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Kitchens are the heart of the home and are a truly versatile space to entertain, dine and live in. There are plenty of kitchen styles, but two design options stand out: freestanding and integrated. Both have benefits and drawbacks, and both styles can be used to create a luxury kitchen. Here, we’ll explore integrated kitchen ideas as we weigh the main pros and cons, helping you select the perfect style for you.
They are ovens or fridges that are built into your cupboards or panels, creating a seamless kitchen. Kitchens with built-in appliances have smooth and streamlined finishes and are especially noticeable in open-plan living spaces where every inch counts.
They allow you to curate your ideal kitchen design, whether you prefer a contemporary or Shaker-style scheme. Integrated kitchen appliances typically include:
Unlike freestanding kitchen appliances, which are not fitted to the wall or floor and can be moved around, integrated appliances can’t be moved around as they’re permanently fixed in one space.
This is ideal if you visualise a more streamlined result for your kitchen, as integrated appliances make for a superb finishing touch.
The beauty of integrated appliances is that they adapt to the layout you have, allowing you to preserve a sense of ‘elbow room’ in your kitchen design. This makes it easier to spend time with family and friends or do the laundry without bulky free-standing furniture taking over the space.
They’re also effective in micro kitchen designs where every inch counts — after all, they take up the same amount of space as a freestanding unit. If room optimisation is important to you, why not get in touch with our team? We would love to advise you on the best kitchen appliances for your space.
Cabinet doors significantly minimise noise from hidden integrated appliances, meaning they tend to be much quieter than their freestanding counterparts. For example, you may have a fridge hidden behind a cabinet door to create a seamless look in your kitchen. With the door closed, the hum of the fridge won’t be heard while you’re working during the day or relaxing in the evening.
Aesthetically, integrated appliances have sleek and sophisticated appeal, helping to create a clean and luxurious finish across your entire layout. Take a look at our brochure for more examples of minimalist kitchen styles with integrated appliances, creating a truly polished kitchen aesthetic.
If you’re planning a multi-functional space, our handleless doors will create a fresh and effortless look. Combining both function and form, this ultra-minimalist style offers easy access to any integrated appliance. These appliances are tailored to fit your kitchen space, creating a truly bespoke kitchen that sits flush for a consistent layout and a seamless look and feel.
Whilst integrated appliances have many benefits, a downside is that you can’t remove them if you ever move home. They are permanent fixtures and, even if they could be transferred, they were designed to enhance your original kitchen.
This also means you can’t move them within your kitchen space. Once you’ve decided on a chosen spot for each appliance that is where they will stay.
Faults or breakdowns can occur with any appliance. While they can often be easily repaired by a professional, fixing integrated appliances (like a built-in oven) is a more complex job. It may be difficult and more expensive to carry out in comparison to its freestanding counterpart.
If you have more in the budget, invest it wisely. A high-specification integrated oven should last you around 10 years or more when cared for correctly, and more often than not, it comes with a warranty.
So should you opt for freestanding or integrated appliances? We have found a mix of the two suits most households. This means you get the best of both worlds. There’s nothing wrong with pairing built-in appliances with a range cooker, for a classic country-style kitchen aesthetic, for example.
For more inspiration, we welcome you to browse our brochure, which presents a selection of luxury kitchen styles and shades. Alternatively, we are on hand to help you realise your vision, so why not request a design consultation with our team?
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