I’ve never been more in awe of something interior design-related than when I first saw my friend’s new kitchen. You may think, “Kitchen”? Not surprisingly, I, like many others, am more of a living/work/bedroom styling type. However, seeing this masterpiece of a kitchen seamlessly connected with the living space, consisting of a dining and living area, has made me change my mind.
After building and designing their house for a while, my friend and her husband took their time to do their kitchen design right. And it was totally worth it. What made their kitchen design unique from others? It was the carefully chosen kitchen appliances that complemented the whole kitchen look. My friend has decided on a vintage look for the cabinetry, the knobs and pulls, and the appliances, as well.
Whether you’re building your kitchen from scratch or considering remodelling it any time soon, you should know that choosing the right appliances not only adds functionality to the cooking working space, contributing to a smooth workflow but also a great value to the overall aesthetics.
How to Choose Kitchen Appliances?
When exploring kitchen appliances online, consider factors like buying online versus in-store, selecting the right pieces to suit your needs, and planning the layout for functionality. Pay attention to details such as style and finishes to ensure they align with your preferences and lifestyle—it can make the process much smoother and more rewarding.
Decide Between Shopping Online Vs. In-store
Online shopping has transformed how we purchase appliances, offering unmatched convenience and variety. You can browse options anytime, explore a broader range of brands and models, and compare prices effortlessly. Detailed product information and customer reviews provide valuable insights to help make informed decisions—all without leaving your home.
However, the lack of hands-on experience can be a drawback, as you can’t physically inspect or test the appliance before buying. Finding a trusted and reputable supplier is a number one factor when shopping for kitchen appliances online because of the risk of delivery issues, such as damage during shipping. Additionally, arranging installation might require extra effort.
Despite the rise of online shopping, many people still prefer the in-store experience for big purchases. Visiting a store allows you to see, touch, and test appliances firsthand, ensuring you’re happy with your choice. Knowledgeable staff are often available to provide real-time advice, and you might even find opportunities to negotiate deals or take home smaller items immediately. On the downside, physical stores might offer a limited selection compared to online, and the experience can be time-consuming, especially if you’re dealing with pushy salespeople.
Whether you shop online or in-store, consider what matters most—convenience, hands-on experience, or expert guidance. Each approach has strengths, so choose what fits your needs and lifestyle.
Choose a Kitchen Layout
Whether upgrading appliances to fit your existing kitchen, renovating to achieve a fresh design, or building your ideal kitchen from scratch, the layout plays a significant role in shaping your choices. Consider how you use your kitchen daily, the flow of movement, and how it connects with nearby spaces.
Structural features or architectural constraints also influence your options. Exploring common kitchen layouts can provide useful ideas for space and storage planning, but keep in mind that your chosen design may determine the types and sizes of appliances that can work best. Be prepared for possible compromises along the way.
Set a Realistic Budget
Your budget will play a major role in determining the appliances you choose, so it’s essential to align it with the size and scale of your project. As you make your selections, ensure that you and your designer or builder prioritise the budget and functionality over purely aesthetic appeal. For instance, while commercial-style appliances might achieve your desired look, they could also demand costly structural changes if they don’t suit your kitchen’s proportions—potentially stretching your budget further than expected.
Design for Your Lifestyle
When planning your new kitchen, it’s essential to design it around your family’s lifestyle and how you like to entertain. Think about how you currently use your kitchen and how you might want to use it in the future. If hosting guests is your thing, consider adding features like a warming drawer, an ice maker, or a larger oven. For busy households, a speed-cooking oven could save valuable time. Creating a detailed wish list of must-haves and nice-to-haves will make it much easier to match your needs with appliance features when it’s time to shop.
Whenever possible, visit showrooms to see appliances in action. Trying out different options can help you find appliances that suit your ergonomic preferences and kitchen layout. For example, depending on your kitchen size, you might benefit from an oven with larger time and temperature displays. Buttons, knobs, and other controls also vary in design and accessibility, so testing them can help you make more informed decisions.
Pick the Right Finishes for Your Style
Once your budget and functional needs are set, you can focus on style and finishes to complement your kitchen design. Stainless steel remains a popular choice for its sleek appearance, durability, and easy maintenance. Another trend is integrating appliances with cabinetry using custom panels for a seamless look.
To refine your choices, consider how features like handles, knobs, or touchscreens contribute to the overall aesthetic. If unsure, a mood board can help you visualise how finishes and styles will come together.
