The problem with any remodel is that within a few years it may have already gone out of style. This is especially true in kitchens, where the newest fashion trends seem to come and go on a whim. One minute wood paneling is the hottest stuff on the market and then a few years later it looks dated and out of place. But in many kitchens, it's actually the household appliances that age quickest. Remember when pea-green and avocado were hip and chic. Remember when the biggest refrigerator or microwave meant the best quality of product. Trends always change over time, so when remodeling a kitchen the best design philosophy is to stay as neutral as possible. And installing state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances is the smartest way to stay stylish and to keep it that way.

The Stainless Steel Solution
In today's modern kitchen, stainless steel appliances are treasured investments. If you own them, you're proud of them. If you don't have them, you want them. Why? Well, they're sleek and simple, yet still look tough and durable. Also, their elegance can come in any shape or size. From can openers to stoves, microwaves to refrigerators, this material can be found on any kitchen utensil. Plus, just turn on the TV and you'll see a million shows where professional cooks attempt to turn everybody into a gourmet chef. Therefore, many homeowners want to imitate the look of these shows as well. Stainless steel appliances help to replicate the look of real restaurant kitchens, giving an authority to any amateur cook by making the room itself feel luxurious and special. And unlike other trends, this is doesn't look to be a fad. Since they've always been considered high-end products, they've always been in style and this fact won't change anytime soon.

The New Neutral
Though stainless steel appliances add a more contemporary, industrial appearance to a home, they can also blend in with any pre-existing décor. White surfaces were once thought to be the ultimate neutralizer: since it's actually the absence of color, everything else can match it. However, the same can be said for metal: its naturally reflective material allows it to echo the look of any surrounding material. It's the best of both worlds. Due to their shine, they can really pop; but they can also fade into the background. Even if you don't like the "industrial" look and prefer wooden cabinets, linoleum floors, and Formica countertops, metallic veneers can still fit in with any personal design choice.

Metallic Maladies
But like any other design choice, these products aren't perfect. Here are some things to consider while making your decision.
Excessive Expense: They're popular but not cheap, sometimes costing up to twice as much as standard models.
More Matching: Yes, they can fit it to any pre-existing décor, but they can't stand alone. It looks strange to have a metal stove next to a black, plastic dishwasher. It's always a good idea to match your machines. So when you buy one, you may have to buy more.
Tough but Tender: Though durable, they can be damaged. Scratches are always a problem but can be eventually be filled in with special products. Dents can also occur, though sometimes this can add to their authenticity.
Maintenance: They can easily smudge and fingerprint. So you'll need to constantly clean them with hot, soapy water and occasionally apply a special polish to keep them shiny and looking new.

The Sharp microwave drawer is relatively new on the kitchen design scene, but in that fairly small amount of time it has made some big waves. What makes this microwave design so unique is where it sits. Instead of sitting on your countertop, or being installed overhead into your cabinetry, the sharp microwave drawer is installed beneath your countertop, and works just like you'd expect a drawer to operate. Instead of the swinging door you find on standard microwave ovens, the microwave drawer slides open, drawer style, giving you access to the oven from above.

The Sharp Microwave Drawer Saves Space
Why, you ask, would you want a microwave drawer in the first place? Two reasons. The first is that the drawer styling saves valuable countertop and cabinet space by being installed beneath the countertop instead of on top of it. It becomes a seamless addition to your kitchen cabinetry instead of an awkward, bulky, appliance taking up room on your kitchen countertop.

It's Convenient, Too!
The other reason homeowners are drawn to the microwave drawer is convenience. If you're tired of reaching up high and balancing hot casserole dishes as you pull them from your overhead microwave, this is the microwave solution for you. A microwave drawer is right there at countertop level, making it nearly effortless to reach in and pull out hot dishes, mugs, plates, and snacks. And you won't have to traverse across the kitchen for a place to set your dish down, either, since the microwave drawer sits right beneath your kitchen countertop to start with.

Great for Kids
A final reason the microwave drawer has turned some heads is that it's very kid-friendly. Overhead microwaves, and even countertop models, can be serious dangers to younger children pulling out hot beverages or dishes from high above. With the microwave drawer, however, the microwave has been lowered to kid level, making it safer to cook up everything from mac & cheese to popcorn. If you've got children in the home who are old enough to use a microwave, this is a microwave style you should definitely consider.

