Introduction
Metal kitchen cabinets have been around for decades, offering durable and stylish storage solutions for home cooks. Though metal cabinets may conjure images of sterile commercial kitchens, they have been popular in residential kitchens since at least the 1930s. Understanding the eras when metal kitchen cabinets were most widely used can provide insight into their evolution and help identify vintage styles.
The Rise of Metal Kitchen Cabinets: 1930s to 1950s
Metal kitchen cabinets first rose to prominence in the 1930s and became increasingly popular through the 1940s and 1950s. During the Depression era, metal was an affordable alternative to wood cabinets. Stamped steel cabinets emerged as a budget-friendly option for stocking kitchens in modest homes. The streamlined, minimalist look also aligned well with Art Deco styles of the 1930s.
As American manufacturing ramped up during World War II, metal kitchen cabinets exemplified wartime thrift and pragmatism. The clean, no-fuss look fit well with modern kitchen designs of the 1940s and 50s. Manufacturers like Youngstown, Gridiron, and Steel Kitchen Cabinets Company produced scores of metal kitchen cabinets during this era. Styles ranged from simple flat-front cabinets to more ornate curved “waterfall” fronts.
Height of Popularity: 1960s and 1970s
Metal kitchen cabinets reached the peak of their popularity in the 1960s and 70s. The Space Age design aesthetic emphasized sleek, futuristic looks that metal captured perfectly. Manufacturers created metal cabinet lines with tapered legs, geometric handles, and customizable mix-and-match cabinetry.
Brands like General Electric and Frigidaire introduced mass-produced metal cabinet lines that made thelook affordable for average families. Vibrant color palettes of avocado green, harvest gold, and burnt orange also grew trendy during this era. Metal kitchen cabinets became a fixture of mod, retro-style kitchens. Their sanitary, easy-care finishes also aligned well with a growing fascination with technology and efficiency.
Decline and Resurgence: 1980s to Today
By the 1980s, metal kitchen cabinets had fallen out of favor as wooden cabinetry regained popularity. Their utilitarian look became passe in an era that prized luxury and antiqued finishes. However, in recent years, mid-century modern styles have come back in vogue.
With this revival, metal kitchen cabinets are having a resurgence. Vintage metal cabinets from the 1940s-1970s are popular antiques and collectibles. Contemporary designers also take inspiration from mid-century modern metal cabinetry to create new retro-inspired looks. While no longer the mainstay of kitchen design, metal cabinets remain an iconic emblem of 20th century style.
Common Characteristics of Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Identifying vintage and retro metal kitchen cabinets is easier with some background on common styles and features:
- Flat paneled fronts – Many vintage metal cabinets have flat recessed panel fronts instead of curved doors. Beveled edges and rounded corners add subtle accents.
- Two-tone finishes – Combining two contrasting colors on the cabinet boxes and doors creates a retro two-tone look. Popular color combos include turquoise and white or yellow and black.
- Geometric handles – Distinctive triangular, round or squared metal handles add space-age flair. Recessed grooved or ridged finger pulls are also common.
- Tapered legs – For a lighter visual look, some retro cabinets have thin, tapered metal legs rather than a full base. This gives the impression of floating cabinets.
- Formica countertops – Durable plastic laminate countertops in colorful retro patterns complement vintage metal cabinets.
- Brand names – Look for manufacturersâ€TM names or logos, like General Electric, Westinghouse or Youngstown. This helps authenticate age.
Pros and Cons of Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets
For those considering using vintage metal cabinets, there are some important benefits and drawbacks to note:
Pros
- Inexpensive compared to new kitchen cabinets
- Durable and long-lasting
- Easy to clean and maintain
- Iconic mid-century style
- Environmentally friendly reuse
Cons
- May need repairs or restoration
- Limited size/color options
- Not as much storage flexibility
- May not fit seamlessly with other kitchen elements
- Difficult to paint or re-finish
Sourcing Vintage Metal Kitchen Cabinets
For shoppers seeking their own slice of mid-century style, vintage metal cabinets can often be found:
- At antique stores or architectural salvage yards
- Through classified ads or auction sites
- From individual sellers refurbishing vintage cabinets
- At estate sales or secondhand stores
- On mid-century modern focused online shops
Availability varies by region. Prices range widely based on condition, style and demand. Patience and persistence are often required to find enough cabinets to outfit an entire kitchen. But ultimately, vintage metal cabinets add a spirited touch of retro character.
Conclusion
Metal kitchen cabinets have a fascinating history reflecting changing tastes and trends over the decades. From thrifty wartime cupboards to space-age diners, they capture distinctive eras in kitchen design. With some diligent hunting, todayâ€TMs homeowner can bring these versatile cabinets back to life. A vintage metal kitchen breathes new spirit into a often-overlooked kitchen essential and brings the style of the past into the present day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What were some popular brands of vintage metal kitchen cabinets?
A: Some of the most popular vintage metal kitchen cabinet brands included General Electric, Frigidaire, Youngstown, Metal Kitchen Cabinets Inc., Cole Steel, Gridiron Steel Cabinets, Geneva Cabinet Company, and Steel Kitchen Cabinets Company.
Q: What colors were vintage metal kitchen cabinets?
A: Common color finishes for vintage metal kitchen cabinets included white, turquoise, yellow, green, pink, burgundy, copper tone, and chrome. Two-tone color combinations were also popular, like white cabinets with turquoise trim.
Q: Were metal kitchen cabinets cheaper than wood cabinets?
A: Yes, metal kitchen cabinets were generally a more budget-friendly option compared to solid wood cabinetry. The mass production of steel stamping made metal cabinets cost effective.
Q: How do you restore old metal kitchen cabinets?
A: To restore metal kitchen cabinets, clean thoroughly, sand out any scratches, prime, and repaint with a durable enamel paint for metal. Replace any rusted or damaged sections. You can also update with new retro-style hardware.
Q: Can you change the color of metal kitchen cabinets?
A: Metal kitchen cabinets can be painted, but require more preparation and primer than wood cabinets. Scuff sand, use a bonding primer, and finish with oil-based or cabinet-grade enamel paint for a durable finish. Avoid latex paints.