Smart Kitchens

To meet a homeowner's desire for a “kitchen that really cooks,” designer Hazel Reed Zeller filled the room with conveniently-placed appliances and fixtures. From the wall-mounted Miele cappucino maker and computer-controlled lighting to the three sinks and two sets of refrigerator drawers, the gourmet cook’s every need is anticipated and met.

Clean Machines

Two fully integrated Asko dishwashers seem to disappear into the cabinetry. A unit next to the sink was installed at a height of 42”, a remarkably smart design move that allows the cook to load the dishwasher without having to bend over. The added height of the dishwasher and counter also allows the working area of the kitchen to be hidden from view. Asko Dishwashers, askousa.com, (800) 898-1879

Steam Treatment
A Miele steam oven, which uses moisture to cook vegetables, fish and other foods, is installed in the wall. “It makes for wonderful healthy cooking by sealing in vitamins and nutrients,” says designer Hazel Reed Zeller, who notes that steam ovens are not recommended for baking. For baked goods, the homeowners use their Dacor dual-fuel convection oven. Miele Steam Oven, Miele.com, (800) 843-7231

Cooking Light
The kitchen’s computer-controlled lighting system is one of Reed Zeller’s favorite elements. Family members can change the mood of each room from a keypad. “Press a button, and the lights go to ‘dinner party’ mode, or into ‘kitchen work’ mode at meal prep time,” she says. Under-cabinet task lighting doubles as mood lighting when the cooking is done. Lighting Electrical Logic, (970) 349-1500

Double Duty
A 36” dual-fuel Dacor range uses natural gas as well as electric. “The advantage of dual-fuel is that you can have a gas range and a true convection (which must be electric) oven,” explains Reed Zeller. “The oven also has a ceramic gas broiler that sears meat incredibly,” she says, “but the real advantage is that the electric element gives you the ability to self clean.” Dacor Range, dacor.com, (800) 793-0093

Water Works
Three Franke sinks with specific duties create separate, convenient workspaces. A cleanup sink, reserved for dirty dishes, keeps the mess away from food. A sink with a motion-activated faucet and soap dispenser is dedicated to food preparation, while a third sink is in the kitchen’s social area. At the range, a wall-mounted tap makes filling heavy pots a breeze. Franke Sinks, franke.com, (800) 626-5771