Don't Cook Much? Purchase a Model with a Range Top
If you're a microwave chef and rarely use your oven, you can save even more space in your kitchen by installing a Sharp microwave drawer with a range top, allowing you to get rid of that Stone Age oven altogether. This attractive feature can open up quite a bit more space for cabinet storage, especially in cramped kitchens where space it at a premium.

Microwave Drawer Installation
Probably the only drawback of a microwave drawer is installation. It does require quite a bit more knowledge and craftsmanship to install than just dropping a traditional unit on the counter and plugging it in. That being the case, talk to a contractor experienced in cabinetry or kitchen remodeling about what it's going to take to get a microwave drawer installed into your home. Who knows, this simple addition might end up inspiring a larger kitchen improvement project, such as installing that island you've always wanted or updating your cabinets altogether. The sky's the limit, and the future in microwaves is the Sharp microwave drawer.

Appliance Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

Don't look now, but there's been a revolution of late in the world of washers and dryers. What used to be a fairly straightforward purchase has now become a decision fraught with an overwhelming array of options and the weight of environmental responsibility. Never fear! We're here to set the record straight on washers and dryers, and which models, options, and styles should be at the top of your list.

Washing Machines
While they sound complicated, there are really only a few basic things you need to know about washing machines when you shop. First of all, you'll need to decide whether you want a front load model or a top loading model. Energy efficient front load models use about 2/3 of the amount of water that a cheaper, top loading washer uses to clean the same amount of clothes. Whether you're concerned about your pocket book or the environment, investing in a front loading washer is an excellent decision. These washers do come with a higher initial price tag, but when you consider energy and water savings, that front loading washer is going to pay for itself as the years go by. Beyond the standard front vs. top load debate, look for other options that will make your life easier. Automatic temperature controls and water level controls make for a more efficient appliance, and features like automatic detergent dispensers and timers make a more efficient life for you as well.

Clothes Dryer
The other half of the washers and dryers dilemma is choosing the right dryer for your family. A dryer isn't nearly as complicated of a machine when it comes to washers and dryers. Basically they consist of a large, heated tumbler that vents moisture out through a dryer vent as it dries your clothes. Your biggest decision here is going to be whether to choose a gas or electric model. Gas models are more expensive initially, though not exorbitantly so, and they are more efficient. Again, purchasing a gas-powered dryer is one of those investments that is going to pay for itself over the life of the machine when it comes to energy savings. Finally, look for a dryer that has either a moisture sensor or a thermostat that regulates interior temperature. These features allow the clothes dryer to gradually decrease heat and energy consumption over the course of the drying cycle. It adds years to the life of your appliance, and it is much easier on your clothes, meaning you'll save money on both energy bills and clothes purchases over the long run.

Washing Machine Maintenance and Dryer Tips
Washers and dryers require regular maintenance to ensure they operate properly and safely. With washing machine maintenance, the best thing you can do is check the rubber hoses from time to time for any sign of wear and tear. Often, small blisters or cracks develop in the rubber, which can rupture and lead to flooding and severe water damage to your home. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the hoses every five years, whether it's needed or not. If your hoses are more than five years old, it's probably a good idea to call in an appliance repairman to come and switch the old hoses out.

Other washing machine maintenance chores are more spot repairs than preventative measures. Motors, switches, pulleys, timers, agitators, and a host of other parts will wear out over time. Calling in an appliance repairman to fix these washing machine maintenance problems is your best bet, especially if you need to get your washer and dryer up and running as quickly as possible, which is usually the case.

When it comes to the dryer half of your washer and dryer setup, the main thing is keeping it clean of lint and making sure your unit is well-vented. Always install aluminum or metal venting hose, never plastic, to reduce fire hazard, and have your dryer vent hose cleaned out once a year to remove lint buildup. Besides those basic maintenance tasks, there's not much you can do except call in a repairman when more critical parts breakdown.

