Tech in the Kitchen: Designing the Future of Culinary Spaces

Technology has permeated every aspect of our lives, transforming the way we communicate, work, and even cook. The once humble kitchen has evolved into a playground for innovation and creativity, where cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing the way we prepare and enjoy our meals. From smart appliances to advanced cooking techniques, the marriage of technology and culinary artistry has unlocked a whole new world of possibilities. In this blog post, we will consider "Technology in the Kitchen" and explore how it is reshaping the way we approach cooking, communication, and interior design.

Smart Appliances for Smarter Cooking

Gone are the days when a stove and a refrigerator were the primary tools of a kitchen. Today, we are witnessing the rise of intelligent appliances that not only simplify our culinary endeavors but also enhance our cooking experience. From smart refrigerators that keep track of our inventory and suggest recipes based on available ingredients to Wi-Fi-enabled ovens that can be controlled remotely, technology has taken kitchen appliances to the next level. Imagine preheating your oven while still at work or receiving alerts when your food is cooked to perfection—all thanks to the power of connectivity and smart technology. Here are the five most popular tech features in appliances:

Precision Cooking: Elevating everyday chefs

In the pursuit of culinary excellence, precision cooking techniques have taken center stage, aided by the advancements in technology. From induction cooktops that offer precise temperature control to convection ovens with advanced airflow systems for even baking, the modern kitchen is equipped with an arsenal of tools that enable home cooks to achieve remarkable results. Furthermore, innovative devices like combination ovens, which combine the functionalities of steam, microwave, and convection cooking, have become more accessible, allowing culinary enthusiasts to effortlessly create dishes with unparalleled textures and flavors. With technology as their ally, aspiring chefs can explore a myriad of cooking techniques, including low-temperature cooking, pressure cooking, sous vide, and air frying, all of which elevate the art of cooking to astonishing new heights.

Click here to see more of this colorful kitchen.

The rise of smart kitchen gadgets

In addition to smart appliances, an array of innovative gadgets has emerged, transforming the traditional kitchen into a high-tech haven. From smart scales that accurately measure ingredients to intelligent coffee makers that can be programmed to have your brew ready when you wake up, these gadgets bring convenience and efficiency to the culinary process. Furthermore, voice-controlled digital assistants have found their way into the kitchen, allowing us to access recipes, set timers, and even order groceries with a simple voice command. These advancements not only streamline our cooking routines but also inspire creativity and experimentation in the kitchen.

Enhanced connectivity and recipe sharing

Technology has also fostered a sense of community and collaboration within the culinary world. Online platforms and recipe-sharing apps have become a treasure trove of culinary inspiration, enabling home cooks to discover and explore a multitude of recipes from around the globe. With just a few taps, you can access detailed cooking instructions, helpful videos, and user reviews, empowering even the most novice cooks to expand their culinary repertoire. Additionally, social media platforms have become hubs for food enthusiasts, encouraging the exchange of ideas, techniques, and beautiful food photography.

Blending Technology with Classic Design

Technology has become a driving force in kitchen design, transforming both the aesthetics and functionality of modern culinary spaces. Although modern appliances have mastered looking sleek, it’s still easy to find classic and vintage style fixtures and appliances that boast modern tech features. Advanced materials and finishes, such as brushed metals and matte textures offer a new contemporary look that’s also fingerprint free. Touch-sensitive faucets provide effortless control for messy chefs. LED lighting systems offer sleek and efficient lighting details. Furthermore, innovative storage solutions with charging stations, lighting, and smart organization systems maximize space and efficiency. So, what’s our favorite kitchen tech?

At Airy Kitchens, our interior designers and project managers stay educated on all the latest kitchen technological advances. We regularly host product representatives, visit trade shows, and pursue continuing education so our entire staff can understand how to design, purchase, instal, and maintain new products for our clients. We believe that tech advances that keep you and your family safe, healthy, and happy are worth the cost and time to engineer. Thinking of building a tech-savvy kitchen? Visit our Contact Page to start your design.

9 of the Best Kitchen Cabinet Organizers, According to Pros

Planning a kitchen remodel and considering cabinetry organizers? We interviewed professional organizer Jasmine Pruitt to find out which organizers are the most useful, where to locate them in the kitchen, and how to keep your organizers organized for years to come.

