18 Photos That Show How American Kitchens Have Transformed Over the Decades
Kitchens have always reflected the times — how we live, what we value, and even what we wear while whipping up dinner. From cast-iron ovens that doubled as heat sources to today’s voice-activated appliances, the evolution is nothing short of incredible.
These comparison photos capture just how much American kitchens have transformed over the decades — style, function, and chaos included.
The Bulky Ovens of the 1920s …
The bulky ovens of the 1920s were heavy-duty, cast-iron beasts — fueled by wood or coal and built to last a lifetime. Needless to say, they took up serious space in the kitchen.
… To Today’s Digital Takeover
From electric, glass-top stoves and sleek stovetops built right into your counters to built-in WiFi and endless control options, today’s ovens are so high tech the Jetsons couldn’t have dreamed them up.
Mixed Patterns Everywhere …
From about the 1930s until the 1970s, wallpaper, floral patterns on tiled floors, and curtains with an entirely different pattern were all the rage. Kitchens were expressive, eclectic, and completely uncoordinated aesthetically.
… Would Never Fly Today
Interior design inspiration for kitchens these days embraces sleek materials, simple color palettes, and minimal patterns.
High Chairs That Looked Like Actual Furniture …
This highchair from the 1940s looks like a recliner atop a kitchen chair. This tot was dining in style and comfort for sure.
… Have Been Replaced by Bulky Plastic
In a kitchen culture that’s so driven by sleek and aesthetically pleasing elements, we’re honestly quite shocked that high chairs are as bulky and plastic-forward as they are.
Completely Put-Together Cooks …
This picture is the pinnacle of a 1950s kitchen: a woman in a dress and apron with a pearl necklace and perfect lipstick, a sparkling clean kitchen, a ham and turkey in the oven, and a salad on the counter. She even has time to catch up with Phyllis on the phone.
… Have Encountered More Chaos
Well, we’re still on the phone, but the average kitchen today is in a bit more disarray than those iconic depictions of the 1950s.
Putting Cookbooks to Good Use …
Once upon a time, Betty Crocker was every home cook’s best friend, and cookbooks were riddled with sauce-stained pages because of how often they were used.
… Has Gone to the Wayside (Thanks to Cellphones)
We still refer to recipes as we cook, but they’re typically found on Google or stowed away neatly on our Pinterest boards. Either way, we use our phones a lot more than tangible cookbooks.
Intimate Family Dinners Wearing Your Sunday Best …
Dinnertime was an ordeal back in the day. We set the table, served the food in nice dishes, and dressed like we were dining out at a restaurant.
… Have Become Much More Casual
Grab some paper plates and let’s order a pizza. Family dinners are a lot more casual nowadays.
Those Iconic Color Combos …
Shades of rust, yellow, and brown ruled kitchens in the 1970s, while soft pinks and mint greens made their mark on the 1950s. Prints like grapes and farm animals dominated during the ’90s. Depending on the decade, the decor trends were statement-worthy.
… Are a Lot More Monochromatic Now
So. Much. White. And. Gray.
Coordinated Clutter …
Collections of cookbooks, knick-knacks, canisters, plants, and anything else that called to our home decor tastes belonged in the kitchen, no matter how cluttered it became.
… Got Steam-Rolled by Minimalism
Minimalism has taken over these days, and you won’t find nearly as much personality in the average kitchen. Clutter-free countertops are a certifiable trend.
Light Woods and White Tile Countertops …
That white tile and light wood combo that ruled the 1990s was so incredibly cozy in the kitchen. Plants, fruit, and lots of natural light drove the vibe home.
… Were Swapped for Sleek Granite
These days, you’ll still find white, but it’s more than likely going to be paired with sleek granite countertops.