As a professional Interior Designer, one of the most important elements of a kitchen remodel is the efficient placement of appliances, ensuring they are both functional and seamlessly integrated into the overall design. A frequently debated choice is how to incorporate the microwave. Long gone are the days of an over the range microwave.
Two popular options: microwave drawers and built-in microwave, both offer distinct advantages, depending on your kitchen layout, style, and cooking habits. Let’s explore the differences between these options to help you decide which one is right for your kitchen.
Microwave Drawers: Sleek, Space-Saving, and User-Friendly
A microwave drawer is installed directly into lower cabinetry, typically in a kitchen island or under the countertop. Instead of a traditional swinging door, the drawer comes out for easy access to heat food from the top.
Key Benefits of Microwave Drawers:
Seamless Aesthetic:
Microwave drawers offer a sleek, streamlined look that blends beautifully with modern and transitional kitchens. By tucking the microwave into cabinetry, you free up counter space and eliminate the bulky appearance of traditional microwave units.
Ergonomic & Easy to Use:
Since the drawer is installed at waist or counter height, it’s easy to access without bending down or reaching up. This can be especially convenient when removing hot dishes or larger plates. The push-button drawer mechanism is a user-friendly feature, making it ideal for families with children or older adults.
Space Efficiency:
Microwave drawers are perfect for smaller kitchens where space is a premium. Installing the microwave under the counter or in an island leaves upper cabinetry available for storage, providing a clean and uncluttered look.
Considerations for Microwave Drawers:
Cost: Microwave drawers tend to be more expensive than built-ins or countertop models, both in terms of the appliance itself and installation costs.
Limited Features: While microwave drawers are convenient, they often lack the high-tech features found in some built-in models, such as convection cooking, steam or advanced defrost settings.
Built-In Microwaves: Flexible, Customizable, and Multi-Functional
A built-in microwave is typically installed within cabinetry or a wall unit at eye level, above a countertop, or even above a wall oven. These models are often built into appliance walls for a cohesive look and can feature a traditional side-swing door or a button to roll out depending on the height placement.
Key Benefits of Built-In Microwaves:
Customizable Placement:
Built-in microwaves offer flexibility in placement. Whether you prefer to keep the microwave off the countertop or mount it over a wall oven, there are many options to suit your kitchen layout. The eye-level installation means you won’t need to bend over to reach hot food.
Additional Features:
Many built-in microwaves come with advanced features, such as convection cooking, smart sensors, and multi-function capabilities. These appliances can often serve as a secondary oven, offering more versatility for cooking and baking.
Seamless Integration with Wall Ovens:
If you are designing a kitchen with a built-in appliance wall or column, a built-in microwave integrates perfectly above or alongside your wall oven. This creates a cohesive, professional look often seen in high-end kitchens.
Optimal for Contemporary or Modern Designs:
Built-in microwaves can blend well with more contemporary kitchen styles, where the goal is to incorporate modern conveniences without sacrificing clean design aesthetics. The appliance can be hidden behind custom cabinetry panels for a truly integrated appearance.
Considerations for Built-In Microwaves:
Space Requirements: Built-in microwaves typically require upper cabinet space, which may limit storage, especially in smaller kitchens. Planning the layout is crucial to ensure you don’t sacrifice valuable storage.
Ergonomics: Unlike microwave drawers, built-ins are often positioned at eye level, which can make it more challenging to handle hot or heavy dishes, especially if installed too high.
Which Option is Right for Your Kitchen?
When deciding between a microwave drawer and a built-in microwave, consider the following factors:
Kitchen Layout:
If you’re working with a small kitchen or an island-centric layout, a microwave drawer can save valuable upper cabinet space and contribute to a sleek, minimalist look. If you have the space for a built-in microwave and prefer to keep your appliances at eye level, a built-in option may be more suited to your needs.
Design Aesthetic:
For modern and contemporary kitchens, microwave drawers often enhance the seamless, clean-lined aesthetic that is so popular in open-plan homes. Built-ins, on the other hand, work well in traditional kitchens where a more classic integration of appliances is desired.
Functionality & Features:
If you frequently use your microwave for more than just reheating (e.g., for convection cooking or baking), a built-in microwave with advanced features might be the better choice. However, if ease of access and a simple, ergonomic design are your priorities, a microwave drawer could be the perfect fit.
Budget:
Built-in microwaves are typically less expensive than microwave drawers, both in terms of appliance cost and installation. If your budget allows for a bit of a splurge and you prioritize sleek design, a microwave drawer is worth considering.
Final Thoughts
Both microwave drawers and built-in microwaves have distinct advantages, depending on your kitchen’s design and your personal cooking needs. For those looking for sleek aesthetics and ease of use, a microwave drawer is an excellent choice. For homeowners wanting more cooking capabilities and flexibility, a built-in microwave may offer the best value. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your kitchen layout, lifestyle, and budget.
As you plan your kitchen remodel, consider how each option will function within your space and how it complements the overall design. Whichever option you choose, integrating your microwave thoughtfully can help streamline your kitchen’s flow and elevate both its form and function.
Need helping with your kitchen design or microwave selection? Feel free to reach out for a consultation!
Leave a Reply