Appliance repair is an area that lends itself toward shady characters. Since the business doesn't require a lot of start up capital, it's easier for people to forge a temporary business that can take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. Inventing additional appliance problems, forcing homeowners to get unnecessary repairs, or simply overcharging can all be common practices from disreputable appliance repairmen.

ServiceMagic can eliminate a lot of the guesswork in choosing an appliance repairman. Still, before you talk to a repairman you should know the manufacturer and model of your appliance. This simple information will aid the repairman and show you have some knowledge of the situation. You should also ask your repairman if he or she is insured. Problems can arise with even the most expert and honorable contractor, and insurance can take care of larger expenses if something major does go wrong.

To Repair or to Replace?
There's no quick and easy answer for this common question. Each situation and appliance is different. What makes this question especially tricky is that you may not be able to diagnose your appliance problem yourself and are left hiring an appliance repairman just to find out whether or not the appliance can be justifiably repaired. While there probably isn't an easy or definitive answer, keep these things in mind when attempting to decide to repair or replace your appliance.

New Models—One of the hidden reasons to go ahead and replace an appliance is new technology. Newer models are continually pushing new standards of energy-efficiency, but new features and capabilities can also be a reason to purchase a new appliance. You may still want to look into repairing the older model. Some appliances, such as refrigerators, can become secondary appliances in places like the basement or garage. In some circumstances, you may also be able to repair and sell an old appliance to recoup some of the expense of a newer model.

New Life Expectancy—Try to figure out how much longer you can expect your appliance to last if you go ahead with the repair. Part of this determination is simply looking up the manufacturer's warranty and the life expectancy of your particular model and appliance. You should also talk to an appliance repairman on the phone and ask what the common problems are for that particular model. The average appliance can break down after only 10 to 20 years of service. A low-end water heater or microwave can fall into disrepair after only 5 years. Due to concerns with liability and professionalism, a repairman is going to be reluctant to try to diagnose what's wrong with your appliance over the phone, but he or she should be able to discuss the general characteristics of that appliance.

Auxiliary Costs—Make sure you have a comprehensive list of costs for both appliance repair and replacement. Many hidden costs may exist before, after, or outside of the initial estimate. Extra energy costs for continuing to run an older appliance is common, but may not be nearly as expensive as you imagine. If you decide to replace your appliance, removing the old appliance and disposing of dangerous chemicals should be part of your replacement costs. Remember, too, that not all expenses are financial. The peace of mind of knowing you have a new, reliable appliance that is under warranty for several years can ease the concern of future headaches.

We often talk about kitchens, laundry rooms, and other important areas of the home. These rooms need special attention because they're often used in daily life. But when you sit back and think about why they're so popular, it's often because they're so functional. It's where we do all our household work. However, are we really doing the work? Not really; our home appliances take the brunt of responsibility. These machines are major purchases in any house and therefore should always be the first focus in any design decision.

A Decision in Every Room
When remodeling a room, household appliances should be a primary consideration. When designing new houses, they'll be the priority because you often plan around this equipment. Or in kitchens remodels, if you want to reface the cabinetry, everything will eventually follow suit, including the look of your contraptions; and if you want these new tools to fit into pre-existing areas, they better become a main concern. But these mechanized conveniences aren't just found in the kitchen. They are small technologies spread all over the house: TV's, water-heaters, gym equipment, can openers. These items, whether part of the construction or not, help add selling value to a house. However, as you remodel, always consider function over style. A new gadget may look cool, but if it's never used, what's the point? So think about lifestyle, kids, age, etc. before investing.

New Gadget Guidelines
As you research home appliances, here are five ideas to consider before buying:

Always Update
First rule in remodeling is to update your look. That means you'll have to get rid of that avocado refrigerator and try to buy a more modern design. But when you update for a pre-existing space, always make sure to measure, measure, measure. Over the years, home appliances have significantly changed in size. Fridges have gotten big, microwaves have gotten tiny. So make sure to get it right the first time. Also, built-in equipment can be a great space-saver, but you always want them to be flush with cabinets and counters. Hence, the old construction rule applies to anything: "Measure twice, cut once."

