The 1950's optimism and positive outlook was reflected in the decor.
The 1950s were an optimistic time: the war was over, the economy was booming and televisions and rock 'n roll offered fun new forms of entertainment. Creating your own retro kitchen is relatively easy; retro '50's kitchen furniture and accessories are easy to find because of the popularity of the style. A '50's kitchen is an uplifting, fun place to come home to and unwind and relax in.
Color Scheme
A 1950's design is open and airy. Black and white checkered flooring was widely-used and creates an authentic '50s diner feel. Yellow, red, hot pink, mint green and turquoise were all common colors and were often combined for an over-the-top, almost garish effect. If you're not quite ready for such an effect, team black and white checkered flooring with neutral-colored walls, and add the brighter colors into the room with furniture and accessories.
Furniture
Booth seating creates an authentic diner feel.
Formica, vinyl and molded plastics were new materials at the time, making them favorite materials. Formica countertops and tables would be teamed with molded plastic chairs and vinyl tablecloths, diner booths and stools. Classic retro diner booths, table and chair sets and stools are just some of the readily available retro '50's kitchen furniture. Use retro stools for seating at a breakfast bar, and exchange the standard table and chairs for a diner booth. If you don't have the space, a smaller table and chair set is ideal.
Appliances
Another material that was fairly new to the '50s was chrome, and it became something of a status symbol for the proud housewife. Stainless steel was also common in kitchens. After the depression and the war, Americans were keen to take advantage of the time-saving range of new appliances, such as refrigerators, washers and dryers. Similarly to retro '50's furniture, there is a huge range of retro home appliances available, including more modern items such as microwaves.
Accessories
A jukebox makes a good focal point if you have the space.
A wide range of accessories are available to complete the look of your '50's kitchen and recreate that authentic diner feel -- diner condiment sets, chrome napkin holders and fruit bowls, checkered tablecloths, old-fashioned straw and sugar dispensers, to name just a few. For the walls, a retro clock, 1950's wall-mounted payphone and tin advertising signs complement the rest of the decor. Larger accessories such as soda fountains and malt machines are fun additions, and if you have the room, a jukebox is a real talking point.
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