The Architect’s Guide to Integrated vs. Freestanding Appliances
Our Austin Architects Outline the Pros and Cons of Integrated vs. Freestanding Appliances to Help You Make the Right Choice for Your Kitchen
One of the first decisions you’ll have to make when choosing appliances for your kitchen is whether you want integrated or freestanding appliances. Integrated appliances create a high-end, seamless look whereas freestanding appliances provide cost-effective practicality. To help you choose between the two, our Austin architects break down the differences and pros and cons in our guide to integrated vs. freestanding appliances.
What are Integrated Appliances?
Integrated appliances are not literally built into your cabinets but provide a seamless look as though they are built in. This is because the appliances fit exactly within the space without any forward protrusions. You can also add panel fronts to appliances. Many integrated appliances allow you to install a full-cabinet front or “panel” so the appliance looks completely integrated into the cabinets.
Unlike freestanding appliances available in various depths, integrated appliances are always 24 inches deep and sit entirely flush with standard cabinetry. Integrated refrigerators are typically 7 feet tall, approximately 12-24 inches tallerthan freestanding refrigerators, to make up for storage space lost due to the shallow depth. Like freestanding appliances, integrated appliances can be moved from one house to another.
What Types of Appliances Can Be Integrated?
Architects and designers often refer to a client’s refrigerator choice when discussing integrated vs. freestanding appliances because refrigerators are one of the most popular appliances to conceal. To completely conceal your refrigerator, select an integrated counter depth unit and add matching cabinet panels to the front. Dishwashers can also be concealed with panels, and appliances like dishwashers and ovens are always designed with counter-depth dimensions.
Popular Integrated Appliance Brands
Some of our favorite integrated appliance brands include:
Thermador - A classic choice for seamlessly integrated luxury appliances.
Sub-Zero - An excellent choice for chef-grade, integrated refrigerators.
BlueStar - A fun option for integrated appliances with customizable colors.
Pros and Cons of Integrated Appliances
Pros:
Sleek appearance
Customizable
Can match custom cabinets
Cons:
Shallow depth and loss of storage space
More expensive
Longer installation time
What are Freestanding Appliances?
Freestanding appliances stand on their own and have dimensions larger than the 24-inch depth of a regular cabinet. They offer flexibility and can be moved, repositioned with ease, and placed wherever there is space. Freestanding appliances can be paneled, but it’s harder to create a more seamless appearance. Typically, there will be a small gap between the appliance and cabinet or wall, and it will protrude past the counter’s depth.
Counter Depth vs. Standard Depth
Freestanding appliances are available in counter and standard depths. Like integrated appliances, freestanding, counter-depth refrigerators are deeper than 24 inches because the width of the door panel and handle typically protrude past the 24-inch-standard cabinet depth. They do provide a more built-in appearance than standard-depth refrigerators. Standard-depth refrigerators range from 24 to 38 inches deep, offering more cubic feet of storage but a less custom appearance.
What Types of Appliances are Typically Freestanding?
Most appliance types are available in freestanding designs, including refrigerators, ranges, microwaves, and small appliances.
Popular Freestanding Appliance Brands
Some of our favorite freestanding appliance brands include:
GE Cafe Series - An excellent choice for customizable, chef-grade appliances.
SMEG - A fun choice for retro-inspired appliances.
Samsung Bespoke - A trendy option for bold, customizable, color-blocked refrigerators.
Pros and Cons of Freestanding Appliances
Pros:
Less expensive
More flexibility
More storage space
Cons:
Less custom look
Bulkier appearance
Protrude past cabinetry
Architect's Tip
Decide whether you want integrated or freestanding appliances early in the design process so your architect and cabinet designer can properly draft cabinet drawings to accommodate your needs.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Integrated and Freestanding Appliances
When designing functional, open-concept kitchens, we help our clients decide whether integrated or freestanding appliances work better for their needs. The choice comes down to four main factors:
Storage
Standard-depth refrigerators typically offer more storage space than counter-depth and integrated refrigerators. For some families, storage space is everything. However, we find that many people don’t need as much refrigerated storage as they may initially think. For example, things tend to get lost in the back of a standard-depth refrigerator. Counter-depth fridges offer better views of your recipe ingredients so you know exactly what you have.
Function
If you have a small kitchen, every inch of space matters! Opting for integrated appliances can help give your kitchen a more open feel. Unlike freestanding appliances that protrude past the cabinets, integrated appliances sit flush, leaving walkways clear and open.
Cost
Integrated appliances tend to cost more than freestanding ones. If you love cooking, the investment is worth it. However, some clients may want to allocate their budget to other areas of their homes.
Style
Your appliance selection will affect the style of your kitchen and the overall feel of your home, especially for open-concept plans. Integrated options offer a sleek appearance and an opportunity to conceal your appliances completely. While freestanding appliances can’t be hidden, you can customize them with fun colors and bold design choices.
Get the most out of working with your architect. Ask questions, share your daily routine, and review inspiration images to determine the best appliance type for your space and lifestyle. If you need help choosing between integrated vs. freestanding appliances, reach out! Our Austin architects are happy to help.