Orion Creamer is the founder of Big Chill, a company based in Boulder, CO, that makes kitchen appliances inspired by the bold colors and designs of the 1950s. Among these is the Retro fridge, which blends a vintage vibe with modern capabilities and brings a pop of color and character to a kitchen.
We chatted with Creamer about his design inspiration, the applications of the Retro fridge and how Big Chill was founded.
Tell us about your background, how Big Chill came to be and what the company offers?
I collected vintage fridge doors as art when I was in college, and I’ve always loved mid-century design. When my aunt and uncle came to me with the idea to start Big Chill in 2001, I was all in.
The idea for Big Chill was conceived when my aunt and uncle wanted a retro fridge for their new cottage, but couldn’t find a modern, functional version that existed. My uncle resisted installing a vintage fridge because it was for his family’s second home, and he didn’t want to continuously defrost it. Those old fridges were typically small and energy inefficient. My aunt and uncle came to me and said, “Somebody should start a fridge company where the fridges would look old but they would be new on the inside.” As a recent industrial design graduate with a lifelong passion for retro design — especially fridges, I was eager and excited to take on the challenge.
What inspired you to create the Retro fridge? What were your main goals throughout the design process?
We saw a gap in the appliance market for fridges that honored their original design. In 1955, fridges were seen as a staple element in the kitchen — a piece of art. Over the next few decades, they became a commodity driven only by function and price point. Refrigerators became sterile square boxes offered in white, black and stainless steel. We knew people would be open to a colorful alternative if we could build it. Our main goal throughout the process was to stay true to mid-century design while updating the aesthetic and level of performance.
Our initial fridge launch was far more successful than we had planned. Soon after, our customers started requesting other appliances to complete their retro-inspired kitchens. We started with a dishwasher, followed by stoves and hoods in a variety of different color options. Today we offer a complete kitchen package, with three different lines of products: Retro, Pro and Classic. We’ve expanded our color choices, as well, and now offer up to 200 custom colors for each product.
Aside from the look, what qualities set the Retro fridge apart?
These fridges combine colorful, nostalgic design with modern performance. Unlike fridges from the 50’s, our units are all frost-free. We also include a temperature management system, automatic moisture control, glass shelving and optional ice makers.
What types of spaces do you envision the Retro fridge in? Have you noticed any patterns in the styles of interiors the fridge is going into?
I see our fridge go into a wide variety of spaces and styles, but three trends stick out to me:
- Cottages, bungalows and mid-century homes: Our fridges fit perfectly into these period-style homes.
- Modern homes: These customers are often looking for a pop of color and design to make a statement in their kitchens.
- Second homes: Home styles can vary widely but these customers are typically trying to create a space that is fun, relaxing and not-too-serious.
How did you decide on what colors to offer — and which is your personal favorite?
My aunt, who comes from the fashion industry, helped us create the color palette. In the beginning, our goal was to offer a fresh take on the range of iconic 1950’s hues. The result was a bright pastel selection — including Buttercup Yellow, Jadite Green, Pink Lemonade — combined with a more modern Orange and Cherry Red. Our Beach Blue will always have a special place in my heart. It was the first color we created and to this day, is our signature color.
For Creamer, founding Big Chill was a risky move that has ultimately paid off in a big way. In addition to the Retro fridges, the company offers ranges, stoves, hoods, dishwashers and microwaves all in the same iconic hues. For more details on Big Chill, visit www.bigchill.com.
