Appliances - Built in VS Integrated

Although similar in their function of creating a more cohesive, sleek and custom fitted look, they are however, not the same. Lets take a look at the differences. Built in appliances are designed to be visible. You will always see them, however, they are usually quite attractive with stainless steel accents and tinted glass fronts. Some have stylish LED light features and colour accents.

Often appliances such as ovens, microwaves and coffee machines etc, do create some sort of focal point in the kitchen and do add a very contemporary look and feel to the environment. Appliances such as fridges, dish washers and washing machines are considered free standing, which means they are not secured or fitted to any of the cabinetry. What does this mean in terms of giving them a built in look?

Well, these appliances, for one usually always protrude past the counter space or side panels. We can make them look "built in" by creating sides and tops, however, there is always a gap between these sides and the appliances. Fridges for example now come in many different sizes and depths vary drastically, some as much as 900mm deep which means that they would stick past your cabinets by at least 300mm...that's a whole ruler length! Unfortunately, there is often very little that can be done to overcome this dilemma without adequate space.

Integrated appliances on the other hand are designed to blend in seamlessly with your kitchen and the finish you select. These appliances don't come with a fancy front, but rather, a bland, usually white front with holes for brackets to be mounted to. These bland doors are there so that your kitchen supplier can add the same finish as what is in your kitchen to your appliances.

Appliances that usually get integrated include more commonly, fridges, freezers and dish washers. Occasionally you are able to get integrated washing machines and tumble dryers as well.