The 1960s were a decade of bold and colorful design, and this was no exception when it came to kitchen cabinets. In this era, kitchen cabinets were often seen as functional pieces of furniture rather than just storage space. With the rise of the suburban home and the modern housewife, kitchen design became a key focus in home decor. Let's take a closer look at the top 10 1960s kitchen wall cabinets that defined this iconic decade.1960s Kitchen Cabinets
During the 1960s, kitchen cabinets were heavily influenced by the popular styles of the time. This included the sleek and futuristic look of the Space Age, the vibrant and psychedelic patterns of the Hippie movement, and the clean and simple lines of Mid-Century Modern design. These styles were reflected in the shape, color, and material of kitchen cabinets, making them a statement piece in any kitchen.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Styles
When it came to color, the 1960s were all about being bold and bright. Kitchen cabinets were no exception, with popular colors including shades of orange, yellow, green, and blue. These colors were often used in combination, creating a fun and playful look. The use of bright colors in kitchen cabinets was a reflection of the optimism and energy of the decade.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Colors
The 1960s saw a shift towards more modern and functional kitchen cabinet design. Cabinets were often sleek and simple, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. This was a departure from the more traditional and ornate styles of previous decades. Many cabinets also featured built-in appliances, such as ovens and refrigerators, adding to the streamlined look of the kitchen.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Design
Hardware played a big role in the overall look of 1960s kitchen cabinets. Popular choices included chrome or brushed metal handles and knobs, adding a futuristic touch to the design. Some cabinets also featured unique and decorative hardware, such as star-shaped or flower-shaped handles. These small details added personality to the cabinets and helped to tie in with the overall style of the kitchen.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
The materials used for kitchen cabinets in the 1960s were often reflective of the popular styles of the time. For example, the Space Age influence was seen in the use of futuristic materials like Formica, a type of laminate, for cabinet doors. Wood was also a popular choice, with teak and birch being commonly used. These materials added a touch of warmth to the otherwise sleek and modern design of the cabinets.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Materials
One of the biggest trends in 1960s kitchen cabinets was the use of open shelving. This trend reflected the desire for a more modern and open concept kitchen. Open shelves were often used for displaying colorful and decorative items, adding a pop of color to the kitchen. Another trend was the use of built-in storage features, such as pull-out drawers and lazy Susans, making it easier for homeowners to organize their kitchen items.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Trends
If you're lucky enough to have original 1960s kitchen cabinets in your home, you may be wondering how to give them a modern update. One way to do this is by painting the cabinets in a bright and bold color, giving them a fresh and contemporary look. You can also switch out the hardware for a more modern style. Another option is to add open shelving or glass doors to create a more open and airy feel.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Makeover
For those looking to preserve the original charm and character of their 1960s kitchen cabinets, restoration is the way to go. This involves carefully cleaning and repairing any damaged areas, as well as refinishing or repainting them to bring back their original beauty. Restoring 1960s kitchen cabinets requires attention to detail and a skilled hand, but the end result is well worth the effort.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Restoration
For homeowners who want to give their 1960s kitchen cabinets a new look without completely replacing them, refacing is a great option. This involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. This is a more cost-effective and less time-consuming option compared to a full kitchen remodel, and it can still give your cabinets a fresh and updated look. In conclusion, 1960s kitchen wall cabinets were a defining feature of this iconic decade. From bold colors and sleek design to functional features and unique hardware, these cabinets were a reflection of the lively and vibrant era. Whether you choose to restore, refinish, or modernize your 1960s kitchen cabinets, they are sure to add a touch of retro charm to any home.1960s Kitchen Cabinet Refacing