Whether you’re building a home or planning a kitchen remodel, we recommend you start with the appliances when planning out your new kitchen. Far too often, we see customers wait until the end to select appliances because they tend to be one of the last items to go into the kitchen and, as a result, are disappointed with their available options as they try to select items that will fit in the space and configuration afforded to them by the kitchen layout. Or worse yet, many are met with the surprise of additional cost and time because the proper electrical, plumbing, and ventilation elements were not in place to accommodate the specifications of the chosen appliances.
Let’s face it. Every kitchen needs appliances in one form or another and while there are some “standard” sizes and configurations, there is also a wide variety of options out there that can help you achieve your design, function and culinary goals without sacrificing one for the other. Starting with the appliances allows you to establish a foundation upon which your contractor or designer can work their magic with cabinets, flooring, tilework and other elements to achieve your form and function goals and avoid costly surprise costs later in the project.
Once you’ve made the decision to start with the appliances, the key is to focus on what’s most important to you. Does function drive your decision? Are you an aspiring chef that wants a flexible cooking surface, multiple ovens or advanced features like sous vide, induction or air fry? Maybe you’re all about entertaining and want refrigeration options that can store party trays, a variety of beverages and has an ice maker that makes perfect ice spheres for your craft cocktails.
Or, on the other hand, are you more interested in form than function? Do you want options for unique colors, finishes or trims to really make your appliances stand out? Or do you want your appliances to blend seamlessly into your kitchen behind custom wood fronts or via unique installation options that put the focus on your cabinets, countertops and other design elements instead?
Whether it’s form, function or a combination of both, focusing your appliance choices on your most pressing wants and needs will go a long way in making sure your kitchen project is a success.
Once you’ve decided on the most important factors for you, the next step is to narrow down to a list of brands that will help you meet your needs and wants. We often recommend sticking with one brand throughout the kitchen for a number of reasons. For starters, finishes, handles and other elements can vary from one brand to the next. Sticking with one brand ensures a cohesive look and feel in the finished kitchen. Additionally, brands will often offer promotions with savings that escalate with each additional appliance you add within a certain brand or family of brands.
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