Are integrated appliances still on trend? Interior designers share their do's and don'ts of designing around appliances

Over the years, kitchen design has favored appliances hidden away behind cabinetry doors, but are integrated appliances still on trend, or is there a budding revival of spaces that allow features like fridges, ovens, and microwaves to be on show?

Kitchens come in all different shapes and sizes, but no matter the style of your space, choosing whether or not to integrate your appliances will greatly impact the finished look.

So, what is the better choice? To discover whether or not you should opt for integrated appliances, we've asked interior designers and kitchen experts to weigh in on the current appliance trends to help you decide how to design your space.

Are integrated appliances still on trend?

Integrated appliances have reigned supreme in kitchen trends over the last few years, introducing cohesion and a seamless finish to kitchen schemes. But this year, as people endeavor to add unique appeal to their spaces, are we seeing the return of exposed appliances?

'Using integrated appliances can be on trend depending on the overall aesthetic of the kitchen. I can still see value in ultra contemporary or traditional spaces where clients don't want to detract from the millwork or sleek cabinetry,' says Susan Sutter, of Susan Sutter Interiors.

If you're designing a small kitchen, integrated appliances can create a seamless look that gives the illusion of more space. It's still a favorable choice if symmetry is key to your design.

'In our designs, we strive for function first and then look at how it affects the aesthetics and symmetry, so if adding a cabinet panel helps to please the eye and bring symmetry with a line of cabinets otherwise dotted with multiple appliances of different shapes, sizes, and finishes it might be worthwhile,' says Susan.

Your kitchen style will certainly have an impact on whether you choose integrated appliances or not. If you intend to create a kitchen that is unique and full of character and color, leaving your appliances on show can work really well, especially if you opt for statement designs.

'In some more transitional kitchens, owners want to highlight the fun colors and finishes available now for appliances or cool hardware where they should be the star in the space,' Susan adds.

Opting for appliances in bold colors is also a great way to add character to a kitchen that has none, particularly if you're not keen to rip out the whole space and replace it with something new.

'A kitchen remodel is a huge investment and homeowners are looking to spark joy with a custom color stove, a retro-style refrigerator, or appliances with a unique finish or handle pattern,' says Jessica Petrino, educator & appliance expert at AJ Madison.

The move towards colorful and more tasteful appliance designs is aiding this renewed appreciation for allowing them to be on show. 'It’s perfectly acceptable for appliances to be visible in the kitchen design. There are so many options available for appliance color, finish, and style,' she adds.

As well as having visual appeal, straying away from integrated appliances has a lot of practical benefits, too. 'Let’s normalize exposed appliances as an approachable, cost effective, and stress-free choice. In my experience, many consumers consider a mix of panel-ready products and statement appliances. Clients need to consider their unique kitchen specifications, sight lines, and flow of the home,' says Jessica.

If you're stuck on whether or not to integrate your appliances, consider your interior design style and the size or layout of your kitchen to assess which style is better suited to your space and the way you use it.

Jessica notes that in an open-plan kitchen/living area, integrated appliances might be better aesthetically. 'Concealing the refrigerator and dishwasher is a welcome design choice. Panel-ready appliances can make the kitchen cabinets appear more like furniture.'

Alternatively, if you're embracing eclectic style or you're considering budget in your design decisions, feel assured exposed appliances can aid an eye-catching and stylish kitchen design just as much as integrated appliances can.

While the trend for integrated appliances isn't going anywhere and will always have a place in kitchen design, this revived appreciation for exposed appliances encourages the creation of unique spaces, and adds versatility in the way we design our spaces.