Everyone Had One In The '60s –– The Kitchen Table We Want To Have A Comeback

The 1960s were a pivotal moment in American culture. From the Civil Rights movement to the emergence of counterculture to groundbreaking music that defined the generation, there was so much influence that society still draws inspiration from today. When it comes to design, current home interiors owe a lot of its post-modern influences to this decade. In fact, you can see this demonstrated by nostalgic kitchen decor from the '60s in contemporary design, which is resonant of playful colors, curved furniture, and pieces that are functional. Such is the case with the Formica table, which dominated American kitchens in the so-called "cultural decade."  

If you grew up in the '60s, you probably remember the once-popular kitchen table set. Sleek with chrome legs and edges, and a shiny countertop that comes in a variety of shades, a Formica table was a staple in many homes, revered for its longevity and low-maintenance. Beyond a kitchen table set, though, it was also common to see Formica used on countertops and tabletops in American diners and eateries. Thankfully, the Formica table isn't a piece that's lost in time, but is one decor piece you might be able to find at the thrift store or online resale marketplaces for a touch of nostalgia in your kitchen.

A Formica table is often associated with the brand (which it very much is), but its origins actually refer to the type of material that's used to manufacture the table, called "Formica laminate." The composite laminate is easy to clean and is heat and scratch-resistant. For these reasons, the high-pressure material was also widely used on industrial countertops, floors, and walls. Beyond its strengths as a product, Formica tables also have that retro appeal that can be styled tastefully today. And with an upward trend toward a curated, vintage look, per designers, it makes sense that this '60s kitchen staple can instantly elevate a space with a retro vibe, and therefore should be one to consider when designing your kitchen.

It probably goes without saying, but a Formica table looks most natural in retro kitchens or even those with a contemporary or mid-century modern decor style. In that case, considering the shapes and colors in your kitchen can help emphasize the Formica table. For example, using geometric shapes, such as classic black and white tile flooring, curved placemat sets, and futuristic lighting fixtures, help to make the retro table look natural in the eating area. Bold or earthy colors are also recommended to bring that timely vibe to the space. Consider employing other retro appliances in your kitchen, like iconic Smeg refrigerators, which you can mix and match for a truly integrated, contemporary kitchen.