A trip to New York always means a trip to MoMA, which could easily be my favourite art museum and also my ideal New York apartment ”“ one with an amazing outdoor terrace and where I could live amongst beautiful objects everyday 🙂

When we went this time, there was a very interesting exhibition about design and the modern kitchen ”“ how fitting for my foodie adventures in New York!

Fjord Flatware – I want it.

The exhibition was made up entirely of MoMA’s own collection, which was impressive for me since they were able to put it all together in such a cohesive story. The exhibition basically follows the history of kitchen design from the 1920’s to the post war era. It was interesting to see how the kitchen as a space in the family home has evolved over time.

We saw a model of ”˜The Frankfurt Kitchen’ that was designed and rolled out en-mass in Germany for social housing developments during the 20’s and 30’s. The kitchen was designed to be a laboratory-like food factory, which was functional, small and tucked away inside the home ”“ Food mustn’t have been shared socially like it is today and I feel like it must’ve been regarded more as nourishment than enjoyment with this type of kitchen.

Next, ”˜the New Kitchen’ emerged. This kitchen was one shaped by technological advances and research into new materials like aluminium, which in part revolutionised appliance design.

And finally the post war kitchen. This was much more like the kitchen we see now ”“ a spacious, labour-saving room that has become more of the focal point of the home.

I’m glad the kitchen has become the most social place in the home. To me, the best part of life is about sharing and cooking food with friends and family and I can’t see myself enjoying this in the Frankfurt Kitchen!

If you’re in New York and you’re a foodie, I really recommend seeing it:

Counter Space: Design & the Modern Kitchen
The museum of modern art (MoMA) NY
September 15, 2010 ”“ March 14, 2011

PS: I’ve just bought a domain name for my blog www.meltingbutter.com. How very exciting! Viva melting butter! 🙂

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