Just like fashion and home decor, every new year brings new trends in home appliances. While it's not necessarily practical to remodel your kitchen every year to incorporate a popular style or feature, sometimes appliances need to be replaced. Next time you're ready to invest in a new device, think of it as an opportunity to take advantage of the latest and greatest innovations.
Here, we spoke to a professional kitchen designer and an interior designer about which trends we're most likely to see everywhere in 2025 – and why they're so in demand.
Microwave drawers
Previously, microwaves were placed on the countertop – or placed above the stove – but more and more people are now opting for microwave drawers. What's the difference? A microwave drawer slides out like a drawer, rather than having a door that opens to the side. “Aesthetically, it’s more appealing and often tucked away on the edge of an island,” says Scarpulla. It's also more accessible, as it's easier to reach over a stove to use a standard microwave.
Sustainable devices
Some newer devices have additional technology that improves efficiency and sustainability. These eco-friendly features are popular among homeowners, especially those that help reduce waste. For example, according to Matt, Sub-Zero recently introduced a refrigerator with NASA-inspired technology that purifies the air of contaminants and helps extend the freshness of produce.
Insertion areas
Slide-in or backless ranges have controls on the front of the range. “This allows the tile backsplash and pot filler to be the focus rather than the stove controls,” says Barbra Scarpulla, designer and project manager at Brattesani Designs. A slide-in range gives customers the freedom to choose, for example, a full stone backsplash with a shelf, which is slightly more visually appealing and intriguing than a traditional range.
refrigerator drawers
More and more people are incorporating bar areas as places to entertain their guests. Undercounter refrigerators and refrigerator drawers are popular options for these bars—they make them easier to operate by eliminating the need for frequent trips to the kitchen, says Scarpulla.
Smart devices
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Smart devices help simplify life and make everyday tasks easier. While they're already popular in home kitchens, interior designer Hilary Matt sees no signs of this trend slowing down and she expects it to gain even more momentum in 2025. New technologies are constantly being added to these features, bringing them up to date, and the best smart devices are even more in demand.
Ice machines
For many people, the ice cream maker that comes standard with a freezer or refrigerator simply cannot meet the needs of a household. The solution is under-counter ice makers, which are standard in many restaurants and are slowly but surely finding their way into private household kitchens. Some prefer countertop ice makers, but these can be bulky and unreliable, according to Scarpulla.
Outdoor devices
Garden grills were once considered a luxury. Now, outdoor kitchens have taken outdoor entertaining and meal preparation to a whole new level. “From under-counter refrigeration to specialty grills and other cooking essentials, these additions will minimize trips into the home and enhance your entertainment setup,” says Matt.
Panel-enabled devices
Some appliances can be customized with exterior trim to match the existing cabinets in a kitchen – and they're becoming increasingly popular. These appliances typically have the same depth as the countertops, contributing to a more minimalist, streamlined aesthetic, says Scarpulla. Many different types of appliances are panel ready, including standard refrigerators, wine refrigerators, dishwashers, and even ice makers.