How to Select Appliances When Doing a Kitchen Remodel
Appliances are the most timely selection you’ll make in any kitchen refresh. Today we’re taking you behind the scenes of our Goodrich Tudor, with the full reveal posted here. The timeless updates to this space make this 1920s Tudor a new home for decades to come. But what really matters, are the actual selections we spent tireless hours on to pull this incredible look together.
With so many sources of inspiration these days (who needs to travel anymore), it can easily be overwhelming. We have good news for you. We’re going to break out the single most important and timely decision you’ll need to make in your kitchen update … the appliances.
Space Planning is Critical When Selecting Appliances
We own our own cabinet shop and always provide custom-designed cabinets to retrofit every renovation we take on. This means we need to be very precise from the onset. The overall space planning begins with just that. Decide which wall the sink belongs on, as well as where all major appliances sit, and build from there. Sometimes we’re working with an existing layout, and often we’re tearing it all out and starting from scratch. The good news, customization is endless, so we often tell clients to start with their must have’s. This means going appliance shopping, early! We also believe in partnering with a design or build studio to assist with this layout and sharing industry best practices to finesse the overall function of your space.
Prioritize Appliance Aesthetics
Appliances should not only be functional, but we also firmly believe in aesthetics. They are a long-term commitment, you need something to stand up to the duration of your new kitchen but will also feel somewhat permanent as your cabinets, countertops, and often your backsplash are all designed custom with these appliances in mind.
Once you’ve finalized your layout and budget, you can shop for style. There are many options from the new hot topic of Induction Cooking, read more on a recent blog post here, and dual fuel (which has been a Jkath classic). If you’re not familiar with what dual fuel is, listen up: the oven itself is heated with electric while the burners are heated with gas burners. In short, if you’re a baker, electric convection ovens are the way to go, with more even heat throughout the oven. But, a gas cooktop is so necessary for quick heating, especially for busy families on the go like ours.
I’m also certain the flexibility of this central burner would be a game changer in a smaller, city kitchen when going to a 36” range doesn’t make a lot of sense. The ability to cook with a fifth burner and to hold food warm is everything.
Consider Refidgerator Form and Function
Manby clients still love a 36” counter depth option that works beautifully in this space. What we enjoy most about this design is the interior filtered water dispenser, removed from the exterior facade, which so many of our clients are asking for in their new appliances. The fingerprint-free stainless, on all of their appliances, is also perfect for young families. We especially love the EverFresh+ technology in the produce drawers. Big win to keep our CSA veggies fresh for days.
If your budget allows, consider a single-door refrigerator, possibly using our Hidden Appliance advice, or integrated it to be flush with your appliances. Our St. Albans project is a great example of an integrated single-door option, as well as our Zieglers Drive kitchen.
Let’s Not Forget About the Kitchen Workhorse – The Dishwasher
To round out this kitchen, we selected the top control 24” dishwasher, but be aware they have a solid 18” version, you can read more about this product in our Nokomis Ave project. The small space solutions are so sensible, especially when we’re talking about Europe’s leading appliance brand.
The most notable feature here is the exclusive wash feature. You will no longer have to thoroughly clean your dishes before you load, as this dishwasher takes care of this for you. Additionally, the SilentTech option also means you hardly notice when it’s running. Zero distractions for the busy family that may be getting homework done, catching up on the latest Netflix Series, or simply winding down for the night with a good book.
Take note that whatever appliance package you go with, this is an early decision in the renovation process. All permanent features in your kitchen are designed around these pieces, custom cabinetry, countertops, and backsplash. Test drive early and ask your local dealer to demonstrate these appliances, make sure you understand their functions and what sets them apart from their competitors.
11th Avenue Tudor Refresh | Calm, and Cool Owner’s Suite Oasis | Contemporary and Bold Kitchen Update
Jkath Team
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