Shopping Refrigerators
There are many different refrigerators on the market and even then, once you choose what brand there are still many different choices to make from there. I highly recommend you always consult with your kitchen designer prior to making any purchases. The fridge you choose can highly impact the design aesthetic, and can affect budget, Leadtime, etc. My favorite appliance brand that I always highly recommend is Subzero. So, I am going to use them as the example and then go onto more budget friendly options as I go. The refrigerator is probably the most questioned appliance I get from homeowners and interior design professionals.
Subzero Refrigerator Options
With Subzero Fridge you will be presented with three options: Classic Series, Designer Series, and Pro Series. Within each line there are choices to go with panel ready to match your cabinetry or stainless steel. Then from there you can choose which installation type is right for you.
Classic Series
I was surprised to learn that the Classic series actually does have more storage than the Designer series and is the most popular choice. Depending on how much room you have in your space your designer will let you know if flushed inset installation, or standard installation will work for you. Flushed inset installation does take up more room. Whether you are using framed or frameless cabinetry I highly recommend a flushed installation to give you a more seamless look even though you will still be able to see some stainless through the paneling. If you are doing stainless and standard installation your fridge will always sit proud of your cabinets. The classic series will always have the grill at top.
Designer Series
The Designer series is by far my most favorite because it allows you to make the appliance completely disappear and can also give you the ability to make it a focal point of the kitchen. The designer series is always panel ready and you will never see any stainless steel. It does hold a little less than the classic series, but I think it makes up for it in appearance and design flexibility. It will never have a grill so that allows you to align your cabinetry at whatever height you want. Do note that right now this series does have a longer lead-time usually.
Pro Series
In my 16 years of designing this is probably the least of the three I have specified for a kitchen. A bold, professional look available in two widths, crafted with stainless steel inside and out, and features unparalleled food preservation. This can also be flushed or standard installation. Whether it be framed or frameless cabinetry I prefer a flushed installation, so it doesn’t sit proud of the cabinetry.
Budget Friendly Options
The free-standing stainless refrigerator option is the most budget friendly and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. I always recommend that if you decide to go this route that you look for counter depth options like the one pictured above, so your fridge isn’t out way past your cabinetry. Most of these refrigerators need breathing room so you will see a space left, right, and above allowing it to properly vent.
