Appliances and Fixtures

When it’s time to remodel your kitchen or bathroom, choosing appliances and fixtures can be a hugely overwhelming task. What better way to navigate through the myriad of choices than to consult with experts? We’ve asked Mark O’Brien and Beth Bryan Maley of Morrison Supply to share their expert opinions on these topics; read on for their professional insights:

Mark O’Brien from Morrison Supply on Appliances

What is essential to know before selecting appliances? 

The customer needs to have a feel for what they expect from each product.  An example would be, will they need a convection oven or induction cook top?

Refrigerator/Freezer: Talking about refrigerators and freezers, placement is the first concern—what space is available.  Then the exterior appearance: will the units need wood fronts or are they going to be stainless steel?

Hood: This is my favorite subject. The size of the hood must match with the cook top or range top selected. Then the contractor must have the correct vent pipe size to work with. All of these things must work together. In addition, I always ask the client to bring a copy of the floor plan.  The next part [to consider] is will the hood be exposed or built-in to a wood hood?

Dishwasher: Most dishwashers perform the same function. The way the unit loads is what makes most clients choose one manufacturer over the other.

Range/Oven/Cooktop: On cook tops, induction is gaining speed and becoming more accepted.

What is the most popular finish for appliances? 

Stainless steel is still number one for most builders. 

Are panel fronts popular? 

When a client is in control of the project, they will usually use wood fronts. This allows them to conceal the appliances and adds to a cleaner look for the kitchen. 

What are some pros and cons of each?

Both finishes are fine, but with wood fronts, it takes a little more pre-planning.

Is gas or electric better for a cook-top or oven? 

On the question about which is best gas or electric, most new construction will have both gas and electric for the cook-top. The choice is what the client prefers. On ovens, 98% of the products are electric. The only time I run into a gas oven is on a project that is 40-50 years old.

With so many brands out there how do I know I am getting the best bang for my buck?

This is the part that takes so long to go over with the client. Almost all the manufacturers have some type of programs for the buyer. The best deal is going to be the one that matches the end user’s needs the best.

Beth Bryan Maley of Morrison Supply on Fixtures

What is essential to know before selecting the following? 

Sinks:  I always ask the clients what they are using for their countertops.  Are they replacing or getting new countertops?  It is good to know so that we choose the right sink; whether it is an undermount or drop-in, that we know the space available, and that we match any surrounding finishes.

Faucets:   It is good to consider the finish of the hardware and appliances in the room.  Also, bringing in pictures of what you like is helpful to find one similar to what you are looking for and at the price point you are looking at.

Toilets:  I always ask what the clients are looking for as far as the style for the room: traditional, transitional, contemporary, etc.  

Tubs/Showers:  If you are planning to put in a custom shower or universally designed bath tub, you need to consider that an extra drain may be needed and/or bumping up the water heater capacity.  

Hardware:  Again, consider the finishes of the faucet and appliances in the room and what style you want to portray.

What are some new products in the world of baths?

Elevance Rising Wall Bath Tub by Kohler.  It has increased accessability and meets ADA Guidelines. Visit the Kohler website for more information.

What is the most popular finish for faucets and hardware?

Brushed or Satin Nickel 

If I am planning to sell soon, what updates are worth making?

Bath: Updating the bath/shower always appeals to people.  Consider a custom shower and/or an air/whirlpool tub.

Kitchen: Consider changing out faucets/hardware to an updated finish like brushed/satin nickel.

If I am planning to stay for awhile, what should I consider for myself/my family down the road?

Kitchen and master bath updates; redefine the space and make it more functional.  Air bathtubs are a great choice to eliminate mildew from forming, they require less cleaning, and are healthier.  Another thing to consider is a whole house filtration system.  It gives you bottled water quality at every faucet which kicks out chlorine making it more healthy, won’t fade your clothes, and won’t dry out your skin.

With so many brands out there how do I know I am getting the best bang for my buck?

Check warranties and check what parts/pieces they specifically cover. 

Many thanks to Mark and Beth for sharing their time and knowledge with us!  Visit the Cabinets & Designs showroom so we can show you how to incorporate your appliance and fixture selections into your dream kitchen.