Jasmine enjoyed speaking with Philadelphia interior designer Sean Lewis about his take on organizers too. Sean leads the design team at Airy Kitchens, so he understands the pricing of organizers, which products are popular with homeowners, and the value organizers will bring to any kitchen renovation. Lets start with the basics:

Utensil Divider

Sure, this is a given for your silverware. Maybe add a second one for fine silver. What else can be done with these?

JP: Think of other small things in your kitchen that could fit there. Maybe your wine opener or baking supplies. This could even be helpful for a crafting drawer or cleaning up a junk drawer.

SL: Utensil dividers are inexpensive and removable. If you think you may find other uses for them, get a few. Standard dividers are 2.5” wide. With custom cabinets we offer dividers in custom sizes and configurations. We even offer luxury wood species and felt lined for the real silver.

Tray Dividers

These are great for keeping baking sheets and cutting boards divided. They can also be used for separating platters. Any other ideas for tray dividers?

JP: Think of these as a framework for anything unruly. I use these to organize water bottles! They won’t fall over and you can quick grab and go. Tray dividers can keep tote bags, mail, even your laptop safe and out of the way.

SL: Tray dividers are inexpensive, but typically a permanent decision. We always try to locate some near the oven for cookie trays, but they can go almost anywhere. Above wall ovens and refrigerators are popular spots.

Spice Storage

The options here are diverse and people seem divided. So consider your preference before you commit to a placement. Spice drawer, spice shelves, lazy Susan, and pull out shelves (below) are all good options. What is your favorite?

JP: I love a good pullout drawer organizer. They’re streamlined and look cohesive. Some cooks have so many spices that they’re not going to be easily organized in one place though. Consider keeping some in a drawer close to the prep area and put the less utilized spices in the pantry on a lazy Susan.

SL: Spice drawers and shelves are inexpensive. We love the look of keeping spices out and visible, but most of our clients want them hidden away. The spice drawer is the most popular option, but people like the adjustable pull out shelves too.

Pull-out Organizers

These are a newer creation rarely seen in vintage kitchens. They utilize narrow spaces and offer adjustability to offer flexible storage. How do we keep them organized for everyday use?

JP: The utensil organizer, this is my party place. People who entertain can keep disposable utensils, paper plates, napkins and straws organized and easy to access. You can even pull out the whole metal bin and put supplies out when they’re needed. For the adjustable shelf organizer, it’s a great spot for a kids area. Kid cups, utensils, plates, or even baby bottles could live in these.

SL: These pull outs are mid-range in price, but offer a lot of storage for otherwise underused areas. I would say that makes them valuable. If you have a small kitchen that’s short on drawer space, the utensil organizer is a great place to fit your cooking utensils.

Pull-out Trash Drawers

No one likes looking at a dirty, stinky trash can. Should everyone include a trash pull-out? Where should you locate a trash drawer?

JP: This is a staple that every kitchen should have. Hide the mess and hide the smell! I think keeping these near the sink makes sense because that’s where people automatically go looking for it.

SL: Trash drawers are mid price range, but I agree that they’re a necessity. All of our kitchens include them. People like to hide the trash and it’s a great way to keep pets out of the garbage. Speaking of pets, we’ve seen clients instal multiple trash pull-outs and store dog food or kitty litter in them, so there are other uses.

Peg Drawer

Homeowners have embraced deep drawers, and these pegs can keep them organized. What do you like to use these for?

JP: These are extremely useful for pots and pans, also for dishes, but another favorite use is Tupperware. Pegs can help you sort lids and separate different sizes of food containers.

SL: Peg drawers are inexpensive and removable. They work really well for holding large stacked sets in place. Think mixing bowls, colanders, or other bakeware. The flexibility here is nice if you buy new stuff or decide to rearrange.

Appliance Garage

A great way to hide away the small appliances you use daily. An open bottom allows you to pull out the toaster or blender with ease. Electrical connections mean never having to fumble with plugs. But how do we keep this garage clean?

