By Ken Urman, Realtor
In a recent post I outlined 10 kitchen
remodeling trends. In this post I will continue to discuss kitchen remodeling
trends related to appliances. Some of the trends in appliances show the
influence of other trends, such as the sleek, clean look of contemporary
kitchen design, the shift from under-counter cabinets to drawers, and the
design of kitchens to accommodate multiple cooks.
Here are the leading trends in kitchen appliances. Some are new; others are becoming more popular.
·
Appliances in drawers. Refrigeration and
microwave drawers are popular because they are accessible to all members of the
family. These drawers are also safer than reaching above a range or cooktop
(especially if a burner is in use at the time).
·
Refrigerator drawers can be placed anywhere in
or on the edge of the kitchen (especially accessible when the kitchen is open
to another room of the house). Any member of the family can get to food, snacks
or beverages without getting in the way of cooking activities in the main
workspace of the kitchen.
·
Wine coolers, under-counter beverage centers,
etc. can be positioned for ease of access in the most desirable location.
·
For those who still prefer the control of a gas
range, more powerful burners are now available. These new burners can offer an
output of up to 18,000 BTUs.
·
Induction cooktops continue to rise in
popularity because they are energy-efficient and because they heat up and cool
down faster, making them safer. Induction cooktops carry higher price tags and
require higher amps to operate.
·
If the ultimate in healthy food preparation is
on your agenda, you can now choose a steam oven. It will cook faster and
healthier. Some come with a second convection oven. Some also include an option
that will remove spills without an extended cleaning cycle.
·
Some refrigerators are available now that
include hot water dispensers in the door, as well as ice water and ice
dispensing.
·
Refrigerators with French-style doors are
becoming more popular. They make it much easier to view the contents of the
refrigerator. The new feature this year is that some manufacturers are making
refrigerators with four doors.
·
Dishwashers now offer numerous options,
including three or four racks for utensils and flatware. The move to greater
energy efficiency continues with dishwashers that use less water, make less
noise, are larger, and even have jets in the side walls.
Other trends related to kitchen appliances include:
·
Hiding appliances behind panels that match
cabinetry or enhance the contemporary style makes the overall appearance of the
kitchen more suited for entertaining and for openness to other rooms of the
house.
·
The most popular faucets conserve water. Many
also have touchless controls.
·
Popular sinks are longer and deeper
single-bowls. Some include cutting boards that conserve space.
·
Rather than leaving small appliances (can
openers, coffee makers, etc.) on the counter, there is a trend of placing these
appliances in “homes” or “condos” or “garages” that keep them easily accessible
while keeping them out of sight and continuing the uncluttered and sleek lines
of the contemporary style of kitchen design.
·
Finally, consider a built-in coffee maker that
is fully visible.
New trends and functionality in appliances are less likely
to become passé as quickly as a bold color of the year or countertop material.
If you are remodeling, and you plan to sell your home in the near future, it is
important to keep in mind that some trends will last and others will not. If
you need help evaluating how your remodeling ideas will be received by today’s
home buyers, please call me (206-230-0833). I would be happy to discuss your
plans and discuss the questions and desires buyers in our area are looking for
in their kitchens. Remember, I’ll bring the coffee!
