Who Knew There Were So Many Microwave Options?
June 19, 2012 at 4:37 PM
By Samantha Grose, JP&CO: A residential construction firm dedicated to delivering a personalized home at a remarkable pace through an enjoyable process.
The microwave is a staple of the American kitchen. But not all microwaves are built alike and microwave use seems to be a strong personal preference for clients. Some homeowners rarely use their microwave, while others rely heavily on them. Depending on the space in your kitchen, and your specific microwave usage, there are a number of different options. To help you weigh your options, I’ve compiled a list of our most common microwave choices.
The Microwave Drawer
Microwave drawers are relatively new to the market, and therefore are more expensive. However, these built-in microwaves are incredibly easy to use for adults and great if you want to tuck your microwave under the countertop. They're also especially practical for households with children who want a safe, child-height option for heating food.
GE Monogram Advantium / Oven Combo
The Monogram Advantium is a speedcooking oven that’s perfect for the option of heating a small oven when you’ve only got a small amount to cook. It uses halogen light to cook foods up to eight times faster than a conventional oven, with no preheating. We’ve installed these quick little ovens in combination with large, 48” Wolf ranges so that homeowners no longer have to fire up the big oven when they’re preparing something small, such as a batch of cookies.
The Monogram Advantium has microwave capabilities and works well as a built-in below the countertop. Unfortunately, it can run a little more expensive.
The Built-In
The oven wall column of this microwave is tidy—it keeps everything in one area, making cleanup easy. The appliance comes with a trim kit that gives it a clean look that ties in with the oven/warming drawer in this case.
Microwave Cubby
The cubby is definitely our most popular approach to microwave placements. We can use any microwave unit, which helps keep costs low. Most units also offer child locks, so they're safe even with little ones. This makes it more kid-friendly for older children—it’s easy to reach without the need for a chair or a stool. It is, however, required to have air space around most units, so they don’t look as built-in as other options. But since they're tucked away it's not typically noticeable.
Grose Samantha
Associate AIA, Allied ASID Designer for JP&CO.