When we think of a classic diner, we often picture a 1950s retro aesthetic. Chrome detailing, milkshakes, maybe some Googie art prints, and bold checkerboard floors. This can often be associated with a feeling of comfort.
It turns out, it’s more than just the food that fills our bellies and makes our hearts feel warm.
Checkers and Mid-Century Modernism
The design aesthetic you see in one era is often in direct opposition the style that came before it. Prior to the mid-century modern era of design, artists and architects were experimenting with flowing lines and nature motifs. This was the Art Nouveau aesthetic.
As a pushback to this more free-flowing style, the mid-century aesthetic focused on the function of spaces, form following function as opposed to reigning supreme.
Places like diners were appealing because they served a purpose.
This resulted in clean-lined designs rather than frilly artistry.
The mid-century also brought with it post-war optimism. The pairing of clean lines and that optimism resulted in bold prints like checkerboard tile.
Though checkerboard patterns date back to Mesopotamia, the reasons above made it very popular in the mid-century.
Checkerboard Print and Mid-Century Middle-Class Optimism at Diners
It is also because of these reasons that we have a feeling of warmth and happiness when we look at these retro designs. It was a time full of optimism as we left the war behind and felt that there was growth and momentum for the middle class.
Affordable, attractive designs that could be replicated and enjoyed by a broad range of people.
The same can be said about diners which were also targeted at the working middle class as a place to gather as a community post-war.
Comments