The Rest of the Crew: New Appliances Part II
After selecting our prized range I moved on to find the rest of the appliances. As mentioned in the last post I changed my stance on mixing and matching appliances in a kitchen. To be brief about it, I now think appliances should be purchased from the same manufacturer (and probably even the same line) with the same finish UNLESS you choose to upgrade a specific appliance to a line (or even a different manufacturer) that is known for its quality. For example, if we could have afforded it I would have jumped on getting a Viking or Wolf range, or a Viking refrigerator, but the budget wasn’t quite that malleable! If you love it and you can afford it, then get it! I definitely feel like making this kind of a selection only positively impacts your final kitchen renovation.
You can even select different colored appliances if it fits the design of your kitchen and you don’t fear possible resale issues (some potential buyers can be very close-minded!) Now, when I say different colors I don’t mean get a stainless steel refrigerator and all the other appliances in black. I’m talking bold color! For example, the range we ordered comes in red. It’s actually very cool looking and would look amazing, almost like it’s a piece of decoration, in a kitchen where red fits the color scheme and design.
That being said I still think that if you’re going with “basic” appliances that you should try to stick with a single line or at the very least, a single brand. I wouldn’t select a Whirlpool refrigerator, GE dishwasher and Fridgidaire range to go in one kitchen. I would most likely stick with one set of appliances that suits the value (and potential value) of the house as well as my budget.
To sum it up, having one or two higher end/specialty appliances, or one of a striking color to go with the decor, can actually make an amazing statement! And in case I haven’t made it clear enough, this is all just my opinion!
Ok, that’s enough opinion talk, let’s rewind to the previous post where I mentioned that I preferred to have all of my other appliances coordinate with our new, and “different,” range. I did some research on appliances hoping to find a set with good reviews and that had the more squared-off, streamline profile similar to the range. After initial comparisons I had it narrowed down to Jenn Air, Bosch 500 & 800 Series and GE Monogram. In the end the Bosch 500 Series won!
We’ve kept them protected by their plastic and cardboard and, much like with the cabinets, only removed enough to make sure they were what we ordered and wanted…and to gawk at them a little of course!
So far all aspects of the kitchen have turned out just as I’d hoped, if not better! I’m getting anxious to see it all come together!
