The 1959 Kitchen: The Heart of the Home

In: Decorative & Applied Arts, Furniture Design, Interior design
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1959 kitchen with a woman standing at the sink, featuring warm wooden cabinetry, a vintage white refrigerator, a freestanding gas stove, and celestial-themed decorations.
A colorized image from the October 1959 issue of Better Homes and Gardens showcasing a stylish and functional kitchen with a vintage refrigerator, gas stove, and a whimsical “heavenly” design theme.

The 1950s Shift Toward Kitchen-Centered Design

The 1950s ushered in a transformation in interior design, emphasizing the kitchen as the heart of the home. This shift was driven by cultural changes, technological advancements, and evolving family dynamics. No longer just a place for food preparation, the kitchen became a multifunctional space where families gathered, children played, and daily life unfolded.

1959 kitchen floor plan featuring a compact yet feature-rich layout with a designated kitchen work center, family area, laundry zone, and storage solutions.
1959 Kitchen Floor Plan – Functional Mid-Century Design

Post-War Optimism and the Rise of the Modern Kitchen

Following World War II, suburban expansion and economic prosperity led to a renewed focus on home life. The kitchen became a symbol of modernity, convenience, and family togetherness. Design trends reflected this shift, incorporating bright colors, streamlined appliances, and efficient layouts to maximize functionality and visual appeal.

1959 kitchen with a built-in TV, a washing machine, and a child enjoying a snack at the counter.
A mid-century kitchen from Better Homes and Gardens, featuring an integrated TV, washing machine, and cozy dining nook.

The Influence of Magazines and Reader-Inspired Designs

Publications like Better Homes and Gardens played a crucial role in shaping kitchen trends. One standout example is their 1959 Heavenly Kitchen, a reader-inspired, all-gas kitchen that exemplified the era’s aesthetic and practical values. Designed with eight distinct areas, this 15 x 19-foot space was not only whimsical and colorful but also highly efficient, justifying its large footprint by serving multiple household functions.

1959 kitchen with a U-shaped layout, built-in herb planter, and space-saving cabinets designed for maximum efficiency.
A 1959 kitchen from Better Homes and Gardens, showcasing a U-shaped design, modern appliances, and built-in greenery.

Key Features of the 1959 “Heavenly Kitchen”

A Family-Centric Layout

The 1959 kitchen was designed with a family-friendly layout that included a dedicated children’s corner. A custom-built bench, crafted from 14-inch wall cabinets, provided seating and hidden storage for toys. Topped with washable, double-layer cushions, the bench offered comfort and practicality, making the kitchen an inviting space for children.

1959 kitchen children’s play area with built-in storage bench, fluffy cushions, and a fold-away table for multifunctional family use.
959 kitchen with a woman reaching for cabinets, a built-in dishwasher, and a space-saving herb planter in a mid-century modern setting.
1959 kitchen with a compact laundry area featuring a built-in washing machine, overhead cabinets, and a space-saving refrigerator tucked behind louvered doors.

Innovative Storage Solutions

Maximizing storage was a priority in 1950s kitchens. The Heavenly Kitchen incorporated clever solutions such as:

  • A peninsula divider with hidden storage for a fold-away card table.
  • Fabric-covered sliding screens as decorative “curtains” that doubled as window coverings.
  • Overhead cabinets positioned for easy dish storage above an integrated herb planter.
1959 kitchen with U-shaped layout, black cabinetry, built-in gas appliances, and a family-friendly dining area. A young child sits at the table, reflecting the kitchen’s role as a multifunctional space.
A colorized image from the October 1959 issue of Better Homes and Gardens, showcasing a modern, space-efficient kitchen with freestanding gas appliances, built-in mixer, and a “heavenly” design theme.

Technological Innovations in Kitchen Appliances

1950s kitchens saw rapid advancements in household technology. The Heavenly Kitchen featured a cutting-edge dishwasher with four cycles, allowing for efficient cleaning of various dishware and utensils. The kitchen also included a space-saving gas washer-dryer, which was only 26 ½ inches wide, exemplifying the push toward compact, high-performance appliances.

The Aesthetic Appeal of the 1950s Kitchen

The aesthetic of the 1950s kitchen was a celebration of bold color, playful patterns, and futuristic materials. Key design elements included:

  • Colorful flooring: The Heavenly Kitchen boasted a floor tile inlaid with a “heavenly cloud” design, reinforcing the dreamy, whimsical theme.
  • Vibrant textiles: Cushions and slipcovers were crafted from acrylic-fiber rugs, adding texture and durability.
  • Bright and airy feel: Large windows, often adorned with decorative screens, maximized natural light while maintaining a cozy, enclosed atmosphere.

The Lasting Impact of 1950s Kitchen Design

The 1950s marked the beginning of the kitchen’s evolution from a strictly utilitarian space to the social hub of the home. This transformation influenced later decades, paving the way for open-concept kitchen designs that remain popular today. The integration of seating areas, multi-functional spaces, and efficient storage solutions in the Heavenly Kitchen set a precedent for modern interior design.

As we look back at 1950s kitchens, we see a period of innovation, optimism, and warmth. These designs reflected not just the technological progress of the era but also the changing roles within the household. The kitchen was no longer just a place to cook—it was a place to live.

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