Appliance Ideas to Consider When Building a Custom Home

When building a custom home, choosing appliances involves more than selecting a refrigerator, range, and dishwasher. The right features and locations can make everyday routines easier, keep countertops clutter-free, and create spaces that fit your lifestyle.

At Buffum Homes, we encourage homeowners to think about how they plan to use their kitchen and other living spaces before finalizing their design. Here are a few appliance ideas worth considering.

Think Beyond the Standard Kitchen Layout

Appliance placement can make a big difference in how your kitchen functions. Instead of automatically placing a microwave above the range, consider a microwave drawer in the kitchen island, a built-in unit in the cabinetry, or a microwave tucked into the pantry.

If you prefer clean countertops, a walk-in pantry can also provide space for small appliances like toasters, air fryers, blenders, and stand mixers. Adding outlets and countertop space can turn your pantry into a convenient secondary workspace.

Create a Dedicated Coffee or Beverage Station

If coffee is part of your daily routine, consider adding a coffee bar with space for an espresso machine, coffee maker, mugs, and supplies. This could be incorporated into the kitchen, pantry, or dining area.

You might also consider adding a beverage refrigerator, wine cooler, or additional ice maker. These features can be especially useful in a basement bar, entertaining area, or near your main living space, allowing guests to grab drinks without crowding the kitchen.

Don’t Forget About Other Living Spaces

Appliance planning doesn’t have to stop in the kitchen. Depending on your lifestyle, you might consider:

• A mini refrigerator in the basement or recreation room.
• A chest freezer in a utility or storage area.
• A second dishwasher for a large kitchen or frequent entertaining.
• A warming drawer or double oven for preparing larger meals.
• An undercounter ice maker near a bar or entertaining space.

The best additions depend on how you plan to use your home and which features will provide the most everyday value.

Plan Ahead for Appliance Placement

Appliances affect more than just the appearance of a room. Their dimensions and installation requirements can influence cabinetry, electrical outlets, plumbing, ventilation, and available counter space.

Planning these details early helps ensure your appliances fit properly and function as intended. It also gives you the opportunity to incorporate features that may be more difficult or expensive to add later.

Build Around Your Lifestyle

Not every home needs every appliance upgrade. Think about your daily routines, cooking habits, storage needs, and how often you entertain. A dedicated coffee bar might be a priority for one family, while another may benefit more from additional refrigeration or a well-equipped pantry.

At Buffum Homes, we want your custom home to reflect the way you live. Taking time to consider appliance features and placement during the design process can help create a home that is both functional and personalized to your needs.