How to Choose Appliances

Appliances are a critical part of every kitchen. They play a large part in both the appearance and functionality of your kitchen. But the route to find the right appliances can be tricky. We talked to JF designer and showroom manager Paula to get her tips on how to make this task a little easier.

When to choose appliances.

Ideally you should have a rough idea of the size and types of appliances that you want in your kitchen before you start your project. Size, type and number of appliances are critical elements in the final layout of the kitchen. Choosing a range or choosing a cooktop can create a slippery slope that may change the entire layout of the space. For example, a cooktop will require wall ovens, that may change the electrical needs and so on. The same is found when choosing between a standard dishwasher and dishwasher drawers, or adding refrigerator drawers. These decisions are best made prior to finalizing a floor plan. But something important to note is that you should not actually buy anything until you have discussed it with your designer. It is good to have the flexibility to change appliances if it makes sense with the design and lifestyle.

Takeaway: Research early. Make your purchase after your layout has been finalized.

Your appliance team.

Paula always recommends visiting different appliance showrooms. Clarke showrooms are an exceptional resource. They have beautiful, high tech showrooms throughout New England. And their team’s knowledge is incredible. Visiting showrooms will show you the new things, the classics, a range of sizes and finishes. You can learn about the options and figure out what makes sense for your space.  You + Appliance Specialist + Designer. That’s the appliance team.

Takeaway: Listen to the pros, they know their stuff.

Appliance Resources.

Ask everyone you know for their opinions, check out the design blogs and consumer reports.On the same note, know when to stop asking. Too much information can make the decision harder because everyone has a different opinion. To truly get a feel for how the appliances work, and if you want the bells and whistles that they’re offering try a class. Clarke showrooms offer everything from steam oven demonstrations to convection cooking classes. Clarke showrooms feature live kitchens where you can see live steam, induction, convection and professional products in action.

Takeaway: Try before you buy.

Paula’s Top 5 considerations – before your purchase your appliances.

1  Make sure you allocate your appliance budget wisely. Are you really going to use that fancy (expensive) appliance you have your heart set on? Or does it make sense to put the money in something else?

2  What are your priority appliances? And, if you’re working with a tight budget, what can be purchased later?

3  Does your design call for appliance panels or stainless steel?

4  Be savvy. Shop around and see if any brand has floor sales or discounts in the brand and style that you love.

5  Function vs. design. What do you really need, and what do you think you need. For example, a lot of people like the idea of double ovens but will never use both at the same time. Know your needs and be realistic.

Appliance Trends.

The Galley is an innovation in appliances. It is a complete culinary system where one can prepare, cook, serve, entertain and clean all in one central place. This new kitchen work line concept is much more efficient than the traditional work triangle. Each Galley is designed, engineered and hand-crafted in the USA. The Galley will be featured in one of our new showroom displays – as soon as we can get back to work. Stay tuned.

Speed ovens. That’s a combination oven + microwave.  Getting rid of the microwave, from a design perspective, is ideal because they are often a bit of an eye sore in the kitchen. But their function is undeniable. A speed oven is both functional and more attractive.

Paula’s pearls of appliance wisdom

Function, function, function. Appliance sizes should reflect your lifestyle. We, the designers, will make whichever appliances you chose look beautiful in the new kitchen.

Do your homework. Research and see what is available. Don’t let someone decide on what appliances are good for you. Choosing appliances is a little like choosing tiles. You really don’t know what is available until you go out and see what are new and on display. You need to see and touch and ask questions.  There are enough new products out there that it’s worth doing the research.

We are looking forward to the time when you can visit Paula in person at our new Boston Design Center showroom. But, until then, we are working hard from home with solid remote communication plan in place. So give us a call to get started on that all important research.