Introduction
Metal kitchen cabinets represent a classic and durable choice for kitchen storage and design. Usually made from steel, metal cabinets were hugely popular in the middle of the 20th century. Their sleek, retro look is also appealing to many homeowners today looking to add a vintage flair to their kitchens.
While wood cabinets have dominated kitchen cabinetry in most eras, metal cabinets have woven in and out of mainstream popularity through the decades. Understanding the eras when metal kitchen cabinets were most trendy can help contextualize their place in kitchen design history.
The Height of Popularity: 1930s to 1950s
The period from the 1930s to 1950s was the peak era for metal kitchen cabinets in the United States. During the 1930s, the streamlined designs of Art Deco and Moderne styles featured metal furnishings like kitchen cabinets as emblematic of the era.
The economic challenges of the Great Depression and World War II also made affordable metal cabinets an attractive option for many households. Metal was seen as a modern, durable, and economic choice for cabinetry. The industrial appeal of metal also dovetailed well with mid-century styling in the 1940s and 1950s.
Brands like Youngstown Metal Kitchens capitalized on the popularity of metal in these decades. Their stamped steel cabinets came in a range of styles and colors like turquoise, pink, yellow, and robin’s egg blue to match retro kitchens.
The Decline: 1960s to 1980s
By the 1960s, metal kitchen cabinets fell out of favor as the dominant kitchen cabinetry material. The rise of wood veneers and laminates meant manufacturers could mimic the elite look of solid wood for less cost than genuine timber. Wood grain and other patterned laminates aligned well with the era’s avocado, harvest gold, and rustic kitchen design schemes.
The 1983 debut of Thomasville’s KraftMaid line at Home Depot signaled the mass adoption of stock kitchen cabinetry in affordable wood laminates. Metal cabinets were seen as outdated or cheap compared to the expanding wood and laminate options available. Only a niche market still appreciated the retro appeal of metal kitchen cabinets from the mid-1900s by the 1980s.
The Revival: 1990s to Today
The antiqued patina and retro styling of vintage metal cabinets has seen several revivals since the 1990s. Restored antique metal cabinets from the 1940s or 1950s can fetch premium prices among collectors and designers.
Reproduction metal cabinet companies like Amko Kitchens, Retro Designs, and Signature Hardware have also emerged to offer new cabinets with classic metal styling. Their cabinets are made to emulate the details of high-end vintage metal kitchens.
Additionally, minimalist and industrial interior design trends have renewed interest in metal finishes for kitchen components like cabinets. Instead of being seen as dated or cheap, the sleek and unfussy look of metal cabinets aligns with these contemporary aesthetics.
While not as mainstream as decades past, metal kitchen cabinets now attract an enthusiastic niche following drawn to their durability, vintage styling, and alignment with some modern and industrial design elements. Their place in kitchen cabinet history is an interesting evolution from essential housing material to symbol of bygone eras.
Key Eras for Metal Kitchen Cabinets
- 1930s: Metal kitchen cabinets gain popularity due to sleek Art Deco styling and economic challenges of Great Depression
- 1940s: Retro appeal of metal grows thanks to industrial and streamlined aesthetics
- 1950s: Era of mass-produced metal cabinet lines like Youngstown Metal Kitchens
- 1960s: Metal cabinets fall out of favor as wood veneers and laminates dominate
- 1970s and 1980s: Metal seen as outdated compared to wood grain laminate options
- 1990s to Today: Vintage metal cabinets revived among collectors and niche market
Benefits of Metal Cabinets
While no longer mainstream, metal kitchen cabinets still have inherent qualities that make them an appealing choice for many homeowners today.
Durability
Metal cabinets are extremely durable and can often last for generations with proper care. Many vintage metal cabinets from the 1930s-1950s are still in use today. The tough steel construction withstands heavy usage and resists dents or scratches.
Easy to Clean
Metal cabinet surfaces wipe down easily without absorbing spills or smells. Their non-porous quality makes metal cabinets ideal for messy kitchens.
Retro Styling
For those looking for a vintage or industrial feel, metal cabinets offer instantly recognizable retro flair. The details like curved corners or chrome hardware add to the nostalgic styling.
Cost-Effective
Metal cabinets can also be an economical choice. Steel cabinets generally cost less than solid wood options. Quality metal cabinets give a similar refined look for a smaller investment.
Style Ideas and Inspiration
For those interested in incorporating metal kitchen cabinets, there are a few key styles to consider:
Restored Antique Cabinets
Search for vintage cabinets from desired eras like the 30s-50s. Look for charming retro details like curved fronts or bakelite knobs. Handle restoration carefully to maintain the antiqued appeal.
Reproduction Retro Cabinets
For newly manufactured cabinets with a retro vibe, companies like Amko Kitchens offer metal cabinets replicating historic details. Go for classic hues like mint green, pale yellow, or turquoise.
Industrial Modern Cabinets
Modern metal cabinets tend to have a streamlined, minimalist look. Stainless steel paired with wood countertops makes an edgy industrial style statement.
Mixed Material Combinations
Use metal cabinets as an accent. Mix them with painted wood cabinets for an eclectic look. Opt for lighter hues to keep the palette fresh and bright.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical features of vintage metal kitchen cabinets?
Vintage metal cabinets from the 1930s-1950s often have details like curved corners, wraparound hinges, chrome wire hardware, enamel or painted finishes, and bakelite knobs. Stamped steel construction was common.
Where can I find vintage metal cabinets to restore?
Check antique stores, salvage yards, online auctions, estate sales, and sites like Craigslist. Be prepared to hunt for cabinets in good restorable condition, or that still have intact hardware and accessories.
How much do new metal cabinets cost compared to wood?
On average, new metal cabinets range from $1,500-4,000 for an installed kitchen, while regular plywood boxes with wood veneer doors run $5,000-8,000. Higher-end wood cabinets with solid wood doors can be $10,000+.
How durable are metal kitchen cabinets?
Properly maintained vintage steel cabinets have easily lasted 80-100 years. New metal cabinets also typically have a lifespan of 20-30 years minimum. The tough steel construction resists dents, warping, and wear better than wood over time.
What are good paint colors to pair with metal cabinets?
For a retro look, pair metal cabinets with lighter tinted colors like mint green, coral, turquoise, pink, or yellow. For modern kitchens, paint the walls a crisp white or light gray. Richer tones like navy also create an appealing contrast with metal’s neutral palette.
Conclusion
Metal kitchen cabinets have a fascinating history shifting in and out of favor over time. Their peak popularity came in the sleek retro era of the 1930s-1950s. While no longer a dominant choice, metal continues to appeal to homeowners wanting a durable, affordable, and vintage-inspired kitchen. From restored antiques to reproductions to modern stainless pieces, metal cabinets offer timeless appeal. Understanding the history and benefits helps contextualize the role metal cabinetry can play in today’s kitchens.