What Year Was Metal Kitchen Cabinets Made
Metal kitchen cabinets have been popular choices for kitchen designs for decades. Tracing the history of metal cabinets can help us understand what makes them such a classic and versatile option. In this article, we’ll explore the origins and evolution of metal kitchen cabinets over the years.
A Brief History of Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Metal cabinets first became popular in the 1930s and 1940s. During this time, steel cabinets were introduced as a durable and affordable alternative to wood cabinets. The streamlined, industrial look of metal complemented the Art Deco and Modernist interior design trends of the era.
However, it wasn’t until the 1950s and 1960s that metal kitchen cabinets really took off. These decades saw huge growth in suburban single-family homes, and housewives wanted low-maintenance, easy-to-clean options for their kitchens. Metal was the perfect material for achieving this efficient, contemporary aesthetic. Common metal cabinet finishes included stainless steel, enameled steel, and aluminum.
Popular Styles and Features
Some of the most iconic metal kitchen cabinet styles emerged during the 1950s-60s period:
- Stainless steel cabinets – Sleek and modern, these were often used for high-end, commercial-inspired kitchens. Stainless steel resists corrosion, stains, and fingerprints.
- Retro metal cabinets – Steel cabinets with colorful enamel finishes in pink, turquoise, yellow, etc. epitomized the cheerful, retro style of mid-century modern.
- Aluminum cabinets – Lightweight aluminum was affordable and could be finished to look like more expensive metals. Anodized aluminum finishes added durability.
- Hoosier-style cabinets – The quintessential built-in cabinet/work station included specialized racks, drawers, and a fold-down work surface in one metal unit.
- Dinette sets – Many 1950s dinette sets featured metal cabinets and drawers integrated into the table design.
- Curved corners and edges – Metal cabinets sported rounded corners and door edges for a sleek, space age look.
- Recessed cabinet handles – Discreet, flush mounted handles maintained the uninterrupted lines of metal cabinetry.
The 1970s and Beyond
By the 1970s, wood cabinets regained dominance in kitchen design. However, metal cabinets never disappeared completely and were re-interpreted in new styles:
- The industrial, urban loft look revived interest in stainless steel.
- Metal cabinets were mixed with other materials like wood or glass for an eclectic look.
- Brushed metal finishes became popular for a softer, more modern effect.
- New metal alloys offered more choices like nickel, copper, and bronze finishes.
Today, metal remains a versatile kitchen cabinet option appreciated for its durability, affordability, ease of cleaning, and sleek style. Manufacturers keep the material fresh with updated colors, finishes, and creative combinations with other materials.
Metal cabinets are here to stay as innovative new designs build on the classic appeal and functionality of this material.
Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Kitchen Cabinets
When were the first metal kitchen cabinets introduced?
The first metal kitchen cabinets emerged in the late 1920s and 1930s. Steel cabinets were an early affordable alternative to wood. However, metal cabinets did not gain widespread popularity until the 1950s.
What were mid-century metal kitchen cabinets made of?
The most common metals used for 1950s-1960s kitchen cabinets were steel, stainless steel, aluminum, and sometimes copper or bronze. Steel cabinets were typically coated in enamel finishes.
Why were metal cabinets so popular in the postwar era?
The sleek, retro style and affordable pricing made metal cabinets popular choices for suburban homes in the 1950s and 60s. Their easy-care finishes also appealed to housewives wanting low-maintenance kitchens.
What are some signature styles of vintage metal cabinets?
Some iconic metal cabinet styles of the 1950s-60s include stainless steel cabinets, retro enamel-coated steel cabinets, hoosier cabinets, dinette sets with integrated metal cabinets, and cabinets with curved edges.
Are antique metal cabinets valuable today?
Yes, well-preserved vintage metal kitchen cabinets from the mid-20th century can be very valuable today. Retro enamel-coated steel cabinets in good condition and rare styles like hoosiers can sell for several thousand dollars.
How can you incorporate metal cabinets in modern kitchens?
Modern uses of metal cabinets include stainless steel for an industrial look, mixing metals with wood or glass fronts, using brushed metal finishes, and choosing updated metal colors like copper, bronze and nickel tones.
Conclusion
Metal has been an integral part of kitchen cabinet design for almost a century now. From their origins in the 1930s as affordable alternatives to wood cabinets, metal cabinets really rose to prominence in the postwar suburban housing boom of the 1950s and 60s. Iconic styles like retro enamel-coated steel, hoosier cabinets, and sleek stainless steel epitomized the streamlined, modernist look of the era.
Although wood cabinets regained popularity in later decades, metal never went away completely. Metal continues to be re-imagined in new finishes, combinations, and styles that build on its durable, easy-care appeal. For kitchen designers, metal remains a versatile and adaptable material with timeless retro roots and an ever-evolving future.
