Switched on

By Justine Olivier

Whichever way you look at it, appliances have assumed much control over our daily functions in the kitchen. It’s hard to image a time where microwaves, dishwashers, and coffee machines didn’t exist. With such reliance on appliances, whether small or large, the kitchen of today has become one of the most frequented and social areas of the home.

As the current market is saturated with a myriad of appliances, it may leave you bewildered as to which is the best option for your kitchen. Always keep in mind that the appliances of today are designed in such a way that they are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but they also save you precious time.

“Many of today’s state-of-the-art appliances boast a plethora of innovative technological features to make your life easier and to save you time,” explains Brennan Menday, of Miele SA. He further points out that home owners should keep in mind durability and quality, eco-friendly attributes, innovative technology, as well as the customisation and personalisation when purchasing any appliance. “Customisation and personalisation are sought-after by consumers all over the world – consumers are looking for appliances and kitchen designs that offer high-end function and convenience, and also offer the ability to do things to suit their particular, individual preferences,” he adds.

Isabel Russell, of Global Pact Distributors, also points out that having the right appliances make entertaining less stressful and more fun.

While you may have the basic appliances figured out (fridge, washing machine, dishwasher, kettle and coffee machine), why not indulge in a few luxury items that will not only improve your lifestyle but increase the productivity in your kitchen.

Seulhee Gu, of LG Electronics South Africa, says that food processors or blenders are a must, and so too are steamers, a good mixer, and not forgetting the crucial coffee or espresso machine. Seulhee further advises the top ten appliances that every home should have: a stove, an oven, a refrigerator (with energy-saving technology), a washing machine, a dryer, an eco-friendly dishwasher, a microwave, a good quality coffee machine, a wine fridge and an extractor fan – to ensure that smoke and odours are removed from the kitchen and filtered before it is released into the atmosphere.

The interesting thing with larger appliances nowadays is that they are becoming incorporated into the overall design and layout of the kitchen. Ovens, stoves, fridges and even dishwashers are hidden from sight through ingenious design, and are being placed behind cupboard doors, or are being concealed through the clever use of a pull over, which is made of the same material that is used for countertops. By doing this, with your stove, for example, you can now make this appliance disappear into the kitchen counter.

Whichever appliances you choose to equip your kitchen with, always ensure the energy-efficiency of each – this will not only cut down your electricity bill, but will reduce your carbon footprint on the environment as well, leaving you with peace of mind as you enjoy the luxury and quality of a 21st century appliance.