In the early 20th century, many kitchens seemed to have the same look and color: white tile, white sinks, white floors, and white kitchen cabinets. Kitchen tables came in a couple of styles, either standard in design or drop-leaf for a more compact kitchen. In the larger houses, the kitchen table was made of wood, without finish, varnish or wax. The cook would use the kitchen table as the only surface to prepare food. Turkeys were dressed and stuffed at the kitchen table, and dough was also rolled out for many varieties of savory and sweet pies.
As times gradually changed, kitchen tables began to take on a new, more interesting look that contained color and even glamour. A veneer was added to the table top, called Formica, and the edges were made with chrome and other metals. The legs were also made of chrome and added sparkle and shine to the entire kitchen area. Kitchen tables of different shapes and sizes were also made. The old square, rectangular and round table was now being replaced by the oval shape, crescent shape and other creative styles.
Colors became more daring and white gave way to blue, yellow, red, green, and even patterns of squares or circles. The 1950s and 1960s saw a huge boom in this type of kitchen furniture, and although the style has changed over the years, this 1950s style is now being called ‘retro’ and is highly sought after. Retro imitation is available, of course, but picky eaters try to get an original item for that retro-style kitchen.
Kitchen designers were quick to adapt to the trend and demand for this retro furniture, and soon new creations based on the old designs hit the market. Even diners are getting in on the act, as more than one neighborhood can boast an original dining room with vinyl seating, chrome trim, and the all-important jukebox unit at every table.
To get an original retro kitchen table, one would have to be aware of all the thrift stores in their area. You would also need to visit the auction rooms and hope that something becomes available. Sometimes, of course, your kitchen table may no longer be in tip-top condition and need a facelift to bring it back to usable quality. But good pieces in excellent condition can be found if you look for them.
But the ideal retro kitchen table for most of us may be the knock-off items found in our modern furniture stores. There is nothing wrong with these items, and they fit nicely in our modern retro kitchen or dining room. New materials are used for the laminate tops, and the chrome for the rims and legs may come from a different part of the world than the original back in the 1950s. But, the quality is good, and the variety is probably better, due to the creative genius of designers who are able to visualize a new retro kitchen, with modern designs and colors.
The retro look is not limited to kitchen tables, as dinnerware, cabinet doors and knobs, and cookware are also available. So, if you’re looking for that great new old look for your kitchen, go for the ‘new’ retro look and be the admiration of your neighbors and friends.