Why This Hidden Wall Feature Was A Must-Have In The 1950s
November 21, 2024
source: Kathleen Solomon Bruno/Facebook
Tucked away beside the built-in ironing board, this small metal compartment may appear unassuming, but its purpose highlights a bygone era of thoughtful, practical home design. Known as an “iron rest,” it served as a safe, heat-resistant surface for setting down a hot iron between uses.
Before the advent of electric irons with thermostats, flat irons had to be heated manually – either on a stovetop or with internal charcoal. These irons retained their heat long after they were removed from their heat source, necessitating a safe place to rest them during ironing sessions. The metal compartment was lined with a heat-resistant material, like tin or zinc, to withstand the iron’s intense heat without damaging surrounding surfaces.
The iron rest’s placement next to a built-in ironing board maximized convenience. Homemakers could set the iron aside safely while adjusting fabric or moving items, reducing the risk of accidental burns or fire.
Built-in ironing boards became a hallmark of mid-20th-century homes, especially during the 1940s and 1950s, when space-saving and efficient household designs were in vogue. These boards folded neatly into wall-mounted cabinets, often accompanied by accessories like this iron rest. Together, they turned the mundane task of ironing into a streamlined process, reflecting the era’s focus on domestic efficiency.
Today, these built-in ironing board systems and their accompanying iron rests are rarely seen in modern homes. They stand as reminders of a time when thoughtful, custom-built features catered to the needs of everyday life. Discovering one in your home offers a glimpse into the domestic routines of the past – and perhaps even inspiration for how old design can meet modern functionality.
If you’re lucky enough to have one of these vintage conveniences, you might consider preserving it as a unique architectural feature. Even if it no longer serves its original purpose, the iron rest is a charming conversation piece that embodies the practicality and ingenuity of early homebuilders.