Back in the early 20th century, many kitchens seemed to be of the same style and color: White tiles, white sinks, white floors and white kitchen cabinets. Kitchen tables came in a couple of styles, whether standard design, or drop leaf for the more compact kitchen. In the larger mansion houses, the kitchen table was of wood, without finish, varnish or wax. The cook would use the kitchen table as the one and only surface on which to prepare food. Turkeys would be dressed and stuffed on the kitchen table, and also pastry would be 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, and one that contained color and even glamour. A veneer was added to the table top, called Formica, and edging was made with chrome and other metals. Legs were also made of chrome and added a shine and a gleam to the whole kitchen area. Kitchen tables were also manufactured in different shapes and sizes. The old square, rectangular and round table was now being replaced by the oval shape, the crescent shape and other creative styles
Colors became more adventurous, and white gave way to blue, yellow, red, green and even patterns of squares or circles. The 50's and the 60's saw a boom in this type of kitchen furniture, and although the style changed over the years, this 50's style is now being called 'retro' and is much sought after. Imitation retro is available of course, but the more discerning among us are intent on getting an original item for that retro-look kitchen.
Kitchen designers were not slow to adjust to the trend and demand for this retro furniture, and new creations soon hit the market, based on the designs of old. Even the diners are getting in on the act, as more than one neighborhood can boast an original diner with vinyl seats, chrome edging and the all-important jukebox unit at each table.
In order to obtain an original retro kitchen table, one would have to keep tabs on all the thrift stores in your area. You would also need to visit the auction rooms and hope that something would become available. Sometimes, of course, the kitchen table may no longer be in peak condition, and would need some renovation to bring it back to a usable quality. But good pieces in great condition can be found if searched for.
But, the ideal retro kitchen table for most of us, may be the imitation items found in our modern furniture warehouses. There is nothing wrong with these items, and they do fit very well into our modern retro kitchen or dining area. New materials are used for the laminated tops, and chrome for the edging and legs may come from a different part of the world than the original back in the 50's. But, the quality is good, and the variety is probably better, due to the creative genius of the designers who are able to visualize a new retro kitchen, with modern designs and colors.
The retro look is not confined to kitchen tables, as crockery, cabinet doors and knobs, and kitchen utensils are also available. So, if you're looking for that great new, old look to your kitchen, go for the 'new' retro look, and be the admiration or your neighbors and friends.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jennifer_Akre
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