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Hidden: About Panelled Kitchen Appliances

Panelled kitchen appliances are a sophisticated and innovative design trend that seamlessly integrates modern technology with timeless aesthetics. Instead of standing out as bulky and intrusive elements in the kitchen, these appliances are adorned with panels that match the surrounding cabinetry, creating a harmonious and cohesive look. This design approach allows homeowners to maintain a clean and uniform appearance in their kitchen, avoiding the disruption of contrasting colours or textures that can sometimes be visually overwhelming.

 

 

One significant advantage of panelled kitchen appliances is their ability to blend into the overall design scheme, contributing to a sense of continuity and flow in the space. Refrigerators, freezers, vent hoods, and dishwashers can be discreetly concealed behind matching panels, offering a sleek and streamlined appearance. This design choice is particularly popular in contemporary and minimalist kitchens where a seamless and clutter-free aesthetic is highly sought after. Additionally, paneled appliances can be customized to suit various styles, from traditional to ultra-modern, making them a versatile choice for a wide range of kitchen designs.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, panelled kitchen appliances also contribute to a more functional and efficient kitchen. The uniform appearance created by these appliances can help create an illusion of more space, making smaller kitchens feel larger and more open. The integraion of appliances into cabinetry can also facilitate better organization and a cleaner overall look, as there are no protruding elements disrupting the visual harmony of the kitchen. As technology advances, the ability to customize panels for smart appliances and touchscreen interfaces further enhances the seamless integration of modern conveniences into the kitchen’s overall design. In essence, panelled kitchen appliances exemplify a marriage of form and function, catering to both the practical needs and stylistic preferences of homeowners.

Fisher Paykel
Fisher Paykel

It is important to remember that you cannot install a custom panel on just any kitchen appliance. The unit must be designed and manufactured to accept a cabinetry panel. Some of our favourite brands to integrate are Bosch, Fisher Paykel, and Miele.

How to Prep Your Temporary Kitchen

When your kitchen is being renovated, it is disruptive to your home and your family. The better you can prepare for the time where you don’t have a full kitchen, the better your overall experience will be. I often say that you can think of it like camping in your home.

Choose your space: Away from construction area.

  • Ideally near a sink (or get a dish pan)
  • Table area
  • Close to a fridge if possible (mini fridge works too)

 

Choose your tools: keep them in a clear plastic bin so things are easy to find

  • Knives
  • Essential utensils
  • Basic dinnerware
  • Cutlery
  • Cutting Board
  • Can Opener
  • Mixing Bowl

 

amazon.ca

Appliances – it’s time to embrace your countertop appliances;

  • Instant pot
  • Slow cooker
  • Panini press
  • Microwave
  • Air fryer
  • Toaster oven
  • Hot plate / induction burner

 

Plan ahead:

  • Fill your freezer with your favourites to keep cooking to a minimum. Soups, stews, lasagna, casseroles – there are so many options.
  • Buy prepared foods like pre-washed produce and salad kits
  • Plan to BBQ
  • Try subscribing to a box meal delivery service

 

Good Times

And, when it all feels overwhelming, it’s okay to get takeout too. Planning ahead will ensure that this is not your only option.

Learn Your Countertop Options - Part I

When renovating your kitchen or bathroom you have many choices for new countertops.  I’ve chosen the 12 most popular options and will share the pros and cons to help you make your decision.  Here are the first 6 options.

Laminate

Formica

Laminate countertops are often referred to as Formica, but there are other popular brands such as Wilsonart and Nevamar.  The most common type of laminate tops are called ‘Post-form counters’ which are a plastic laminated synthetics which is shaped and bonded to a particle board core. 

PROS:

  • Easy to maintain
  • Low cost
  • Many designs available
  • DIY installation is possible

CONS:

  • Visible seams
  • Not heat resistant
  • Can be considered too ‘cheap’
  • Scratches cannot be repaired

Tile

HGTV

Tile countertops offer so much creativity for design and layout, or the selection to keep it simple as the photo above.

PROS:

  • Easy to clean
  • Inexpensive
  • Possible to DIY
  • Unlimited design choices
  • Heat resistant

CONS:

  • Grout can stain and be difficult to maintain
  • Tile can crack or break
  • Surface can end up uneven
  • Is not as valued as solid stone

Acrylic

Corian

Acrylic countertops (also referred to as solid surface) have been around for about 50 years. They are composed of acrylic and other resins that are pressed into sheets and other shapes. The most popular brands are Corian, Avonite and Swanstone.

PROS:

  • Invisible seams
  • Easy to repair
  • Integrated sinks are available
  • Stain resistant
  • Many patterns possible

CONS:

  • Easily scratched
  • Not heat resistant
  • Moderately expensive
  • Must be professionally installed

Granite

Sky-marble

Granite slabs are slices of natural stone cut from the earth, so each piece is unique.  If you are looking to have a statement countertop, granite is an excellent choice.  As there are so many different designs, there is a broad range in price for granite slabs.

PROS:

  • Heat resistant
  • Adds value to home
  • Very strong and durable
  • Thousands of natural designs

CONS:

  • Requires sealing to resist staining
  • Professional installation only
  • More expensive
  • Can have natural imperfections

Marble

Aria Stone Gallery

Marble is a timeless and beautiful material and may be what you visualize when you picture a new kitchen or bathroom in your home.  But marble is not the easiest surface to live with.

PROS:

  • Beautiful veining
  • Adds value to home
  • Heat resistant

CONS:

  • Easily scratched
  • Easily stained
  • Expensive
  • Must be professionally installed

Quartz

Cambria

Quartz countertops are comprised of up to 93% natural stone, the remainder being the colouring and resins that are proprietary to each manufacturer.  Popular brands include Cambria, Caesarstone, Hanstone (Canadian), and Silestone.  Quartz bridges the gap between natural stones and consumer wishes – the look of natural stone without the natural imperfections.

PROS:

  • Easy to maintain
  • Stain resistant
  • Adds value to home
  • Consistent and excellent patterning

CONS:

  • Must be professionally installed
  • Expensive