These are complicated times when it comes to choosing appliances; first, there is the sheer array of basic kitchen appliances and their feature-rich counterparts (like convection vs. steam ovens, warming drawers, refrigerator drawers, wine cabinets, etc.). Then, there is the smart technology factor – which continues to permeate the world of kitchen appliances – improving your workflow when you pair the right features with your preferred cooking methods.
We really are heading into an era where dinner can be cooked – virtually – with a few taps on your smartphone, but deciding whether to invest now or later is up to you. Your kitchen designer should be your greatest ally when it comes to helping you select the kitchen appliances that make the best and smartest sense as you plan a future kitchen design.
The Future of Appliances in Chicago Kitchen Remodels
Here is a look at how high-tech appliances are changing the way you use your kitchen.
The smart kitchen network
First and foremost, like all aspects of home design, kitchens are affected by the rising popularity of internet connectivity, home automation and artificial intelligence. The merging of these three worlds allows certain aspects of the kitchen’s work to be done automatically and/or remotely, depending on the level of automation desired.
These technologies make it easier for you to remain abreast of what’s in the fridge, what’s available to cook based on what’s in the fridge or to preheat the oven before you’ve left the office. Innovators currently foresee AI taking part in assisting with food prep and cooking instructions, and they’re even working on 3-D printers that will make your pet’s meals and throw a toy or two in there to boot.
Our appliances are getting smarter than ever
Not too long ago, we posted, Why a Convection Oven?, and Why a Steam Oven?, highlighting the various features each of these appliances offers for home chefs. The latest models of these desirable oven options are pre-programmed to provide even more accurate cooking temperatures and times, offering preset cooking modes that are specific to the types of foods being prepared. Thus, you don’t have to figure out how to vary temperatures and cook times for pastries vs baked goods, or for roasting different types of vegetables.
Ovens will increasingly have the ability to provide specific drop-down menus, allowing you to select the type of food or dish you’re cooking, along with the desired level of done-ness, so the oven can determine the proper cooking temps, finishes and resting cycles.
Other appliances benefiting from smart technology include microwave ovens that combine standard microwave technology with convection features, dishwashers that sense the grime-level on kitchenware and adjust cleaning cycles accordingly and appliances that detect their own maintenance issues and alert the homeowner’s smartphone to schedule quicker assessment and repair.
Remote technologies
The more we’re able to control the kitchen from smartphones and gadgets, the more flexible our kitchen designs can be. These abilities make kitchens more accessible for everyone and may also make it easier to re-think appliance placement since an appliances usability may no longer be related to its location.
If you’re interested in getting the most out of smart, networked and AI-geared appliances, it’s important to work with a designer who is knowledgeable about the future of kitchen appliances and can determine which features are worth investing in for your kitchen remodeling project.
The design professionals at Kitchens & Baths Unlimited make it a priority to remain abreast of the latest and greatest kitchen appliance features. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about futuristic appliances for your Chicago kitchen remodel.
