Appliances are one of the most significant decisions when remodeling your kitchen. They affect how your space functions and how it supports your lifestyle. At Wake Remodeling, while we don’t supply appliances, we design around the ones you choose, ensuring a seamless fit and a layout that works beautifully with your selections.
Here’s what to consider as you begin your appliance shopping journey.
1. Start with How You Cook (and Live)
Appliance selection should reflect your habits more than just trends:
- Love to cook? You may want a pro-style gas range, steam oven, or a powerful hood.
- Prefer quick meals? A microwave drawer and slide-in range might cover all your needs.
- Have a large family? Prioritize capacity—think double ovens, high-efficiency dishwashers, and oversized fridges.
- Love to host? Consider specialty appliances like beverage centers, warming drawers, or a second dishwasher.
- Looking for efficiency? Choose Energy Star-rated appliances and induction cooktops for performance and sustainability.
2. Appliances to Think Through
Refrigerator
Choose based on your storage needs—French door, side-by-side, or built-in panel-ready units. Internal organization and freezer placement also matter.
Range or Cooktop + Wall Oven
Ranges combine cooktop and oven; separating them allows for flexibility. The type of cooking surface you choose—gas vs. induction—can make a major difference.
Ventilation Hood
Crucial for air quality and cabinetry protection—especially if you do a lot of high-heat cooking.
Dishwasher
Look for features like third racks, adjustable tines, and quiet operation—especially important in open-concept spaces.
Microwave or Speed Oven
Whether tucked into a drawer or integrated into cabinetry, these appliances add flexibility and save counter space.
Optional Appliances
Depending on your space and lifestyle, consider steam ovens, built-in coffee systems, wine or beverage fridges, ice makers, or warming drawers.
3. Induction vs. Gas: What’s Right for You?
Induction and gas are two of the most popular choices for cooktops and ranges—each with distinct advantages:
🔥 Gas Cooking
- Pros: Immediate heat control, visual flame, preferred by many traditional and professional cooks.
- Cons: Less efficient heat transfer, can heat the kitchen more, and requires a gas line hookup.
⚡ Induction Cooking
- Pros: Super fast, precise heat; cool-to-the-touch cooktop; energy efficient; great for families with kids.
- Cons: Requires compatible cookware (magnetic), may have a learning curve for traditional cooks.
4. Panel-Ready vs Statement Appliances
The look you’re after plays a significant role:
- Panel-ready appliances offer a seamless look that matches cabinetry.
- Statement appliances like a bold-colored range or pro-style hood can anchor your kitchen’s aesthetic.
- Fully integrated appliances disappear into the design for an ultra-clean finish.
5. Brand Options to Explore
When selecting appliances, explore brands based on your needs and budget:
Luxury Brands:
Sub-Zero, Wolf, Thermador, Miele, Gaggenau – Known for longevity, performance, and sleek design integration.
Mid-Range Favorites:
Bosch, GE Café, KitchenAid, Fisher & Paykel – Offer a balance of quality, design, and price.
Budget-Conscious Picks:
Whirlpool, Samsung, Frigidaire – Solid performance with a range of features at a more accessible price point.
Are you unsure what’s right for you? We’ll help guide your layout to support your preferred appliance choices.
6. We Design With Your Choices in Mind
While we don’t select or purchase appliances for you, we ensure your kitchen design perfectly supports your choices, including appliance clearances, cabinet integration, and venting solutions. You choose what fits your life, and we’ll make it work beautifully.
Let’s Design a Kitchen That Works for You
Ready to build a kitchen that functions seamlessly around the appliances you love? Wake Remodeling will help you craft a space that balances beauty, layout, and everyday performance. Contact us today to get started.
