Refrigerators have evolved into a stunning selection of both form and function. Once referred to as the “ice box” in turn-of-the-century kitchens, this appliance is the heart of the kitchen. By carefully researching and evaluating all the choices available, you will soon come to realize that no two refrigerators are created equal!
If you are going for a high-end luxury kitchen, a must have is a built-in refrigerator that is “counter depth”. These are 25” deep, and usually at least 84” tall. Common widths are 36”, 42”, and 48” wide. One of the most popular high-end brands is the Sub-Zero, which although pricey, is a beautiful appliance. Plan on budgeting four to five thousand dollars or more for a Sub-Zero. Other manufacturers such as GE Monogram, Viking, LG, as well as others make built-in refrigerators. One nice thing about the built-ins is that they all can receive an appliance panel, which can slip in the door and have a cabinet door attached to match the look of the cabinets. This really makes the appliance look built in.
A relatively new concept for refrigeration is the built-in, under counter refrigerator. These appliances generally have two drawers that open, and each drawer can be fitted with an appliance panel. On some models, the appliance is so integrated with the adjacent cabinets, that you cannot even tell it is not a cabinet. These models are a great secondary refrigerator to hold extra items when the main unit is full. For the real cooks out there, strongly consider spending the extra money for one of these. True cooks that have put these units in have really commented how convenient and useful this appliance has proven to be. Some clients like them so much, they put two of them in their kitchen!
Refrigerators come in either side-by-side or top and bottom configurations. This really comes down to personal preference. Take the time necessary and visit as many appliance stores as you can in order to look at as many models possible. You might surprise yourself and find a refrigerator that you just love, that you didn’t even know about!
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