JP: Aesthetically I love these and I understand the draw, but in the field I find that they can attract clutter. I recommend picking one or two uses for the cabinet. It’s not a catch all. It’s coffee or it’s baking. Also, consider adding some decorative art or family photos. If you are spending time here every day, make it beautiful.

SL: This is a higher cost organizer because you’re buying a specialty cabinet, not an insert. These are extremely popular, but they won’t fit in every kitchen. The payoff is large though. Everyone uses small appliances and most people don’t want to look at them. I love the idea of keeping the inside beautiful and uncluttered. That’s very on-brand for us.

Pantry Pull-outs

A big pantry is great, but deep pantry shelves can get cluttered, dark, and disorganized. Are pull outs always necessary?

JP: Yes. I swear by pull out drawers in a deep pantry. They keep your storage more organized, more accessible, and the food mess more contained. Pull out pantry drawers make it easy for kids to grab stuff and not make a mess.

SL: Pull out drawers and tall pull out organizers are mid to high price range. These options offer a lot of storage and functionality to your cabinets so they are valuable. Both options are popular and useful. Our standard cabinets offer xx” between drawers. Our custom cabinetry offers adjustability in height.

Paper Towel Organizer

Most families keep a roll of paper towel in the kitchen. Where does yours go?

JP: These I don’t mind keeping out. A holder under the cabinet or a pull-out near the sink are both great options.

SL: Paper towel pull-outs are typically a pricier organizer. There are a lot of moving parts here. A stationary holder mounted below a cabinet is very budget friendly though. I think a lot of people keep the paper towels in the pantry or under the sink. We don’t get a lot of requests for this organizer.

Any other tips on organizing your kitchen?

JP: Yes! I want to share a few of my favorite products to organize your kitchen. Keeping food in these stackable containers will fit more food in your pantry and make everything easy to find.

I love these nesting containers for leftovers. They are easy to clean and small to store.

For oils, food storage, and spices in the pantry I use these small lazy Susans. They make food easy to see and grab.

And for broom and mop storage I recommend this hanging broom organizer. It’s a great way to store these tall items in a basement stairwell or mudroom.

Thank you Jasmine for your insightful advice. Jasmine’s company, Organized by Jasmine offers organization services in Philadelphia, New York, Washington D.C. and everywhere in between. She works on all sized projects and specializes in creating systems that are easy and beautiful.

If you are interested in working with an Airy kitchens interior designer to create an organized kitchen for your family, fill out our contact form.

Induction Cooking vs. Natural Gas

Many of our customers want an eco friendly kitchen that is safe, efficient, and beautiful. When shopping for appliances we suggest they consider induction cooktops and ranges. Our Philadelphia kitchen designs are known for their historic charm, but when it comes to appliances we gravitate to newer technologies that are smarter, faster, and better for our environment. Does induction cooking perform better than gas? Is induction different than electric? In this post we will explain how induction cooking works, review the latest induction cooktop options, and find out if induction is the right choice for your kitchen.

How does induction cooking work?

While induction cooking technology has actually been around for several decades, it is only recently finding its way into American kitchen design. Induction is an electric based technology that heats using magnetic currents. These currents heat your cookware directly, unlike a gas stove that wastes a lot of heat with open flames. Older style electric cooktops heat a metal coil, which is slow to adjust. The magnetic currents of induction are fast to adjust and can be set at exact teperatures. In fact, when we tested our gas range vs. induction cooktop by boiling a pot of water, the induction was faster by four minutes!

This Thermador ‘Freedom’ cooktop senses pans and moves the heat source when you move the pan.

Will my pots and pans work with an induction range?

Try the magnet test. The best way to find out if your pots and pans will work is to use a small magnet. If it sticks to your pans you’re good to go. Cast iron, steel, and most stainless steel pans will work with induction. Aluminum, copper, and glass will not. Some aluminum and non-stick pans are made with a magnetic metal base so that they will work with induction. Look for an ‘induction ready’ label on any new purchases. Induction may cause a gentle shaking with pans, so heavy lids are best to stop rattling. Our favorite brands to use on the induction range are Le Cruset and All Clad.

Gas ranges create excess heat and need stronger ventilation. See more of this kitchen here.

Is induction cooking better for the environment?

