Hot Kitchen Remodeling Trends: Appliances with Attitude

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!