New Technologies
As you update, it's a good idea to research new products on the market. Industrial-sized washing machines and dryers save large families time and labor. Trash compactors are a unique feature. Or maybe buy a warming drawer: an area under the oven that keeps food warm while you continue to cook. But beware of getting seduced. Some modern conveniences quickly become fads and eventually date a home's remodel.

Seamless Symmetry
It's important that you have a seamless style in your décor. So when buying home appliances try to match their looks and finishes. Maybe buy the same brand names to ensure continuity. Plus, stay neutral in color: white always works and stainless steel never goes out of style. Or possibly make them invisible with a sub-zero fridge, wood paneled machines, or dishwashers that conceal their controls.

Conserve and Save
There are two costs in any purchase: the initial price and operation costs. You can't help the price tag, but you can save money in the long run if you buy energy efficient machines. So look for the ENERGY STAR label. These products are regulated by the government and use significantly less power. This not only cuts down on water and electricity bills (sometimes up to half), it conserves natural resources as well.

Repair Reminders
As you buy new equipment, remember to check out the warranties. They're just another form of investment and can help save you money. But be aware of the limitations in your service contract and follow their guidelines because any deviation may void it. Plus, when you bring the product home, immediately check out all applications as soon as possible: break-downs often occur in their first use. Also, request and keep receipts (even for free services) in order to track the history of repair for when your warranty expires.

A wall oven is an oven unit that is installed higher on the wall in your kitchen rather than on the floor. These ovens have lots of advantages over traditional floor models, but by far the biggest selling point is convenience. Since they're higher up they make everything from checking on dishes to pulling food in and out of the oven much easier. And with additional amenities such as gas hookups, convection cooking, electronic displays, and contemporary design features, you're sure to find a model out there to fit your needs.

Single or Double Wall Oven?
One of the most popular modifications when buying one of these built in ovens is to choose one of the double oven models, allowing you to cook an entire Thanksgiving meal in one shot! A double wall oven is priced accordingly, however, so be sure you need one before you buy. It's nice to have two ovens once or twice a year when the entire extended family comes over for dinner, but are double wall oven models really worth the extra price? Most amateur cooks should get along fine with a single oven model, saving a few bucks to boot. If you're a regular entertainer, however, a double oven might be worth it in the end.

Electric or Gas?
The choice between an electric model and a gas wall oven is pretty much a matter of personal preference. While many professional cooks prefer gas ranges, the gas vs. electric debate isn't as heated when it comes to oven space. What's important is that you buy a high enough quality unit that you can trust it will cook evenly and clean up easily, regardless of the heat source. That means making sure electric models have hidden lower elements and that gas models have diffusers that evenly distribute heat from the burners at the bottom of the oven. Availability of hookups is also something to consider, and it's always smart to hire a professional to run wiring or gas lines to your new gas wall oven or electric model.

Convection Ovens
Whether you choose gas or electric, you'd be wise to look for an oven that utilizes convection heating. This is a fairly common feature on most wall-mounted ovens, but it's certainly not a standard feature across the board. Nevertheless, convection cooking is preferred by most professional chefs because it cooks foods faster, more evenly, more thoroughly, and at lower temperatures than traditional ovens. By some accounts convection cooking reduces cook times by up to 30%, meaning you'll save time, money, and get better results. This is one feature that's worth spending a little extra on if you have the means.

Other Features to Look For
Besides the aforementioned options, other things to pay attention to are oven size, controls, and interior lighting. And if you can afford it, you might want to check into some of the luxury electric and gas wall oven models as well. Trivection models combine conventional, microwave, and convection cooking, while oven refrigerators combine cooling and cooking power so you can put dishes in the oven in the morning, without having to worry about them spoiling, and then preset them to be cooked by the time you get home for dinner.

Whatever features you end up choosing, it's probably not a bad idea to talk a contractor who specializes in kitchen remodels, building, or design about the best way to install your new single or double wall oven. Because these units are built directly into your walls and cabinetry, it takes skill to install them properly and blemish free. Hiring a pro with experience is the best way to ensure you'll be admiring your new oven for a long time into the future.

