Kitchens Evolve: From Industrial Revolution to Open Concepts

The modern American kitchen's evolution began with the ripple effects of the industrial revolution. Government initiatives and the rise of home economics promoted homemaking as a scientific endeavor, comparable to traditional industries. This period saw the introduction of innovative appliances such as mass-produced metal stoves, rudimentary refrigerators (iceboxes), and electric countertop tools like toasters and mixers, technologies that remain foundational today.

Architectural advancements introduced modular, mass-produced cabinetry, a departure from previous custom-built or free-standing furniture solutions. Influenced by designers like Margarete Schütte-Lihotzky, kitchens became more functional, with labeled storage and integrated appliance planning, reflecting a growing emphasis on domestic science. The concept of an efficient "work triangle" between the stove, sink, and counter also took shape.

The kitchen's physical layout also saw radical change. Breaking from traditional enclosed spaces, Frank Lloyd Wright designed one of the first open-concept kitchens, fostering an environment where cooking and entertaining could seamlessly merge. This forward-thinking design prioritized natural light and connectivity to living areas, presaging a trend that would redefine home interiors for decades to come.