For decades the natural gas industry has been promoting gas cooking for its ease of adjusting temperature and even cooking. No one likes to talk about the air pollution gas cooking causes inside your home and outside in the air we all breath. Induction cooking offers the same speed and even cooking surface, but removes the air pollution. Less energy is used, less time is spent cooking, and less ambient heat is created with induction. Because of this, induction cooktops require less powerful ventilation hoods - another energy saving component! 

Are Induction cooktops safer than gas or electric? Are they easier to clean?

Induction cooktops use magnetic currents that only heat the correct cookware. That means a burner that is left on will start to cool as soon as the pan is removed. Induction cooking is less likely to burn people, pets, and that plastic container you accidentally set on the range. Some people even put thin silicon pads down between the burner and pot to catch spills and splashes. Similar to electric cooktops, induction has a smooth glass top that is easy to clean and provides a sleek look. Quick temperature control means less boiling over and burning food. Our interior designers always consider cleanability when choosing kitchen appliances and induction cooktops are a favorite.

A Bosch induction range with electric oven.

What about electric ovens? Are they better than gas?

Most bakers agree that electric ovens are preferred for their even temperatures. Electric ovens can maintain an even heat while gas ovens have to turn on and off to keep a consistent temperature. That’s why many appliance manufacturers offer ‘dual fuel’ which means a gas range with an electric oven. Induction ranges have the same ovens as electric and dual fuel ranges.

This Gaggenau cooktop combines gas and induction burners.

What are the best induction cooktops?

Currently there are a lot of options and price ranges for induction cooking. At the top, brands like Wolf and Gaggenau offer fully induction units along with combined units that offer gas and induction. Our favorite cooktop is this Thermador that senses the pots you are using and creates a new burner anywhere on the unit, sized to fit the pot. That means you can move your pot around and the cooktop heats wherever you need it. Some less expensive brands include the Bosch induction range and Frigidare cooktops. When shopping, consider whether you’re comfortable using a touch screen to cook or if you prefer knobs to control heat.

What are the cons to induction cooking?

Most induction cooktops and ranges are more expensive than standard gas equivalents. If your home is already plumbed for gas, a new induction unit will need new dedicated wiring. Some pots and pans may not work with induction, so that could be an additional cost to factor. Visually, induction cooktops are sleek and simple, but some home owners want the vintage look of a gas stove. While most cooks get used to induction within a few days, there is a learning curve. Some people miss the glow of the open flame.

A sleek cooktop in a classic white kitchen.

Is induction the right choice for me?

It’s currently legal to use natural gas appliances in Philadelphia kitchens. However, more and more cities across the USA are banning them. If electric is your only option, then induction is far superior to typical electric ranges. In many Philadelphia row homes it can be difficult or impossible to vent hoods to the exterior. If good ventilation is not an option then induction is a good solution. Finally, some homeowners want the sleek look and easy cleanability of an electic cooktop. We recommend closing appliances based on ease of use, not just looks. Our interior design team loves to create simple classic kitchens with efficient and eco friendly appliances.

For more opinions on induction technology, we enjoyed these articles from the New York Times and Consumer Reports.

Replacing Windows During Your Kitchen Remodel

There are many important details that go into a kitchen remodel. You’re probably thinking about gorgeous new kitchen cabinets, luxurious counters, or colorful backsplash tile. However, another powerful interior design element that you may initially overlook is the humble window.

In a historical Philadelphia home replacing your windows can create an energy efficient update and transform your kitchen into a bright and airy space. This decision can feel overwhelming, as there are many different options today for new modern windows. You may be concerned about maintaining the architectural character of your older home and even wonder what the advantages are to replacing windows. Here we will take a look at several types of windows, review the qualities of each, and reflect on why we add, remove, or replace windows from an interior designer’s perspective.

Wood: Wood windows are authentic, classic, and can easily match your existing architecture. Wood windows are great for historical purists, but they are a pain to maintain. Most manufacturers are now focusing on clad-wood windows (see next item), but solid wood is still available. These windows are more environmentally friendly because wood is renewable, maintainable, and naturally insulated. This makes it an energy efficient option as well. Wood windows often come unfinished, but you can save work by purchasing them primed or painted in a few standard colors. Wood allows for complete personalization. It can be painted any color and species like mahogany and walnut can be stained for a rich look. Splurging on dense hardwoods will help with durability, but any wood window will need maintenance. We recommend Marvin and Kolbe brands for solid wood windows.