No home or yard would be complete without an outdoor grill, but which one to choose: charcoal, propane, or natural gas? For casual or occasional grilling, charcoal or propane gas grills may be sufficient for your outdoor cooking needs, but for a reliable, hassle-free experience, a natural gas grill offers the kinds of advantages that you probably shouldn't overlook. Natural gas grills are inexpensive to operate, rarely fail, never run out of fuel, and give you a more temperature-controlled grill for superior cooking results.

Uses and Benefits of a Natural Gas Grill
Before you can get the most from your gas grill, you need to decide what size and style grill will match your needs. For twice-a-week evening dinners for you and your spouse you probably don't need to go overboard with a full, double-range grill. On the other hand, for a large family, neighborhood get-togethers, or the ability to throw a late summer party, splurging on a top-of-the-line grill may very well be worth it. More than simply throwing on burgers and dogs, you'll be able to cook a true feast all on your outdoor grill. Such investments may also warrant a little style. Instead of a free-standing grill, you might want to consider a built-in grill with a fully accommodating counter and storage.

Cost and Installation of Your Natural Gas Grill
Natural gas grills can be priced anywhere from $200 or $300 for a basic single basin grill or several thousand for a full gas grill range with shelving and all the accessories. More than the grill itself, you'll need to pay for its installation. Essentially, a gas run has to be installed from your house gas line out to the grill. The distance of the gas run will largely determine the cost of the installation.

You should discuss with a licensed gas fitter about using a quick connect, which employs a flexible hose. With this system, you'll be able to easily connect and disconnect your gas feed, as well as move your natural gas grill around your yard should you need to rearrange your outdoor setup. Naturally, this installation service adds an additional cost, but it's also what affords you the benefits associated with a natural gas grill.

Backyard Landscaping and Installations
There's really not much point to buying a natural gas grill without a suitable outdoor eating area. Patios are standard, but sprucing up your patio installation with a patio cover, patio lighting and heaters, outdoor misting systems, and general backyard landscaping will help you get the most from your gas grill and backyard. Whether you want to enjoy dinner outside after spending a hot summer afternoon in your cool swimming pool or want to enhance the atmosphere with a backyard garden, pond, or gazebo, the contractors are ready to help you with any of your backyard and home improvement needs.

Many homeowners find that smaller kitchens need to be remodeled to get the most from the available space. In smaller kitchens, storage is often inadequate, and foot traffic is all but forbidden while someone is cooking. Still, you don't want to give up every measure of luxury. Dishwashers are treasures, and many homeowners can't resist the temptation to install a dishwasher in even the smallest kitchens. That said, you shouldn't have to sabotage your entire cooking space just to fit a dishwasher into your already small kitchen. Portable dishwashers are convenient and efficient. While they don't have the same load capabilities as permanent dishwashers, they get the job done better than most people believe.

Benefits of a Portable Dishwasher
Besides the obvious space-saving properties of a portable dishwasher, they're great for homes that have a high dish turnover. Dirty dishes can sit in a larger dishwasher for days before it's time to run, causing odor problems and requiring more thorough pre-washing. Portable dishwashers will allow you to keep your kitchen consistently clean without wasting extra water and dishwashing detergent. Their smaller capacity makes them ideal for singles or smaller households, but people who eat out on a somewhat regular basis may also find a portable dishwasher meets their needs.

Portable dishwashers tend to run on the lower end of a couple hundred dollars while permanent dishwashers run closer to a grand. Not only are they smaller and cheaper, they can be wheeled in and out of your kitchen as the need arises. Nearly all portable dishwashers still have a heavy-duty wash cycle for your pots and pans, and several even offer a hot water booster for homes that tend to run out of hot water. You won't sacrifice any part of dishwashing performance if you buy a quality portable dishwasher.

Countertop Dishwasher
Countertop dishwashers are another version of the portable dishwasher. These dishwashers typically don't have wheels. Instead, they are designed, naturally, to sit on your kitchen countertop. If you have no interest in taking your dishwasher in and out of your kitchen, this might be the right choice for you. While a countertop dishwasher takes up counter space, there's no reason you can't use the top of the dishwasher as its own counter. You can put a fruit bowl, wine or knife rack, or any other small kitchen item on top of your countertop dishwasher.

