Expect increased demand for these features
YSN Staff
While laundry products are clearly essential for consumers, it’s the kitchen — and all its associated appliances — that remain central to most households.
Building on the notion that the kitchen is the heart of the home, Real Simple, a consumer lifestyle magazine, asked five interior designers to cite their most anticipated appliance trends within that the most of important rooms. Here’s what they said:
Induction Cooktops
Hema Persad, founder of Sagrada Studio, is sold on both the energy efficiency and aesthetics of the electromagnetic stovetops, pointing to their “sleek, almost invisible look.” And, from a purely practical standpoint, the flat surface “doubles as an additional counter space,” she told the publication.
Deluxe Wine Coolers
Becky Shea, founder of Becky Shea Design, said she frequently chooses high-end wine coolers with integrated refrigerator and freezer drawers for her clients, and not necessarily for the kitchen. “People are leaning more toward entertaining at home,” she told Real Simple, and whether destined for kitchen duty, a den or a home lounge, “this has become a staple that really hits the mark for many.”
Voice-Activated Appliances
No doubt spurred by the ease and ubiquitousness of Alexa, Amazon’s cloud-based voice assistant, consumers are accepting — and expecting — the same functionality from their appliances. “They offer convenience to home cooks who have their hands full,” said Linette Dai, founder of Linette Dai Design. “They also provide easy accessibility for those with mobility needs.”
AI Abilities
Closely related to voice-activated appliances are “Jetson’s”-like models imbued with AI smarts. As Vyanca Soto, founder of Market Studio Interiors observed, vendors including GE, Miele, LG and Samsung are packing their appliances with advanced features like food ID systems for refrigerators and ovens. Using on-board cameras and AI programming, the systems can alert an owner when a refrigerator item is running low or identify a dish and suggest optimal cooking modes.
“It’s exciting to witness how AI is transforming our living spaces and bringing us closer to functional and highly personalized systems that truly enrich daily life,” she told the magazine.
Black, Beige and Cream
Perhaps as a palliative to all the high-tech applications, consumers are stepping back from stainless steel in favor of more soothing and traditional tones. “For those who don’t want stainless steel to affect the design aesthetic of their kitchen, we are seeing more companies produce their appliances in a sleek black finish,” said Dai, who anticipates more beige and cream colorways as well.
In fact, ranges of all stripes will be rising in popularity next year, predicted Tiffany Matthews, founder of Motif Homes. “The range serves as the focal point of the kitchen, and we believe it deserves to shine,” she said.
Hat tip to Real Simple.
