When you're investing in a kitchen remodel, it's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of appliance choices. From ranges to refrigerators, the options are endless, and getting it wrong can impact both your daily routine and the overall value of your space.
At Custom Built, we understand how frustrating it can be to sort through specs, finishes, and features while also trying to create a kitchen that reflects your lifestyle. With over 15 years of remodeling experience, we guide homeowners through these decisions every day, helping them choose appliances that aren’t just beautiful, but practical and long-lasting.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the top 10 high-end appliances to consider for your kitchen remodel, explaining what makes each one worth the investment and how to decide what’s right for you:
- Built-In Refrigerator
- Dual-Fuel Range
- Wall Oven
- Steam Oven
- Induction Cooktop
- High-Capacity Range Hood
- Panel-Ready Dishwasher
- Undercounter Wine or Beverage Cooler
- French Door Refrigerator with Quad Zones
- Built-In Coffee System
1. Built-In Refrigerator
PC: Sub-Zero
Best For:
Seamless integration and superior food preservation.
Why Homeowners Love It
Built-in refrigerators like Sub-Zero or Thermador sit flush with your cabinetry for a clean, modern look without sacrificing capacity. These units often feature dual compressors and air purification systems that keep produce fresher longer. Think crisp lettuce after three weeks instead of three days.
What to Know
These fridges are designed for permanence. If you ever need to replace one, the new unit must match the same dimensions. Custom panel-ready models are available to match cabinetry, offering a truly elevated aesthetic.
Design Tip
Think about where this appliance sits in your kitchen triangle. You’ll want it close to your prep and sink zones for maximum efficiency.
2. Dual-Fuel Range
PC: Thermador
Best For
Home chefs who want precision on the stove and consistency in the oven.
Why Homeowners Love It
These ranges combine the instant heat control of a gas or induction cooktop with the even temperature of an electric oven. This makes them perfect for baking, roasting, or hosting large gatherings.
What to Know
Models range from streamlined stainless to professional-grade showpieces with bold finishes and colored knobs. Induction cooktops offer even more precise temperature control with faster heating and safer surfaces.
Pro Tip
Match your cooking habits with the right configuration. A six-burner cooktop may be overkill unless you routinely prepare large or complex meals.
3. Wall Oven
PC: Maytag
Best For
Accessibility, double-oven capacity, and clean design.
Why Homeowners Love It
A wall oven gives you flexibility in placement and height, which means no more bending over to check on dinner. Many models now feature smart cooking modes, steam settings, and even voice controls.
What to Know
Double wall ovens are great for busy families or holiday hosts. If you’re short on space, consider a single wall oven paired with a microwave or steam oven for a multifunctional setup.
Design Tip
Install near a landing zone (counter space) to safely place hot trays. Avoid placing it in the center of a kitchen run, where it might interrupt workflow.
4. Steam Oven
PC: Thermador
Best For
Health-conscious cooks and anyone seeking restaurant-level results.
Why Homeowners Love It
These compact powerhouses combine steam, convection, and smart tech to cook food evenly while preserving moisture and nutrients. They’re especially great for vegetables, seafood, and reheating leftovers.
What to Know
Often paired with a vacuum seal drawer underneath, this duo lets you prep, marinate, and cook sous-vide style at home. Meals can stay at serving temperature without drying out.
Bonus Tip
The small footprint makes it easy to add even in modest kitchens. Think of it as a smart microwave replacement, but far more capable.
5. Induction Cooktop
Best For
Families, design-forward kitchens, and fast, responsive cooking.
Why Homeowners Love It
Induction cooktops heat your cookware directly using magnetic energy. That means instant heat, cool-to-the-touch surfaces, and unmatched energy efficiency.
What to Know
Induction requires compatible cookware (think magnetic bases like stainless steel or cast iron), but once you’ve experienced the speed and safety, you may never go back.
