Here’s a fantastic idea — a recessed toaster. This Modern Maid built-in toaster toasts four slices of bread… it’s meant to be hard-wired in between stud walls… I’m not sure if it’s to code today, but it sure is sweet. And — it’s for sale on craiglist near San Diego right now.
Thanks to reader Linda for spotting this beauty. And thanks to the craigslist sellers for giving us permission to archive this shiny relic. The listing says:
This is a one-of-a-kind, vintage built-in chrome 4-slot toaster by Modern Maid (McGraw Edison, then Toastmaster now Salton in case you ever need parts). It is meant to be hardwired of 14-guage (14-2) wire when installing. Cut out dimensions 14 1/2 x 8 inches. Worked fine when we removed it for a kitchen re-model. Chrome exterior is in really good shape (nice and shiny like that 50’s chrome look). This item is a must-have for anyone looking for a true retro look to their kitchen!
Indeed, recessed appliances were “a thing” back in the day. Here are some others that we have show in the past:
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I love recessed appliances. They allow for much more counter space. This one is so shiny and new looking too!
Cool toaster, and that’s my hometown 🙂
Yes, that is officially awesome.
My brother & his wife bought a house built in the early 60s that had a similar built-in toaster. They removed it during a kitchen remodel – was in poor condition and not working. Also with it recessed into an exterior wall there wasn’t room for insulation, resulting in cold drafty area. But really cool & I would have cleaned it up & kept it anyway.
All of these built in small appliances are so smart. It seems as though kitchen design is regressing, these ideas were so sleek compared to today’s kitchens.
Yes, and look at the decline in quality of most small appliances being made today. Lots of plastic, limited availability of parts…. most are built to basically be tossed out once they stop working. Back in the day, if a company was building a toaster which was going to be installed in a wall, you know they had to care about build quality. Just look at all the chrome and metal on that baby!
You can go to http://www.toastercentral.com . This guy sells vintage and antique toasters. In fact, he sells a mint condition built in toaster like this one. All toasters are inspected and working to factory specifications.
I purchased this wall toaster…and it is now installed in my 1956 home in Palm Springs…called Palm Roc. I have a photo post-install, and can send.
I’ll send you an email, William — woot!
HI, WHERE CAN I GET ONE. THANKS
Hi Hector,
Try searching Craigslist, Ebay or Etsy. Good luck!
I have a 2 slot toaster like this. How does one remove from the wall for cleaning of crumbs etc.?
Ann, we can’t answer questions like this here – since this is an electrified device, please consult with your own properly licensed professional.
Trying to find one of these would you happen to know where or who sells them please and thank you the built in modern maid wall toaster…thanks
Vintage, you need to find them vintage. Not sure if they are still to code – check with your own properly licensed professional.
I have the modern maid recessed vintage toaster. Love it! But the handle broke. Where can I find a replacement handle?
You can try the source listed in this story, otherwise I am not sure: https://retrorenovation.com/2011/08/29/parts-service-and-advice-to-fix-old-stoves-and-other-vintage-appliances-a-list-of-9-online-resources/
Stayed with a friend who lives in a very old home in St Louis. She had one but I didn’t know to leave the drawer open during use. Oops.
I am looking to replace or get parts for my Modern Maid in Wall 4 slice toaster. Same as one in picture at the top. If you can help me please I would appreciate it.
Thank you
Denise Ott
This story has a source in it that might be able to help you https://retrorenovation.com/2011/08/29/parts-service-and-advice-to-fix-old-stoves-and-other-vintage-appliances-a-list-of-9-online-resources/
This is cool, it reminds me of a built in toaster we had once when I was a kid. Ours was a little different. It was there when we moved in, it was mounted up under the upper cabinets and tilted forward when it opened. I never knew much about it though, it was old, at least as as old as the 70s and sadly it was broken. It WOULD technically toast bread but it only had one setting… black.