HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT KITCHEN APPLIANCES FOR YOUR HOME

Few of us know how many choices need to be made when building a home, until we reach the task at hand. From size to style, functionality and budget, there are several steps involved in picking the best appliances for your kitchen – it can be hard to figure out where exactly to start. It all starts with asking yourself these five important questions.

1. What Do I Need?

The first step is thinking about your needs and doing some broad initial research. Consider the appliance features that best suit your needs and lifestyle. “When it comes to ovens or cooktops, if you have a large family or entertain guests frequently, having more than one oven may be more important for you,” Bosch expert Maja Pejovic says. “You might also want to go for a larger sized cooktop.” However, don’t get too caught up on budget or size just yet. Focus first on your blue sky desires and dream appliance features. The refining process comes later.

2. What Is Your Kitchen Layout

Whether you’re building an entirely new kitchen or doing a small renovation on an existing one, your appliance choices will likely be limited by your layout. (Sure, you can build a kitchen around the appliances if you’re working from scratch, but for most people layout dictates appliance choice). “The overall layout of your kitchen will dictate how the appliances fit with one another,” Maja adds. “For example, having the oven directly under the cooktop means they have to be the same size, or you may want to have a bank of two ovens if you’re a keen entertainer, with a cooktop sitting on its own.” Layout also affects the size of each appliance.

3. What Is Your Style?

You’d be forgiven for thinking that appliances are only available in stainless steel, but there are always new designs and style innovations to consider. For instance, the Black Glass Ovens are sleek and chic for a thoroughly stylish kitchen. “When navigating the latest trends, it’s important to go for a style that not only elevates your design but will also have longevity across the seasons,” Maja says. “Black glass appliances provide a contemporary edge over traditional stainless steel, and are perfect for those seeking a timeless look that will also set their kitchen apart.”

4. What’s The Latest Technology?

This is where you’ll have a hard time digesting the barrage of information coming your way. Google can provide an overwhelming response, so you may want to start with one trusted site or brand to start learning about what’s new. A better alternative may be to go to a store in person and have a sales representative talk you through it. When it comes to ovens, for instance, consider things like pyrolytic self-cleaning features, steam cooking functionality, and intelligent pre-settings that can assist in quick and seamless baking, roasting or grilling.

5. What Is Your Budget?

Finally, the big and sometimes curly question of budget will determine what you actually get. The buck stops here, as it were. Maja’s best advice is to do your due diligence when researching and buying appliances, investing in quality pieces that will last a lifetime, rather than going for the cheapest option you can find. Quality kitchen appliances with the latest innovative technology will stand you in good stead for years to come – making cooking a breeze in your home and increasing saleability when you decide to move on. Furthermore, don’t forget to check the energy ratings. While you may splurge a little more on an appliance with a higher energy star rating, it could be well worth your while when it comes to gas or electricity bills in the long run.

One of the reasons why we are considered Wagga’s best builder, is our high quality standard inclusions. SMEG appliances come standard in all of our homes and includes a 900mm stainless steel freestanding cooker, with a gas cook top and electric oven, a 900mm stainless steel ducted range hood, and a 600mm stainless steel dishwasher. We would only want the best in our home, so why wouldn’t you? To get started on your dream home contact us today on 6921 9988, and ask us about our Wagga house & land packages and Wagga land we currently have available!

For more tips from the experts visit realestate.com.au/lifestyle

Cristy Houghton