There is a wide range of equipment available for the modern kitchen, with something to suit most budgets. Both the performance and the visual appearance of the equipment should be taken into account when designing your kitchen, as well as how best to position the appliances for accessibility and aesthetic appeal.

Refrigerators

Refrigerators, once uniformly while, are now available in practically every color imaginable as well as a number of different styles. This means that you can choose either a built-in, fully concealed refrigerator or a free-standing unit that will suit everything from a 1950s retro kitchen to a 21st-century contemporary interior.

The positioning of your refrigerator is very important if you are to achieve a practical working environment. It is a good idea to avoid locating it too close to any heat source. Cookers, radiators, dishwashers and washing machines should not be placed next to a refrigerator, as the extra energy used to keep down the temperature in the refrigerator may lead to a shorter lifespan for your appliance.

Cookers

Ovens and hobs are also subject to the vagaries of fashion. There has been a recent return to favour for the traditional range cooker, which brings a nostalgic air to the family kitchen. Available in a wide range of colors, range cookers have both gas and electric ovens and a choice of halogen, ceramic, gas or electric hob. This style of cooking equipment is suitable mainly for larger kitchens.

The separate oven is also available in a wide range of styles. Double, eye-level ovens, with one of the ovens featuring an integral grill, is more versatile than a single oven. Low-level ovens are also available. These are particularly suitable when space is at a premium, as the hob can be positioned directly above the oven rather than taking up valuable worktop space.

Microwaves

The microwave is an excellent addition to the family kitchen. Many different models are available, some combining conventional ovens and grills with microwave faculties. If your microwave is likely to be used simply for defrosting frozen foods, warming liquids and reheating basics, a less expensive model will suffice. Some people use a microwave that has an integral grill as the main grill in the kitchen, especially if the alternative is positioned within a single oven.

As with most kitchen appliances, the microwave can easily be housed in a run of kitchen units, once again freeing up much needed work surface space.

Ventilation systems

Extractor hoods and fans will certainly help to make your kitchen a more pleasant environment. Wherever possible, position your cooker on an outside wall so that the extractor can work at maximum efficiency. Always ask the manufacturer at what height the extractor fan should be fitted: it varies from model to model, and depending on whether you have a gas or electric hob. A special ventilation system may be necessary if you choose a semi-professional cooker, due to its powerful output.

Dishwashers

The dishwasher is becoming more and more popular. While many may see it as an expensive and unnecessary appliance, it certainly helps to save a great deal of time and effort. Position the dishwasher where there is easy access to water and plumbing. It is also a good idea to locate the storage facilities for everyday crockery and cutlery near the dishwasher, to make unloading it an easier task.