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Buying a Kitchen Appliance? Read This First
Don’t leave the house without asking yourself these key questions
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It’s no surprise that the thought of designing a new kitchen can make many people break out in a cold sweat, particularly when the choices and decisions are seemingly endless. But the benefits of a newly renovated space can truly change your lifestyle, as proven by a recent Houzz survey of over 3,000 UK homeowners that showed kitchen renovations can pave the way to a renewed interest in healthier cooking and eating.
So rather than feeling frazzled by all the information available, take one design decision at a time and use these expert tips to help make the right choices for you.
So rather than feeling frazzled by all the information available, take one design decision at a time and use these expert tips to help make the right choices for you.
How Do I Use My Kitchen?
Evaluating how you use your kitchen is a great starting point for working out what types of appliances are right for you and how they will fit into your overall layout.
If you’re a keen entertainer, for example, choose a striking central island and appliances that work efficiently and discreetly to remove cooking smells and vapours, such as a slimline downdraft extractor. Or if you’re a passionate cook, go for high-performing appliances, like a steam combination oven, that will offer you precision and control.
On the flipside, in busy family spaces where everything is fast-paced and immediate, simple features, tonnes of storage and easy-to-maintain surfaces will be key, not to mention safety – cue an induction hob.
Get clued up on features. It’s all well and good researching appliances online, but when it comes to properly understanding their functions and appreciating their quality, you can’t beat the touch test. Where possible, road-test appliances to get an idea of their look, feel and capabilities. With Miele’s Taste for Design interactive courses, you can either slip on an apron and try out the appliances first-hand, or watch the experts at work and sample a taster menu at the same time.
Evaluating how you use your kitchen is a great starting point for working out what types of appliances are right for you and how they will fit into your overall layout.
If you’re a keen entertainer, for example, choose a striking central island and appliances that work efficiently and discreetly to remove cooking smells and vapours, such as a slimline downdraft extractor. Or if you’re a passionate cook, go for high-performing appliances, like a steam combination oven, that will offer you precision and control.
On the flipside, in busy family spaces where everything is fast-paced and immediate, simple features, tonnes of storage and easy-to-maintain surfaces will be key, not to mention safety – cue an induction hob.
Get clued up on features. It’s all well and good researching appliances online, but when it comes to properly understanding their functions and appreciating their quality, you can’t beat the touch test. Where possible, road-test appliances to get an idea of their look, feel and capabilities. With Miele’s Taste for Design interactive courses, you can either slip on an apron and try out the appliances first-hand, or watch the experts at work and sample a taster menu at the same time.
What’s My Kitchen Layout?
From tiny galley layouts, to all-in-a-row open plan spaces, every kitchen footprint is unique, as are the people using it. Take some time to consider what appliances you’re most likely to benefit from and the challenges your kitchen might face.
With the current trend for creating multi-use spaces where everyone can cook, eat, entertain and help with homework, it makes sense to opt for quiet appliances that will help make one-room living appealing and encourage conversations to flow.
For smaller homes and apartments, on the other hand, the priority might be compact solutions, like undercounter fridges and freezers, that retain valuable worktop space but still offer plenty of storage. If you have just enough space to squeeze in an island, ensure it works doubly hard by positioning the hob or sink there for a multitasking station. Just be sure to keep at least 900 millimetres between the island and fixed units so you have space to walk around freely and open appliance doors.
Get to know the work triangle. No matter what the layout or size of your space, a good rule of thumb is to create an efficient working triangle, that is, keeping the most-used areas, the fridge, the sink and the cooking zone in close proximity to one another. It’s also a good idea to keep the bin near the dishwasher, hob and food prep space for convenience.
From tiny galley layouts, to all-in-a-row open plan spaces, every kitchen footprint is unique, as are the people using it. Take some time to consider what appliances you’re most likely to benefit from and the challenges your kitchen might face.
