When it comes to redesigning and introducing a new lease of life into your kitchen, how much time would you spend deciding between integrated and freestanding appliances?
It may seem like a simply choice to make, but deciding on the type of appliances for your space matters. Ultimately, you want a kitchen that works for you – not one that causes you more hassle!
Aesthetic appeal:
The biggest deciding factor when it comes to choosing what kinds of appliances people want for their kitchen is how it works with the aesthetics. If you’re a minimalist, you may find the appeal in all integrated appliances. Disguising bulky washing machines, dishwashers and fridge freezers can give a ‘cleaner’, sleeker look to your kitchen and helps to create a tranquil environment. Or you may prefer for your kitchen to be an eye-catching space that has character at every turn. A show-stopping fridge freezer or dedicated laundry room with the washing machine centre-stage could be your perfect style.
Space utilisation:
But appearance may not be the only thing to consider. Making the most of your space is essential for any kitchen. Whether you’ve got a snug kitchen or a brand new extension, ensuring you maximise the space is important. A large kitchen with wasted space can be just as frustrating as a smaller kitchen with limited options. Deciding to invest in integrated appliances such as microwaves and coffee machines can really help to free up vital countertop space in smaller kitchens. While larger, freestanding appliances can help use up space in kitchens that have room to spare, saving from wasted space that can leave kitchens looking empty and lifeless.
Flexibility:
It’s important to decide whether you’re set with your design choice for the future or if you want to create a space that allows you more freedom when it comes to functionality. Integrated appliances are a sleek solution if you have a definitive plan of how you want your kitchen to look and function. Knowing that your appliance is built seamlessly into your kitchen can be a satisfying result. But for those who like to change their spaces often and enjoy the freedom to move things around, freestanding may be a more attractive option. Appliances that can be freely moved around the space to adapt and grow with your family and lifestyle can be an invaluable asset.
Maintenance and cost:
Of course, cost and maintenance is a huge factor to consider when choosing appliances. Although integrated appliances can offer a sleek and modern look to your kitchen, they are often accompanied by higher price tags and maintenance costs. Freestanding appliances’ ease to manoeuvre makes maintenance much easier and often results in you, or your engineer, having a much easier time identifying and fixing any issues.
So, when you next come to redesigning your kitchen, take some time to consider the integration of your appliances. You might just find that appliances you never even considered could be the perfect addition to your kitchen!