Other Space Saving Ideas for Small Kitchens

• Use the space you do have. Install kitchen cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling.
• Use your walls. Hang small storage devices, like a spice rack, on your walls to supplement your kitchen cabinets. Built-in storage and small appliances can be invaluable to a small kitchen.
• Move as many items out of the kitchen as is reasonable. This can mean placing common items in the dining room or in roll-out pantries or kitchen carts. Auxiliary refrigerators can be placed elsewhere in the house. Be smart when doing this. You probably don't want to move items you use every day.
• Use lighting and other decorative elements to emphasize any open spaces. You don't necessarily want to pack items into every last square inch. It's good to have adequate storage, but you don't want to feel claustrophobic, either. Good lighting design and color will make your small kitchen look bigger than it actually is.

Professional chefs around the world have known for years that cooking with steam means moister, better tasting food and faster cooking times. In fact, steam assist ovens have been standard fare in the restaurant business for quite some time already. Lucky for homeowners, there are now a number of residential size steam assist ovens hitting the market that any home chef would love to own.

Why Cook with Steam?
There are many reasons to cook with steam, starting with food quality. Basically, you get all the benefits of basting, water bathing, and misting, all wrapped up in one handy appliance. Dried out turkeys, chewy roasts, and crusty casseroles become a thing of the past, and because steam cooks so much quicker than dry air, you'll cut your cooking times down significantly as well.

Steam Assist Ovens Offer More than Just Steam
While the steam assist feature is the main selling point on these ovens, they come with many other convenient additions as well. Convection heating is standard on most steam assist models, as is a fully computerized control pad that pre-determines the proper cooking temperature, and how much steam to use, for specific dishes and meats. Some models even come with internal temperature probes that monitor food in order to make sure it's cooked through and through. And if you're cooking skills are limited to the microwave, never fear. They sell combination microwave/steam assist ovens too. With all these wonderful features these ovens can almost cook your dinner for you!

Energy Smart Steam Assist Ovens
Food quality should be your top concern when choosing any oven, but energy use shouldn't be too far behind. Because steam assist ovens speed up cook times and internally regulate food temperatures, they also use less energy than traditional electric and gas ovens. With those benefits and other energy saving features, such as variable duration self-cleaning settings and the ability to spot clean, steam assist models are as green a choice as you're going to find when oven shopping.

Design and Installation
Steam assist ovens come in a wide variety of designs and colors to match just about any kitchen or space. If you're interested in a steam assist model, talk to an appliance dealer and kitchen contractor about purchasing and installing your new oven correctly. Because they need a water hookup as well as an energy source, this is one appliance installation that's better left to the pros.

If you're buying a new home, you probably already have a lot of built-in appliances. Often installed in the kitchen, these devices are part of the permanent construction and create a seamless appearance. This is their greatest asset: they become almost invisible, allowing you to focus on other design features in the room. The fact that they blend in with any home décor makes them very popular features since they also add convenience and value to the house. However, many think they own "built-ins" when they don't. Often people misuse this word, thinking they own permanently fixed equipment when they really own fitted appliances.

Is It a Real Built-in Appliance?
This generic term is often thrown around, loosely applying itself to any machine that's fitted into preexisting countertops and cabinetry. There's nothing wrong with this definition per se, but to get technical, there are small distinctions you should be aware of. When it comes to maneuverability, each device is available in a variety of forms.
Portable: Often referred to as freestanding, these machines are completely transportable, making them easy to position in a variety of ways. For instance, dishwashers and ranges that stand at the end of a counter system are entirely unattached to the actual construction.
Slide-in: This is the misnomer. Though you may have a range or refrigerator seemingly built into the kitchen, it's probably a portable unit that's simply slid into a preexisting nook. It seems permanent, but it's actually transportable, offering the best of both worlds: the look of stability without the commitment.
Built-in Appliance: These units are literally fixed into place, such as a wall-oven or stovetops installed into the actual countertops (sometimes these stovetops take on the look of a large open grill surface, maximizing space and efficiency while cooking).

