelving displays light turquoise cups matching the theme of the kitchen counters. A movable cart sits next to the table allowing extra storage space for meals, and a means to easily transport food and dishes from the table to the sink for easy clean up. The double stainless sink makes clean up easy and a white dishwasher means less time spent cleaning up.
Keeping food cold could be done in style with creative built ins. The stainless steel of these appliances was made to last. Kitchen design became popular in the 50s and designers appealed to the imagination of the American consumer. Homemaking was an art, women took pride in their homemaking skills, the home was their office and the kitchen was the hub of the home. It was an exciting time as innovative kitchen appliances and accessories were hitting the marketplace like never before.
White appliances and cupboards give this kitchen a bright look. Color was bright and fun. Yellow kitchen accessories make this kitchen pop. The chrome table and chairs in vibrant colors was becoming all the rage. I love 50s kitchens mostly because it is the introduction to color being used.
50s kitchens were planned for efficiency, for moving around the kitchen with ease. Time and labor saving, they looked decorative and homey. Because this is often where a woman spent the most time in her home, the kitchen began to be a place where a woman could focus on home decor and make the kitchen an inviting place to spend time. There is something nostalgic as I look back at the way of life during this time period. And while I am all for women's rights... to be able to stay at home and keep the home fires burning is something I would have loved to be able to do.
The 50s kitchen also became larger, more open and spacious. While formal dining rooms were still popular, the larger kitchen designs allowed for plenty of space for family and friends to enjoy a meal. This allowed the hostess to spend time with guests as she was preparing the meal. Colored appliances were also available on the market, adding even more color to the kitchen.
I find the 50s kitchen to be inspiring in so many ways. Adding that retro touch with modern accessories combines the best of the traditional with the modern, creating a look that is not only pleasing to the eye, but unique.The retro look is always fun as it has a modern twist. If you enjoy retro check out 70s living rooms, that is a blast from the past!
No comments:
Post a Comment