When you’re buying a new luxury home, kitchens can be a significant part of the decision-making process. According to a recent report by the National Association of Home Builders, modern homeowners are looking for high quality, attractive kitchen components such as flooring, countertops and cabinets. When it comes to kitchen appliances, quality and brand name are the features that buyers desire most.
At Camelot, we understand that a beautifully designed, multi-functional kitchen is essential for today’s luxury homeowner. Energy efficiency and durability are also important. That’s why the homes in our luxury communities include ENERGY STAR® appliances from the top manufacturers of gas ranges, dishwashers and refrigerators.
Today, we’re looking at major trends in kitchen appliances. We caught up with flooring and appliance specialist Brenda Leonard of the Arizona Wholesale Supply Scottsdale showroom to find out which brands are hot right now, and learn more about the tech-savvy features homeowners can expect in the future.
What’s in a Name?
“We still get the most requests for Wolf and Sub-Zero in the luxury brands,” says Leonard. “They are the only luxury brand left that is family-owned and made in America.” The company has a manufacturing plant in Goodyear, a showroom in Scottsdale and an additional facility for repairs and parts in Phoenix. Many Camelot homes incorporate these top-name appliances; for example, our new builds at White Horse in Scottsdale feature built-in Sub-Zero 48” refrigerators and Wolf gas cooktops. These state-of-the-art kitchens are also equipped with Wolf double ovens and microwave drawers.
Hidden in Plain Sight
Camouflaged appliances are on the rise. Rather than focusing on fancy, decorative finishes, manufacturers are looking for creative ways to minimize the obtrusiveness of an appliance. “The latest style is a flush or integrated install,” says Leonard. “We are even seeing [appliances with] no handles.” For example, one Wolf oven model pushes to open, while a new Miele dishwasher requires just a simple knock. Microwaves are hidden in drawers, or appliances fully disguised to blend in with the surrounding cabinets.
The Kitchen of the Future
Handle-free dishwashers, wine storage and clear icemakers are just the tip of the iceberg. What’s next for kitchen appliance design? A full integration with Smart technology. “Refrigerators with cameras inside. Connected appliances that you can turn on or check the status through Alexa or your phone,” Leonard says. These “smart fridges” have apps that homeowners can install on their phones. By connecting to the camera via your phone, you could be at the grocery store and literally see what you need. Homeowners could toss the grocery list altogether, or get a visual reminder of items they might’ve forgotten. Such technology already exists, but it hasn’t gone mainstream yet.
What’s Cooking
No matter what kitchen upgrade options the future holds, quality and functionality will always be top priorities for homeowners. After all, the kitchen isn’t just a place to microwave dinner. It’s where the holiday turkey is roasted and reindeer-shaped sugar cookies are baked.
With regards to kitchen appliances, you just can’t beat a well-known, respected and durable brand, says Leonard. “Camelot buyers ask for Wolf and Sub-Zero even in their homes where it is not standard.”
For more information on appliance options in our Camelot luxury homes, call 480-367-4300 or visit our website.