Pros:

-Can be painted or stained

-Eco friendly and energy efficient

-Long-lasting with proper maintenance

-Authentic character

Cons:

-Upkeep

-More expensive ($700-$2000 per window)

Hybrids or Clad-wood windows: Hybrid or Clad-Wood windows offer the benefits of wood on the inside but are covered on the exterior with a tough, low-maintenance jacket of aluminum or vinyl. The cladding makes the exterior durable and prevents rot. The interior wood frame can be stained or painted any color. The interior wood requires some upkeep, but this style is far easier to maintain than solid wood. We recommend Marvin, Kolbe, and Andersen for hybrid windows.

Pros:

-Interior can be painted

-Durable

-Energy efficient

Cons:

-Interior maintenance

-Difficult to customize

-More expensive than vinyl windows ($1,200-$2000 per window)

Vinyl:  Vinyl is a common material for replacement windows. Vinyl windows are made from tough, impact-resistant PolyVinyl Chloride (PVC), with hollow chambers inside to help them resist heat transfer and condensation. Vinyl windows don't require painting or finishing, but this may be a disadvantage if you want to paint it a unique color to match your design. The material doesn't fade or rot, but it will lose it’s luster over time and there’s no way to refresh the surface.  Customization is limited here. However, they are energy efficient and affordable. Because of their popularity, the quality of vinyl can vary.  We recommend Marvin, Andersen, or Sunrise Brands for high quality vinyl replacement windows.

Pros:

-Sturdy construction

-Energy Efficient

-Less Expensive ($500-$700 per window)

Cons:

-Difficult to customize

-Quality varies

-Negative environmental impact during construction

Aluminum:  Aluminum windows are typically found in commercial construction with a more modern and industrial look. For residential replacement windows they do make sense for large spans of glass and operable doors, specifically in contemporary homes. If you’re looking for mullions and ornamental details these are not for you. Aluminum windows are durable, corrosion-resistant, require little maintenance, and if properly cared for, will have a long lifespan. Aluminum conducts more heat transfer than vinyl or wood, creating energy loss from inside the home. You can paint aluminum windows with the proper preparation, although most manufacturers don’t recommend it. The strength of aluminum frames allows for larger glass panes, better views, and more light inside your home. We recommend finding a local commercial window installer for aluminum windows.

Pros:

-Durable and low maintenance

-Open and large frames

-Less expensive than wood or clad wood ($600-900 per window)

-Long lifespan

Cons:

-Difficult to paint

-Limited details

-Less energy efficient than wood or vinyl 

Steel Casement: Steel windows are extremely durable due to the material’s strength, making them resistant to weather, fire and decay.  They can have very slender lines and offer clean and unobstructed views.  Because of the historical origins of steel windows, they span many architectural styles and are a great option for traditional and modern homes.  Steel windows require minimal upkeep and maintenance. They are only available as custom units which makes them more expensive, but they can be built to fit any opening. Steel casement windows are not the most energy efficient window option. Newer versions can be built with insulated glazing panels and insulated frames to be more energy efficient than the vintage single pane style. You will need to find a local ironsmith who specializes in steel windows. We recommend IQ Radiant Glass in the Philadelphia area.

Pros:

-Durable

-Low maintenance

-Works well with different architectural styles

-Customizable

Cons:

-Expensive

-Less energy efficiency

-Heavy

The interior designers at Airy Kitchens always strive to preserve and reuse original windows, especially ones with architectural significance. However, we understand that function and energy efficiency will play a role in your decision to replace and we can help you find the best fit for your renovation. Older homes in Philadelphia and the main line often have low window sills and poorly located windows for contemporary kitchen designs. Our designers have lots of tricks to help your house look authentic and considered inside and out. Creating a functional layout and enhancing views, light, and air flow in your home are all considerations when designing a new kitchen. 

Are you considering a kitchen or bathroom remodel that involves replacing windows?