Microwave Drawers: A New Necessity for Luxury Kitchens?

When microwaves first came out, the countertop microwave was the only type available. They were a huge progressive step in convenience but unfortunately, they took up precious countertop real estate. Then built-in microwave ovens over the stove became popular which freed up counter space bringing a welcome change.

However, over-the-range microwaves weren’t the aesthetic focal point many people desired for a modern kitchen. And the combination of microwave and range hood vent wasn’t always the most effective for ventilation. There was also the concern that for kids or people with accessibility concerns, having a microwave up so high may be difficult or unsafe for some people to use.

Today, homeowners want kitchen features that look great and are accessible for anyone in the household at any stage of life, height, or ability level. They also want range hood covers that contribute to the luxury kitchen design aesthetics in a positive way, while providing fantastic ventilation during cooking.

The microwave drawer addresses these important concerns with a new, innovative design. Some of our clients prefer a microwave/wall oven combo but most of our luxury home clients opt for a drawer instead of a countertop or over-the-range microwave.

What Is a Microwave Drawer?

In the past, microwave ovens opened with a hinged door in the front. But microwave drawers function as a drawer opening under the counter (or in standard cabinetry or below a wall oven). So you open the oven by pulling it out and then you set the plate/container of food down into the microwave from the top.

Why Are Microwave Drawers Popular in Luxury Kitchens?

Many of our clients design beautiful custom white kitchens with custom shaker cabinets, a large kitchen island with a microwave drawer, pendant lights over the island, farmhouse sinks, wide planked hardwood floors, and stainless steel appliances.

Luxury kitchens are all about having the best and most functional equipment. Often, they also include the latest appliances and conveniences.

For our clients, microwave drawers make a lot of sense because they are low profile, beautiful, modern, and easy to use. They don’t distract from the beauty of the kitchen design or take up countertop space.

There are many pros and cons to microwave drawers. It’s a good idea to consider them all before deciding if this appliance is right for you.

What Are the Advantages of a Microwave Drawer?

Under the counter microwave drawers are great because they:

• Save valuable counter space.
• Give you a lot more space over your range and room for a better ventilation system.
• Have child safety locks.
• Allow almost anyone in the family can use them.
• Are more ergonomic for under-the-counter use than traditional built-in microwaves (no bending down).
• Generally have 1.0 – 1.2 cubic feet capacity.
• Available as combination appliances with wall ovens.
• Are spacious.
• Are sleek and modern looking.
• Keep spills to a minimum because of the angle.
• Are powerful, coming in different power levels like 950-1000 watts.
• Have sensor cooking and all the features you’d want in a microwave.
• Work with any style of kitchen from farmhouse to a modern kitchen.
• Can be installed anywhere: kitchen islands, kitchen cabinets, sculleries, large pantries, or kitchenettes.
• The control panel is easy to reach.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Microwave Drawer?

Drawer microwave ovens have their downsides, too. They:

• Are quite a bit more expensive than traditional microwaves.
• Are easier for kids to use when you don’t want them to if you forget to lock them.
• Don’t have a turntable feature.
• May not be able to do convection cooking, although this
• convection microwave drawer by Sharp can.
• Are more difficult to install, which is a big part of the additional expense.
• May not be large enough for very big casserole dishes.
• Still take up space that could be used for something else.

How Much Do Microwave Drawers Cost?

If you look at a Home Depot or Lowe’s store, you’ll find a range of pull-out microwave drawers available for about $1000 to $2000. These are designed to be built-in microwave drawers and require professional installation.

If you want a convection microwave drawer oven, expect to spend about $2000.

Looking for a Custom Home Contractor in Lexington, SC to Build Your Dream Home?

Blythe Building Company has been in business since 2004 building over 100 luxury homes in the Greater Columbia area. Lee Blythe is a Certified Master Builder who understands how important it is to use quality materials and have quality workmanship in a family’s dream home.

If you’re ready to get started building your luxury home in our area.

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