Over on the Forum, a homeowner in St. Louis has posted a set of vintage St. Charles steel kitchen cabinets for sale — with their original terra cotta paint. I’d noted this color in a brochure I have dated 1957 — a year in which the company spotlighted a number of fantastic colors and designs. But, this is the first time I’ve seen terra cotta in the flesh, and I like it. “Rust” actually has been on my mind a lot these days — I’m putting it on my list of *hot* colors for 2010. Note in the kitchen design above: The rotisserie operating in the bricked-in, built-in barbeque… the white wall cabinets that lighten up the terra cotta and play off the mortar in the brick…and the scalloped cafe curtains. Great kitchen. And great cabinets, asking price $5,000. Gulp. Prices keep going up, didn’t I tell ya.
Laurie says
My husband and I just bought a home that was built in 1960. It has a vintage St. Charles Kitchen in a green. The seller left the original invoice for the kitchen and it was over $3,000.00 in 1960. Steel is not cheap and lasts forever if taken care of. We are super happy with it but will probably paint it white. IKEA sells cheap stuff that will not last. There is no comparison. These kitchens are worth 10,000.00. Go price steel. You just have to find the right buyer and be willing to wait.
pam kueber says
LIVE WITH IT before your repaint! I’d love to see pics!
Laurie says
Pam,
There are a few spots that are rusty. What do you recommend to remedy this problem besides sanding and painting?
pam kueber says
Laurie, I am not a DIY expert. I do want to repeat this precaution, which you may see in many other places on the blog: Old paint can contain vintage nastiness such as lead; be sure to consult with a properly licensed professional to make sure you understand what you are working with and to make decisions how to handle.
See my kitchens/Steel kitchens category; there are stories about other readers who have repainted their cabinets using various methods. You need to research and make your own decisions…. Good luck.