How To Create An American Diner – 50’s Style!

Lustrous chrome bar stools, bright red booths, black and white chessboard-style flooring, large jukebox in the corner…ring any bells? It’s the 1950’s of course, or to be more precise – a 1950’s American diner.

It’s an iconic look that’s instantly recognisable the world over and while we can’t transport ourselves back in time – unless of course you’re Marty Mcfly that is – most people under the age of 70 won’t have experienced the sights, sounds, and smells of an authentic American diner. However that hasn’t stopped many retro enthusiasts from recreating a similar look in their cafe. Unsurprisingly, as anything retro is totally and utterly ‘de rigueur’ they are extremely popular. With this in mind, if you’re looking to grab a slice of the action, how do you go about creating a similar look?

It’s gotta be chrome

There’s something about chrome. It gives a flawless polished look while adding a touch of sparkle and glamour. American diners of the time were all about the chrome so it makes sense that yours needs to be too. Consider chrome/polished stainless table bases or a chrome bar rail or foot rest. How about adding a few pictures of the New York skyline complete with chrome picture frames? Alternatively the pièce de resistance would have to be a gleaming chrome jukebox

It’s got to be red

if you ask people to envisage one main colour in an authentic America diner it would have to be red. Not just any old red but deep Coca Cola red. Just imagine a smattering of sumptuous red booths interspersed with some fabulous red Werzalit table tops. They work so well against chrome it’s like a match made in heaven. Finally how about some flashing red signage in a great 1950’s retro font.

It’s gotta be black (with a touch of white thrown in for good measure)

While red and chrome go well together, black brings the whole look alive. The trick is to use just enough. How about interspersing black barstools in between the chrome/red furniture. Also consider black cushions which sit perfectly against the deep red both seating and finally don’t forget that black (and white) checker-board look floor. Ideally for best results it needs to be tiled, but a painted floor can look just as good if it’s done well.

So there you have it! Chrome red and black- these are the three elements that make up your 50’s American diner look. All you need now is a vintage espresso machine and some waitresses on roller skates and you’re up and running!

While we’re not advising to be the world’s greatest style gurus, here at Cafe Furniture Melbourne we are purveyors of quality commercial-grade cafe furniture. We have a wide range of styles and designs to choose from, many of which would fit right in with a retro 1950’s look, so why not take a look and see what we have to offer. Don’t forget you can always contact us on 03 9357 9688 and talk to our experienced team for assistance.