If you’re starting research for your new kitchen, you’re likely to come across a whole host of smart and tech-enabled appliances and features. But should you include them in your plans – are they worth the extra cost, and will they help you to future-proof your kitchen? Let’s take a look at a few of the most popular.
No-touch sensor taps
No-touch taps and other appliances (such as bins) can be really useful in the kitchen. When you have dirty hands from food prep, you can turn the tap on and wash them without having to touch them. The same goes for a motion sensor bin, which opens when you approach so you don’t have to touch it. These features are simple and not too expensive, but they can save on cleaning and be more hygienic. In the case of smart taps, they can save water too.
Wi-Fi enabled appliances
New Wi-Fi and smart appliances are being launched all the time, an obvious sign that this kitchen trend is taking off. You can find smart features in fridges, which reorder items you’re low on, warn you about use-by dates and optimise settings to keep your food fresher for longer. You can also use apps on your phone to control appliances like your oven, setting it to pre-heat or turn off when you’re out. These appliances may be quite cool and the latest trend, but they cost a lot more than traditional versions – so you should only splash the cash if you’ll find the smart features useful.
No-touch sensor taps
No-touch taps and other appliances (such as bins) can be really useful in the kitchen. When you have dirty hands from food prep, you can turn the tap on and wash them without having to touch them. The same goes for a motion sensor bin, which opens when you approach so you don’t have to touch it. These features are simple and not too expensive, but they can save on cleaning and be more hygienic. In the case of smart taps, they can save water too.
Wi-Fi enabled appliances
New Wi-Fi and smart appliances are being launched all the time, an obvious sign that this kitchen trend is taking off. You can find smart features in fridges, which reorder items you’re low on, warn you about use-by dates and optimise settings to keep your food fresher for longer. You can also use apps on your phone to control appliances like your oven, setting it to pre-heat or turn off when you’re out. These appliances may be quite cool and the latest trend, but they cost a lot more than traditional versions – so you should only splash the cash if you’ll find the smart features useful.
Pop-up extraction fans
These downdraft extraction fans, which appear seemingly out of nowhere from your kitchen worktop, have been a popular kitchen trend for a few years now – but are they worth having? They tend to be a lot more expensive than ordinary extractors, but they can also be easier to install in some kitchens. Many people like these extractors for the sleek look they offer, as they disappear after use and they avoid the need to have a bulky extractor unit at head height.
If you have your heart set on putting your hob in an island unit, so you can face the room while cooking, a pop-up extractor can be a good choice. You’ll need to save a good amount of space for the extraction unit (which often goes under the floor) in the island below, and make sure the extraction rate is up to the job.
Smart lighting
Kitchens often have to perform many different roles. They are primarily spaces for cooking and sharing family meals, but you’ll also use yours for entertaining and social occasions, as well as romantic dinners for two, homework and catching up with a friend over a coffee. This is where a smart lighting scheme can come in handy. At the touch of a button, you can select customised lighting that perfectly matches the atmosphere you’re aiming for – without having to switch a number of switches off and on.
Charging points
Convenient places to charge your phone are becoming just as essential as ordinary plug sockets, especially in busy family kitchens. They’re a must if you’re designing a new kitchen!
If you need help fitting the latest appliance into your kitchen, A&J Kitchens can help. Get in touch on 07766 017438 to tell us about your plans.
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