Where’s the fridge?!
Gone are the days that a basic stainless steel refrigerator would suffice. Modern progression in design has transformed these steel boxes into works of art.
For aesthetics, “panel-ready” or “integrated” refrigerators are all the rage. High-end brands like Sub-Zero and KitchenAid are now offering counter-depth refrigerators that are compatible with cabinet fronts, allowing your refrigerator to blend seamlessly into your cabinetry. But what exactly is the difference between built-in, panel-ready, and integrated refrigerators? We break it down for you…
Built-In
A built-in refrigerator generally refers to a fridge that is counter-depth (measuring between 23″ and 27″ deep), as opposed to a standard-depth refrigerator (which measures between 30″ and 34″ deep), and may have some customization options available (see panel-ready below). There is a substantial price jump from a free-standing, standard-depth fridge ($1,300+) to a counter-depth fridge ($8,000+) for the high-end brands like Viking, Miele, and SubZero.
Panel-Ready
Panel-ready is the first level of customization. You’ll still see the hinges and seams around the unit, and possibly venting at the floor, as seen in the kitchen below.
Integrated
A fully-integrated refrigerator is when the fridge blends seamlessly into your cabinetry, as seen in the kitchen below. In this case, the fridge, which is actually the to left of the stove, is mirrored by cabinetry to the right. For this route, you’ll likely work with an interior designer who will foster the communication between the refrigerator manufacturer and your cabinet maker. While this option is undoubtedly gorgeous, it comes with a hefty price tag ($15,000+!).
Besides price, another possible drawback is that the fridge can actually be hard to find. Your guests may constantly be opening cabinets, attempting to find the fridge…but it’s a small price to pay for this level of customization, right?! With this option, your choice of finishes is limitless. White shiplap as seen above, or a natural wood as seen below.
Within each of these categories, you’ll have to decide on the configuration that best suits your family’s needs.
Keep in mind, the counter-depth refrigerators offer less cubic square feet of storage space, so you will end up needing a wider fridge to accommodate the same amount of groceries as a standard-depth fridge. So you may end up placing two “column” fridges side-by-side, with the handles positioned in the center.
Each manufacturer uses their own verbiage, so what one calls integrated may be referred to as panel-ready. Under-counter refrigeration systems are another concealed option, while smart refrigerators are at the opposite end of the spectrum as far as visibility. See our Smart Home Technology blog for more insight into the world of computerized refrigerators.
This info is bonus content from our Hosting Must-Haves article which appeared in the Fall/Winter 2018 Issue of NEST Magazine. To view the full issue, click here.
Photo Credit: Aaron Huber, iAlicante Mediterranean Homes, SubZero, KitchenAid, McGee & Co.