Design Tip
With no open flame or hot coils, induction opens the door to unique kitchen layouts and design-forward cook spaces.
6. High-Capacity Range Hood
Best For
Serious cooks or open-concept kitchens that demand good ventilation.
Why Homeowners Love It
A powerful range hood whisks away smoke, grease, and cooking odors quickly. This is critical if you stir-fry, sear, or use high-heat oils.
What to Know
High-CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute) hoods may require additional HVAC work to meet building code or maintain air pressure balance. Adjustable blower speeds (ACT [Airflow Control Technology] systems) can help tailor power to your needs without overcomplicating the install.
Pro Tip
Hoods can also be a design focal point. Choose one that complements your cabinetry and appliance finishes.
7. Panel-Ready Dishwasher
PC: Dura Supreme
Best For
Minimalist or custom cabinetry-focused kitchens.
Why Homeowners Love It
A panel-ready dishwasher disappears into your kitchen cabinetry. This keeps the look clean and seamless.
What to Know
These are typically found only in higher-end appliance lines and require a custom cabinet front to match. They don’t affect performance but enhance the cohesive feel of your design.
Design Tip
Be sure your cabinetry order includes a matching panel. Your remodeling team can ensure it’s built and installed to spec.
8. Undercounter Wine or Beverage Cooler
PC: KitchenAid
Best For
Entertaining and freeing up fridge space.
Why Homeowners Love It
Wine and beverage coolers offer temperature-controlled storage for your favorite drinks, keeping your main fridge organized and your kitchen traffic flowing better.
What to Know
They’re perfect for secondary spaces like bar areas, pantries, or even outdoor kitchens. Options include glass doors, panel-ready fronts, and dual-zone compartments for reds and whites.
Design Tip
Go full-height for serious collectors or install drawers in kitchen islands for grab-and-go convenience.
9. French Door Refrigerator with Quad Zones
PC: Café Appliances
Best For
Flexible families with changing needs.
Why Homeowners Love It
These refrigerators are highly versatile. Some models allow you to convert sections from fridge to freezer (and back) based on seasonal needs or party prep.
What to Know
GE Café and other high-end lines offer stunning finishes like matte glass and handle-less designs. These refrigerators offer smart storage, organization drawers, and great lighting.
Pro Tip
If you love entertaining or meal prepping, flexible storage zones are a game-changer.
10. Built-In Coffee System
PC: Miele
Best For
Coffee lovers looking for convenience and consistency.
Why Homeowners Love It
With a built-in coffee system, you can create café-style drinks at home with just a few taps. No refilling water tanks or juggling countertop machines.
What to Know
These systems require plumbing and cabinetry planning, so be sure to talk with your design team early. Brands like Miele and Wolf offer impressive options with grinders and milk systems built in.
Design Tip
Pair with a breakfast station or appliance garage for a stress-free morning routine.
Next Steps to Remodeling Your Kitchen
High-end kitchen appliances aren’t just about luxury; they’re about enhancing how you live, cook, and connect in your space.
From built-in refrigerators to steam ovens and induction cooktops, the right choices can improve both functionality and enjoyment.
At Custom Built, we help you navigate these decisions with expert guidance and a process built around your lifestyle.
Ready to start planning your dream kitchen? Connect with a Project Development Advisor to explore what’s possible.
Now that you know more about the top 10 high-end appliances for your kitchen remodel, let’s explore design ideas you can include in your project, how much your project will cost, and how long it’ll take to finish with Custom Built:
- 10 Features Every Luxury Kitchen Remodel Should Have - Discover trending appliances and design choices you should include in your project.
- How Much Does a Luxury Kitchen Remodel Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - Explore cost estimates, a budget breakdown, and factors that affect the cost of your luxury kitchen remodel.
- How Long Does a Luxury Kitchen Remodel Take to Get Finished with Custom Built? - A high-level overview of how long your project will take to complete during Custom Built’s Proven Process.
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