In post-World-War-II America, Lustron houses, including the one now owned by Jim Morrow, popped up all over the country. In 1950, the original owner bought the house--delivered to its site in 4,000 pieces--for only $13,850, and it was purchased by Morrow in 1990. Located just a few miles from Lake Michigan, this residence is situated in an older part of town. The exposed pieces of the house--the roofing, overhang and siding--are made of steel, and the remaining sections are porcelain-coated metal. Encompassing 1,300 square feet and included a matching garage, the design resulted from the post-war housing shortage, during which houses were marketed to returning veterans. Nearly 3,000 of these homes were built in 18 months, though only a fraction of them still remain. Some, including Morrow's, are listed on the National Register of Historical Places in the United States. Inspired by this award, Morrow now gives public tours of his home.
Once inside, it is obvious that this is a true pre-fab house, with hidden screws connecting panels to a steel framing system. Although Lustron had allowed homeowners to choose from five different colors, gray was the standard, with bathrooms often yellow or other brighter shades. A particularly unusual feature is the built-in steel furniture, including steel kitchen cabinets, bookcase and vanity, and a steel china buffet combination. Because Lustron had once sought the expertise of automobile designers, the houses have a streamlined look including horizontal lines, recessed drawers and geometric patterns. It was Morrow's idea to enhance the mood effect with additional all-steel furniture in the living room, an Art Deco chrome area and circa 1920s bedroom set, and a faux fireplace that doubles as a liquor cabinet. The home's showstopper, however, is the built-in combination dishwasher and clothes washer in the kitchen, strategically placed between the refrigerator and the stove.
