New Home Appliances: A Design Priority

We often talk about kitchens, laundry rooms, and other important areas of the home. These rooms need special attention because they're often used in daily life. But when you sit back and think about why they're so popular, it's often because they're so functional. It's where we do all our household work. However, are we really doing the work? Not really; our home appliances take the brunt of responsibility. These machines are major purchases in any house and therefore should always be the first focus in any design decision.

A Decision in Every Room
When remodeling a room, household appliances should be a primary consideration. When designing new houses, they'll be the priority because you often plan around this equipment. Or in kitchens remodels, if you want to reface the cabinetry, everything will eventually follow suit, including the look of your contraptions; and if you want these new tools to fit into pre-existing areas, they better become a main concern. But these mechanized conveniences aren't just found in the kitchen. They are small technologies spread all over the house: TV's, water-heaters, gym equipment, can openers. These items, whether part of the construction or not, help add selling value to a house. However, as you remodel, always consider function over style. A new gadget may look cool, but if it's never used, what's the point? So think about lifestyle, kids, age, etc. before investing.

New Gadget Guidelines
As you research home appliances, here are five ideas to consider before buying:

Always Update
First rule in remodeling is to update your look. That means you'll have to get rid of that avocado refrigerator and try to buy a more modern design. But when you update for a pre-existing space, always make sure to measure, measure, measure. Over the years, home appliances have significantly changed in size. Fridges have gotten big, microwaves have gotten tiny. So make sure to get it right the first time. Also, built-in equipment can be a great space-saver, but you always want them to be flush with cabinets and counters. Hence, the old construction rule applies to anything: "Measure twice, cut once."

New Technologies
As you update, it's a good idea to research new products on the market. Industrial-sized washing machines and dryers save large families time and labor. Trash compactors are a unique feature. Or maybe buy a warming drawer: an area under the oven that keeps food warm while you continue to cook. But beware of getting seduced. Some modern conveniences quickly become fads and eventually date a home's remodel.

Seamless Symmetry
It's important that you have a seamless style in your décor. So when buying home appliances try to match their looks and finishes. Maybe buy the same brand names to ensure continuity. Plus, stay neutral in color: white always works and stainless steel never goes out of style. Or possibly make them invisible with a sub-zero fridge, wood paneled machines, or dishwashers that conceal their controls.

Conserve and Save
There are two costs in any purchase: the initial price and operation costs. You can't help the price tag, but you can save money in the long run if you buy energy efficient machines. So look for the ENERGY STAR label. These products are regulated by the government and use significantly less power. This not only cuts down on water and electricity bills (sometimes up to half), it conserves natural resources as well.

Repair Reminders
As you buy new equipment, remember to check out the warranties. They're just another form of investment and can help save you money. But be aware of the limitations in your service contract and follow their guidelines because any deviation may void it. Plus, when you bring the product home, immediately check out all applications as soon as possible: break-downs often occur in their first use. Also, request and keep receipts (even for free services) in order to track the history of repair for when your warranty expires.