With the current trend for creating multi-use spaces where everyone can cook, eat, entertain and help with homework, it makes sense to opt for quiet appliances that will help make one-room living appealing and encourage conversations to flow.
For smaller homes and apartments, on the other hand, the priority might be compact solutions, like undercounter fridges and freezers, that retain valuable worktop space but still offer plenty of storage. If you have just enough space to squeeze in an island, ensure it works doubly hard by positioning the hob or sink there for a multitasking station. Just be sure to keep at least 900 millimetres between the island and fixed units so you have space to walk around freely and open appliance doors.
Get to know the work triangle. No matter what the layout or size of your space, a good rule of thumb is to create an efficient working triangle, that is, keeping the most-used areas, the fridge, the sink and the cooking zone in close proximity to one another. It’s also a good idea to keep the bin near the dishwasher, hob and food prep space for convenience.
What’s My Budget?
Consider how much you are willing to spend on appliances overall, or if any take priority over others, depending on how you use your kitchen. For example, a high-performing hob and oven might play the starring role in your kitchen, or maybe luxurious extras, such as an in-built coffee machine for those on the go, or a wine fridge for avid entertainers, will be your focus.
Don’t overlook the benefits of appliances that feature super-efficient technology that can help reduce electricity and water consumption. This will make savings on your energy bills that can be put towards any installation costs.
Try before you buy. Wherever possible, talk to an in-store expert to get a real understanding of each appliance. Open doors, press buttons, play with features, and you’ll gauge what works for you or doesn’t, while enjoying a coffee and chat with an expert product advisor. What could be easier?
Consider how much you are willing to spend on appliances overall, or if any take priority over others, depending on how you use your kitchen. For example, a high-performing hob and oven might play the starring role in your kitchen, or maybe luxurious extras, such as an in-built coffee machine for those on the go, or a wine fridge for avid entertainers, will be your focus.
Don’t overlook the benefits of appliances that feature super-efficient technology that can help reduce electricity and water consumption. This will make savings on your energy bills that can be put towards any installation costs.
Try before you buy. Wherever possible, talk to an in-store expert to get a real understanding of each appliance. Open doors, press buttons, play with features, and you’ll gauge what works for you or doesn’t, while enjoying a coffee and chat with an expert product advisor. What could be easier?
What’s My Kitchen Style?
If you’re looking for a statement appliance that will stand out from the crowd, choose an island cooking hood that will add a sculptural element to your space. Or if a sleek, seamless look appeals to your minimalist tendencies, then opt for built-in appliances and hidden ceiling extractors that won’t interrupt the flow of the space.
Think beyond cool stainless steel. If you are creating a cosy, country feel, white appliances will offer a softer touch. While contemporary, innovative spaces call for state-of-the-art features, such as a dishwasher that opens with a knock of the door.
Book in with an expert. Whatever your style, it pays to spend time finding inspiration on design sites so you can build visual reference points that you can share with an expert. Miele’s kitchen experts can advise you on the ideal appliances for you (while you enjoy a cooking demo!) and provide you with valuable advice you can take away and share with your build team.
This story was written by the Houzz Sponsored Content team.
If you’re looking for a statement appliance that will stand out from the crowd, choose an island cooking hood that will add a sculptural element to your space. Or if a sleek, seamless look appeals to your minimalist tendencies, then opt for built-in appliances and hidden ceiling extractors that won’t interrupt the flow of the space.
Think beyond cool stainless steel. If you are creating a cosy, country feel, white appliances will offer a softer touch. While contemporary, innovative spaces call for state-of-the-art features, such as a dishwasher that opens with a knock of the door.
Book in with an expert. Whatever your style, it pays to spend time finding inspiration on design sites so you can build visual reference points that you can share with an expert. Miele’s kitchen experts can advise you on the ideal appliances for you (while you enjoy a cooking demo!) and provide you with valuable advice you can take away and share with your build team.
This story was written by the Houzz Sponsored Content team.
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