Among the many kitchen design trends projected for 2019 is one you might want to consider employing in your own kitchen. It’s called integration, and it can prove especially useful if you’re planning a large-scale kitchen remodel for your Atlanta home.
The integrated kitchen
An “integrated” kitchen is one where the looks of cabinetry and appliances match, giving the room a seamless and uniform appearance. Often, the appliances are placed in niches so they stand flush with cabinets and countertops.
Integration is commonly seen in modern kitchens where stainless steel refrigerators and ovens blend with drawers and doors of the same material, but it can also be applied to other room styles. For example, a rustic kitchen can be integrated if wooden furniture and paneling are finished to mimic the color of appliances. Alternatively, appliances can be custom-finished to mimic cabinetry – such as by having a refrigerator’s doors look like a cabinet front.
These approaches illustrate the difference between partial integration, which simply keeps appearances consistent, and full integration, which completely “hides” appliances.
Why integrate?
Integration is largely a matter of personal taste and preference, but there are also practical benefits to doing it:
- If your kitchen space is small, a sleek look can make it seem larger.
- If you want more floor space, integrating appliances can help open up room, since everything will be set into or against walls.
- An integrated kitchen lends more visual appeal to an open floor layout.
- If you entertain new guests often, the seamless design could always serve as a conversation piece. As Young Huh tells ElleDecor.com, “You no longer need to see appliances sticking out everywhere anymore and that’s the new face of luxury.”
How would you integrate your kitchen?
You need to discuss two key points with your Atlanta contractor if you’re thinking of integrating your kitchen:
- Current kitchen layout. An integrated kitchen hinges on niches, nooks, and other recessed areas to hold appliances. Can you build an integrated kitchen from your current layout? Or will you need to tear it down to create a brand-new open plan instead? Take note that the presence of existing nooks isn’t enough; they will also need to be deep enough to accommodate refrigerators, ovens, and the like to your intended effect.
- Built-in and slide-in appliances. You could have your appliances built into nooks, or just slide them in later. Built-in ones make for a more streamlined and space-saving look. However, maintaining and repairing them take more time and labor, since parts and wires are buried deep inside or behind cabinetry.
If the idea of kitchen integration appeals to you, Sterling Works can advise you on how you can proceed with this kind of kitchen remodel.
Sources:
What to Expect from Kitchen Designs in 2019, ElleDecor.com
Integrated Appliances 101, KitchenDesignConcepts.com
5 Differences Between Partially and Fully Integrated Appliances, KitchenMagic.com
