We scoured the World Wide Web for the trends of 2017 and decided to do a series on them, including kitchen colors, styles, countertops, appliances, flooring, and sinks. This is the fourth installment; find the first, second, and third installments here.
Of course, most standard appliances aren’t going anywhere. It will be long before technology replaces the refrigerator, toaster, oven, and dishwasher, but that doesn’t mean they won’t evolve.
In fact, 2017 has seen a number of modifications…
2017 Kitchen Appliances Trends
Let us look at the kitchen appliance trends in 2017.
1. Concealed Appliances
Without question, interest in “camouflaged” appliances is at an all-time high and appears to be developing more with each passing year.
The days of small appliances cluttering up a counter are over. They now pull out from built-in enclosures, and it won’t be long before the larger appliances are cleverly hidden as well, only to be a source of genuine surprise when they are revealed.
It’s gotten to the point where you can’t go to any reasonably high-end establishment without seeing at least one appliance that is inconspicuously integrated into an otherwise nondescript spot.
2. Warming Drawer / Slow Cooker Combos
They are indisputably among the biggest things going right now. Warming drawers are the in–demand kitchen accessory and, sure enough, there is no shortage of competing models available to meet that demand.
Of particular interest are the slow cooker/warming drawer combos offered by some of the larger manufacturers. They, too, are emerging in popularity.
3. None More Black
For years, it seemed that we had only white or stainless steel options for nearly all kitchen appliances.
What started as a line of black stainless steel appliances in 2015 (by KitchenAid) has since expanded to offer a wider selection that includes refrigerators, icemakers, dishwashers, and beverage centers.
Not to be outdone, GE has got into the action, this year introducing single and double wall ovens, hoods and dishwashers with plans to add to the line throughout the year.
4. Convection Ovens
Convection ovens are in greater use than ever, from small kitchens to those of gourmet grandeur. Their additional air circulation makes them a must-have; they warm food quickly and evenly. Using a convection oven over a conventional one may allow you to cook up to 25% faster.
5. Microwave Drawers
It’s unprecedented, really. The amount of acceptance and success the introduction of the hidden microwave drawer has experienced is in line with the popularity of other appliance “camouflage”.
Reports indicate that microwave drawers are on their way to overtake countertop or built-in models in popularity. In fact, they are most chosen for current kitchen remodels and new homes.
6. Steam Ovens
The rise in the popularity of locally grown organic vegetables and produce can be credited with the boost in the popularity of the steam oven.
It doesn’t command a large market share, but there’s no denying its expanding appeal.
A growing number of homeowners prefer to prepare their own rice, steamed vegetables, fish, and other dishes.
Most kitchens will also feature a conventional oven, and even health nuts like some things crispy!
7. Wine Refrigerators
For those who can’t afford a wine cellar, or for others who can but just want a selection available near the center of the upstairs action, a wine refrigerator is all the rage.
It seems that wine is more trendy than ever, and these refrigerators reflect what has become a storage option for what has also become a collectible hobby.
8. Pizza Ovens
Right!! Now we’re getting to the good stuff. They’re fast—they can cook a frozen or fresh pizza in less than 5 minutes—and designed to produce optimal crusts.
Of course, they’re not limited to pizzas – frozen snacks, baked goods, and more will be perfectly cooked. A countertop model can accommodate up to a 12″ pie and features specific functions for cooking thin, deep, or rising crust pizzas.
9. Smart Appliances
2017 has introduced many technical innovations into the kitchen, like an oven that texts you to let you know that dinner is ready. Its capabilities don’t end there; it can even tweet.
And it will communicate in other ways.
Beyond 2017, smart homes are expected to experience a revolution. But the day your home starts talking and even gets annoying, don’t ever openly conspire to unplug it – even in whispers.
The last thing you want to hear is, “You were planning to disconnect me, and I’m afraid that’s something I cannot allow to happen…”
