Steam ovens are one of the latest high-end kitchen innovations that are becoming popular among home chefs. Dedicated steam ovens operate (as their name suggests) by cooking food with steam, which is produced from water stored in a reservoir in the heater of the appliance; used in restaurants for years, they are now becoming more common in residential new constructions and kitchen remodels. The water tank is usually removable, although there are models that allow a water hook-up. Cooks cite the speed and health benefits as the top reasons to dedicate kitchen space to a steam oven.

Sometimes the difference between “maybe?” and “I’ll take it!” on a new appliance is in the bells-and-whistles. High-tech features and little extras can make a difference when you are choosing between units, or brands. Interesting features that set basic models against higher-end models can become the deal-breakers.

There are few hotter debates among foodies and cooks than the question of what’s better, gas or electric cook tops. Everyone has a preference, but like any choice for your kitchen there are pros and cons. (See last week’s blog where we explore the question of built-in vs. free-standing appliances.) Of course some of us don’t have a choice—without a gas hookup, electric cook top it is. When you do have the option, there are things to consider. Gas stoves are often cited for their superior ability to heat solid foods such as meats, while electric cook tops receive praise and are considered better for boiling liquids as the result of a more even application of heat across the bottom of a pot. Safety is another consideration; gas hookups require professional installation and maintenance to ensure safety. Even electric cook tops can have safety concerns, for example a smooth electric cook top can be mistaken for a countertop surface and if there is no visual (i.e. light) indication that the heating element is on a burn can result. 

There are pros and cons to any decision you make during a remodeling project, and one of the biggest questions we hear is about the difference between built-in and free-standing appliances. Clients want to know what the major differences are, as well as the pluses and minuses that accompany their decision to install a built-in or a free-standing appliance. We want to dedicate a little time to exploring this issue, and helping you consider all of the factors that go into making this decision.