INTERIORS 41
OPEN TO SMART & SUSTAINABLE APPLIANCES
Phil Slater of Whirlpool UK looks at how sustainability drivers plus a trend for open plan living are being supported by innovation in modern appliances.
H
omebuyers seek the latest kitchen appliances and technology. With more households opting for
open-plan living, the days of a purely practical kitchen are becoming a thing of the past, as the boundaries between kitchens and living areas are increasingly blurred. The kitchen, more than ever, needs to be a fully adaptable environ- ment that is suitable for family life, entertaining and relaxing. The kitchen must offer the homeowner a functional space that is as easy to use as it is beauti- ful. High-performance appliances are therefore integral, to make everyday living, cooking and cleaning as stress- free as possible. The built-in appliance market has
grown in popularity over the last few years due to the open-plan living trend. Open-plan living has meant that kitchen design and appliances must flow seamlessly into the living area, which is easily attained with built-in appliances. Built-in appliances ensure stylish design,
superb functionality, and are available to kitchens of all shapes and sizes, with the possibility of horizontally or vertically stacked models. Black and stainless steel appliances currently dominate the colours that are featured in the kitchen. However, freestanding appliances also
continue to be popular for a number of reasons. A freestanding appliance allows the consumer to take it with them when they move home, it can be quickly and easily installed with minimal disruption, and can make a bold statement (such as a stunning fridge freezer) – which is currently a key trend in kitchen design. Housebuilders should offer a variety of freestanding and built-in appliances to customers, as every customer has differ- ent needs and preferred styles. Noise levels are important in any kitchen, especially where the kitchen is open to other spaces in the home, as consumers not only cook in kitchens but also socialise with family and friends. Appliances today are quieter than ever to
suit open-plan living arrangements, and to make life more pleasant.
SUSTAINABILITY Homeowners today demand appliances that are efficient and reduce energy and water consumption. Energy efficiency is a key trend in new homes, with consumers understanding that the cost of running kitchen appliances can significantly affect the cost of running their household. Amendments to Part G of the UK
Building Regulations state that the maximum allowable consumption of water in new dwellings is 125 litres per person per day. This regulation is a challenge as, according to the Environment Agency, the water consump- tion of the average person in the UK is 150 litres per day. This is a driving force for the trend of sustainable kitchen appliances with low water consumption. Many consumers are under the
impression that dishwashers use a lot of water and energy. However, dishwashers
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