The 1950s Style of Appliances
The American kitchen has had many looks over the decades, but none have captured the essence of the nuclear family or been recalled as fondly as that of the 1950s. Simple design and bold colors are the hallmark of 1950s appliances. Today, collectors hunt for these items to restore them, and designers look to these models as inspiration. Does this Spark an idea?
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General Trends
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Appliances in the 1950s featured clean lines, a kind of industrial look and often vivid colors. Appliances such as stand mixers and refrigerators were made of heavy steel or aluminum and coated in bright turquoise, green, yellow or red. Formica, vinyl and chrome were used on countertops, tables and chairs. In this age of prosperity and optimism many unitask appliances were created, such as milkshake mixers and plastic containers specific to individual items.
Refrigerators
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The 1950s design in refrigerators was simple, with one thick steel door held tight with a latch. Inside, a separate box served as the freezer, and with the high humidity of the interior, it had to be de-iced frequently. Although refrigerators were large, their design was more curved than those of today.
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Stoves, Ranges, and Ovens
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Ovens from the 1950s can still be found today, because they were made to last. Fashioned from steel and often coated in bright, bold colors, stoves and ovens of the 1950s were either gas or electric. Burners and ovens came in a range of sizes but were generally smaller than modern counterparts. It was not unusual to find ovens mounted into cabinetry and ranges on countertops, a trend that continues to be popular.
Advancements
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The 1950s saw a boom of simple, fun appliances. Snow cone machines, milkshake mixers and electric skillets can still be found in antique stores and are reminiscent of a more carefree time. Although a snow cone machine may not be all that safe to use today, showcase one on your kitchen counter, and admire your '50s find with a martini and cigarette, please.
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