It is hard to believe, but 2012 is already halfway over! In the past six months, we’ve noticed some popular trends our customers have been leaning towards, so we thought that we would share some of those trends with you. Technology has been the focus! The photos above show the new White Ice series from Whirlpool, which feature stainless handles with white color, premium appliances. Let’s take a look at some of the other 2012 trends.
Induction Cooking
We talked about induction cooking technology on the blog last year and it continues to be a popular trend in our customers’ kitchens this year. If you’re new to this technology, induction cooking uses magnets to cook faster and more energy-efficient than traditional electric stoves. It also allows for temperature control that was previously only available through professional-level gas stove tops. As the demand for induction cooking technology continues to grow, designs will improve and prices will continue to drop!
Touch Screen Interfaces
Chances are you are one of the millions of Americans who now uses a smart phone on a daily basis. You’re also probably very accustomed to their functionality. It seems only natural that touch screen technology would begin to show up in our home appliances. We’ve seen a number of our manufacturers adding touch screen interfaces on dishwashers, refrigerators, ranges, ovens and microwaves. It is easy and intuitive to tap the screen one-time to activate and then use the on-screen menu to select the function. The new Jenn-Air Pro-Style Range (pictured below) even allows cooks to program the cooking method, time and temperature of successful recipes and recall them when repeating the recipe.
Beautiful Design
So maybe beautiful design is something that is always considered trendy, but what designs we would call ‘beautiful’ certainly change over time. In 2012, we’ve seen manufacturers begin to replicate the stylings of some of today’s popular high tech gadgets in their home appliance designs. Designs in 2012 have become much cleaner and streamlined – some even closely resemble the look of an iPhone or iPad. Take a look at the photo below. Can you believe that is a range hood from Broan?
Steam Ovens
Steam ovens are not brand new to the market, but like induction cooking, it is quickly becoming a viable option and alternative to the standard oven. Cooking with steam is a fast, easy way to seal in nutrients and flavors. Since the food only absorbs the amount of moisture needed to cook, there is less chance of overcooking or drying out. Steam ovens will continue their trendy rise as they are now available at the mid-range level and are being marketed to health-conscious consumers. Pictured below is a steam oven from German manufacturer Miele.
Have you seen any other prevailing trends in 2012? Let us know in the comments below!
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