Popular Installations
There are some devices, such as dishwashers and ranges, which should always be built into a kitchen: they look sharper and are simpler to use. Also, microwaves have become a common installation: building it into the cabinetry you're no longer resting it upon the counter and taking up valuable space. However, some newer innovations are hidden washing machines. You can always throw these in the closet or a separate room, but what if they were fitted below a countertop to create more usable area? Or what if they were installed inside a cabinetry system where they could be concealed with the swing of a door? Fridges are also being built into kitchens in order to optimize space, creating cabinets above and below, while smaller units could simply be slipped into a cabinet.

The Pros and Cons
Pros: They're great space savers. Unlike free-standing machines, they're literally backed against a wall, creating more floor space. Plus, due to their solid construction, they're simple to manage and easier to maintain and operate. They tend to be available in a variety of design styles and sizes, and often come with more features and options.
Cons: However, if you're buying new units to replace older items, make sure they fit in terms of width to avoid further remodeling. You want them to be at the right height as well—level with your counter for easy operation. Also, consider longevity: Will these permanent additions add value in the long run, or are they simply a passing fad?

Smaller Additions
When it comes to built-in appliances, there are always new inventions on the market. Some are cool and exciting, others are strange and trendy. Always consider which are worthwhile in terms of cost and convenience and which are simply wastes of time.
Blender: A blender or food processor mechanism can be installed in a countertop: just attach the pitcher or container onto the drive and you have an instant mixer at any time.
Coffeemaker: They're literally installed in the wall of a kitchen and are extremely convenient though a bit expensive. You could also have an espresso machine put in, though these tend to take up significant space.
Dishwasher Drawers: These small units fit under a counter and are the size of two standard drawers. They're quiet, efficient, take up less space, and can match any façade but oftentimes you'll need more than one for them to be useful.
Warming Drawers: Once again, the size of a standard drawer, these devices keep food warm while you cook, entertain, or pick the kids up at soccer practice.

Up until recently the undercounter freezer market catered almost exclusively to industrial kitchens in restaurants, hotels, and bars. Not so anymore. The convenience and accessibility of these time saving appliances is now the domain of residential kitchens as well.

Who Needs an Undercounter Freezer?
Presently these units are most often installed as a luxury item in high-end kitchen remodels. Considering the convenience they provide, however, it's easy to understand why homeowners across the country are paying a little bit extra to incorporate these freezers into their overall kitchen design. Think about it. How many times have you neglected food on the stove or in the oven while you dig through the black hole that is your garage deep freeze? And if you don't have a deep freeze, how nice would it be to free up a little space in your refrigerator's freezer with an undercounter model installed beneath the kitchen island? Either way, it's easy to see why these handy kitchen appliances are catching on so quickly.

Undercounter Freezer Design
One of the reasons that undercounter models haven't made waves until recently is that they have traditionally been built with a decidedly industrial look. Stainless steel, no frills models have been the norm for most of its history. Thankfully the design options available to homeowners have blossomed as undercounter models have risen in popularity for residential users. If your budget allows it, options such as compartmentalized freezer drawers that blend seamlessly into your cabinetry and glass front units that let you inventory your frozen goods at a glance are available for purchase. And there's always the traditional stainless steel, or solid black and white models if you're not into high-end design. Regardless of whether your style is utilitarian or aristocratic, there's a freezer out there to match your kitchen and your personality.

Other Benefits of the Undercounter Freezer
The benefits of an undercounter model don't stop there. Talk to any appliance retailer or installer, and they'll tell you that these handy freezers provide you with a lot more than a little extra freezer space. For the serious cook these units provide frozen goods at the ready without requiring the chef to abandon their post and cross the kitchen. And for kids these freezers are a real blessing. Any parent knows that the freezer is a happy hunting ground for hungry school age children, a place where they dig for everything from popsicles to pizza rolls. Unfortunately overhead refrigerator freezers can be hard for children to reach, and even dangerous when frozen goods come tumbling out. Undercounter models are at kid level, making finding after school snacks easier, and safer, than ever before.

Talk to a Kitchen Designer or Appliance Retailer
If you're interested in installing an undercounter freezer, talk to an appliance detailer and kitchen remodeler about how large of a project you'll need to undertake to get one of these beauties up and running. Likely it won't be too big of an inconvenience to install, making it possible for you and your family to enjoy the ease and convenience of a new undercounter freezer before you know it