There are many who believe that all matters of style are cyclical, and that which is popular at a given time will pass out of style and ultimately come around again. However true that may be as a general proposition, it is certainly true of metal kitchen cabinets.
Very popular items, particularly in the era of the 1940's and 1950's, these vintage metal kitchen cabinets fell out of favor in later decades. Now, however, there is a resurgence of interest in them.
Their original appeal was due to their low cost and easy maintenance, plus the fact that they were then new and exciting. Well, after their decline, they remain easy to maintain, and to many, are again new and exciting.
In addition, they remain in place and in service in many older homes, and such used kitchen cabinets can be found at quite affordable prices. Those interested may find success looking for such cabinets online. While they may be found on E-Bay, the market for such items is generally local. Accordingly, a search of Craigslist is more likely to be fruitful.
Looped Logic Metal Cabinet from Amazon
Prices, as with most things, will vary widely. Some people just want to have them removed and will practically (or actually!) give them away in return for having them dismounted and hauled. Some people, however, especially if their cabinets are in superior condition, may seek up to several thousand dollars for a substantial set.
Also, be aware that the condition of cabinets even among an installed set may vary widely, and it's not uncommon to have to acquire several sets and 'cut and paste' them to accommodate variances in condition. Finally, going this route is a far cry from ordering custom cabinets. The cabinets are the size that they are, and are not easily or practically trimmed. Making them fit into an inflexible space may prove to be a great chore.
Of course, the renewal of interest in metal kitchen cabinets has not gone unnoticed by modern cabinet manufacturers. There are newly designed metal cabinets on the marketplace, and they reflect the advancements in technology that have occurred over time. Today, finishes are less likely to be permanently damaged by scratches and impacts, and corrosion resistance is much better. They are available in more colors and can include features such as custom hardware and even glass inserts.
Whether old and recycled or new, metal kitchen cabinets are easy to keep clean and maintain. They may be just the thing for those weary of seeing cabinets in more or less well rendered wood (real or faux) or Formica finishes.
