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The Art of Home Design: Kitchen Fixtures and Appliances

The Art of Home Design: Kitchen Fixtures and Appliances

Homebound's Guide to Selecting the Perfect Fixtures and Appliances for Your Kitchen

5 min

Welcome to our latest exploration of kitchen design, where we delve into the art of selecting the perfect fixtures and appliances for your home. At Homebound, we believe that a well-designed kitchen combines beauty and functionality seamlessly. In this post, we'll guide you through the essential elements of kitchen fixtures and appliances, from sinks and faucets to cooking appliances and refrigeration options, helping you create a kitchen that's tailor made for your needs and style.

Cooking Appliances

Your cooking appliances are the workhorses of the kitchen. When selecting these, consider both functionality and aesthetics. Here are several options to choose from:

  • Range: This all-in-one appliance is a combined stove and oven. Compared to a cooktop, it's more cost effective and easier to install and clean.
  • Cooktop: A burner on top of the counter, often paired with a separate wall oven. It offers a more custom look and more access to drawers, making it great for rental spaces or ADUs.
  • Rangetop: Similar to a cooktop but with the front extending out of the cabinets and knobs on the front. It provides more cooking space and a more professional look, ideal for cooking enthusiasts

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Comparison of range, cooktop, and rangetop options, highlighting their features and suitability for different kitchen setups.

Range Hoods and Ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for maintaining a clean and odor-free kitchen by removing smoke and cooking fumes. Consider the power of your hood based on your cooking habits; if you frequently stir-fry or use high heat, opt for a more powerful model. With various types available, you can find the perfect hood to keep your kitchen fresh and inviting.

  • Microwave/Hood Combination: Combines a microwave and vent hood in one appliance, ideal for gaining storage space.
  • Under Mount Hood: Installed under cabinets but above the cooktop, providing effective ventilation without taking up too much space.
  • Wall Mount Hood: Mounted against a wall, offering very effective ventilation and a sleek look.
  • Downdraft Hood: Connected to ducts beneath the floor, it can disappear from view and is perfect for island installations.
  • Custom Hood: Can be a variation on any other type of hood, offering a unique style and custom feel.
Different hood options including microwave/hood combination, under mount, wall mount, downdraft, and custom hoods.

Refrigeration

The refrigerator is often the largest appliance in the kitchen, making it a focal point of your design. Popular styles include:

  • Side by Side: Freezer is located next to the refrigerator, offering the option for exterior mounted water and ice dispensers.
  • Standard with Bottom Freezer: Freezer is located at the bottom, making food easily accessible.
  • French Door with Bottom Freezer: Standard fridge with two doors and a bottom freezer, ideal for storing wide items.
  • Column Refrigerator: Built-in side-by-side freezer, often high-end like Sub-Zero, offering high accessibility and storage for wide items.
Different refrigerator options including side by side, standard with bottom freezer, French door with bottom freezer, and column refrigerator.

Selecting the ideal finish for your refrigerator can greatly enhance both its visual appeal and practical functionality. Panel finishes can provide a seamless look, aligning perfectly with your cabinetry. While more expensive, they offer a high-end, custom appearance that can significantly elevate your kitchen's overall design. On the other hand, a stainless finish offers an easy-to-clean surface that resists smudges and fingerprints and also adds a sleek, modern look to any kitchen.

Left: Stainless steel refrigerator offering a contemporary and durable finish, adding a sleek and professional look to any kitchen. Right: A panel-ready refrigerator designed to blend seamlessly with custom cabinetry, providing a cohesive and integrated kitchen design.

Kitchen Sinks and Faucets

When choosing a kitchen sink, consider various styles to match your needs and preferences. The sink is a daily-use fixture for everyone in the household, making its functionality and convenience paramount. Your family's cooking frequency, eating habits, and kitchen size may also impact the choice. Here's a quick guide to help you understand the options:

  • Single Sink: A single large basin, fitting better in smaller spaces and offering more room for washing large items.
  • Double Sink: Two basins separated by a divider, making it easier to wash dishes by hand.
  • Undermount Sink: Mounted under the counter, offering easier cleaning with no lip.
  • Apron Sink: Also known as farmhouse sinks, they hang over the cabinetry and provide a popular style with more visual impact.

Various sink options including single apron sink and double undermount sink.

Choosing your sink's material is more than just an aesthetic decision—it's a lifestyle choice. Are you looking for easy cleanup, modern features, or a classic look? Consider how each material aligns with your daily habits and overall kitchen design to find the perfect fit.

  • Stainless Steel: Durable and lightweight, pairs well with any design style.
  • Granite Composite: Extremely durable and scratch-resistant, with a wide selection of colors.
  • Fire Clay: Durable and easy to clean, with a farmhouse industrial look.
  • Cast Iron: Extremely durable and offers a classic look, though it can be heavier and prone to chipping.
Various sink materials including stainless steel, granite composite, fire clay, and cast iron.

Ready to start designing?

At Homebound, our design philosophy blends elegance with functionality, ensuring every kitchen we create is tailored to meet the needs and preferences of its occupants. By understanding the diverse options for fixtures and appliances, you can make informed decisions that enhance both the beauty and usability of your space.

Interested in a Homebound-designed kitchen? Explore our inventory and begin your journey to a stunning, functional and personalized home today.