Practicality and functionality: 9 possible ways to place the microwave in the kitchen
The arrangement of work areas in a classic kitchen is based on «triangle rule», which ensures the rational movement of food from the refrigerator to the sink, and then to the stove, to make the cooking process comfortable. But what about other equally important, albeit sometimes small, objects in the form of various devices and equipment that we use every day? For example, a microwave oven. We suggest that you familiarize yourself with the advantages and disadvantages of this or that location of the microwave oven in the kitchen.
1. Below the level of the working surface
Below the level of the work surface
If the working surface area is small, or there are only wall cabinets, then you should consider installing an additional bedside table below the desktop level so that you can put a microwave on it.
Benefits. Firstly, you do not take up space on the work surface and do not clutter up the space between the work area and hanging cabinets, if any..
Disadvantages. If the microwave is very low, it will be inconvenient to place and remove food from it. In addition, if the family has small children, then this location of the electrical appliance is considered inappropriate from a safety point of view..
Council. If one of the drawers is removed in the cabinet, then a microwave oven can be installed in its place, and the cost of this manipulation will be minimal. In addition, you can purchase or order furniture for the kitchen, taking into account the place for the microwave. Which also does not entail extra costs.
2. Integrate the microwave into the kitchen cabinet
Integrate the microwave into the kitchen cabinet
This is the perfect way for perfectionists who like to keep everything very neat and beautiful..
Benefits. You can individually choose the optimal height for you.
Disadvantages. If the microwave is located far from the work surface, then inadvertently raising or lowering a plate with a hot dish, you can burn yourself.
Council. It is difficult to find the necessary modification of ready-made furniture, and you will have to order lockers based on individual priorities, taking into account the appearance and height. This will incur additional costs.
3. Separate place in the closet
Separate place in the closet
This way from the category «do it yourself». Thus, you can even hide the microwave with a door when not in use..
Benefits. As in the case of an integrated microwave oven, this method makes it possible to install the device at the desired height in a cabinet that you are not using 100%. Also, it’s a cheap way.
Disadvantages. Many in the family may be annoyed by a door left or crumbs that have accumulated in crevices. In addition, the door itself can become an obstacle if you often use the microwave..
Council. If suitable lockers already exist, the only problem may be having to drill a hole for the cord to allow access to the outlet. If you think about it during the renovation, you can install the socket inside the cabinet and hide the wires. Read carefully the instructions for your microwave and pay attention to the ventilation requirements so that the microwave does not overheat.
4. Corner cabinet
Corner cabinet
A corner cabinet can be a great solution for a kitchen, as it will provide additional storage space for things and fixtures..
Benefits. You get additional storage space for items and necessary utensils.
Disadvantages. It may turn out that there is a lot of unused space between the microwave and the wall..
Council. Traditionally, corner cabinets are planned during renovation, as they are problematic to install later. If you pre-order a corner cabinet for the kitchen along with the rest of the furniture, then this will not entail more financial costs..
5. Hanging cabinet above the stove
Hanging cabinet above the stove
Perhaps this is not the best way, but it is quite effective in terms of saving space..
Benefits. Microwave and hood installed above the work surface, in addition to performing their direct function, also save space in the work area in a kitchen with limited space.
Disadvantages. If the microwave is set too high, there will be problems with its operation. In addition, a microwave oven can spoil the aesthetic appearance of an elegant cooker hood and have ventilation problems..
Council. It would be nice if the microwave and stove were the same style and design, so you should order them from the same manufacturer. Installing the stove, hood and microwave will take several hours, taking into account the fact that first of all it is necessary to dismantle the old stove, hood and microwave. In addition, you will have to change furniture, which is an expensive pleasure..
6. In the beverage preparation area
In the beverage preparation area
This is a good option when it comes to a buffet, a bar in the basement of the house or other utility rooms..
Benefits. The presence of a microwave in the area where coffee is prepared will speed up the preparation of breakfast or snacks, in addition, you will not interfere with those who prepare main dishes while in the work area.
Disadvantages. It is inappropriate for the microwave to be located far from the refrigerator or work area, especially if it is used often.
Council. The transformations depend on how and where you are going to place the microwave. If it is the only visible electrical appliance in the kitchen, then you need to choose the original model so that attention is concentrated on it..
7. Where other electrical kitchen appliances are concentrated
Where other electrical kitchen appliances are concentrated
This is a good way for those who wish not to emphasize the microwave oven, and treat it like any other appliance in the kitchen..
Benefits. Small-sized devices can be stored in a specific place, for example, on a work surface, close at hand, and used as needed.
Disadvantages. Multiple appliances clutter up the space.
Council. For such purposes, a bedside table with a width of more than 76 cm is more suitable, so that there is still space on the surface. If you have equipped a storage space for devices after renovation and plan to install a door, then it is better that it contrasts with other surfaces in the kitchen, for example, use a metal door if you have not found a suitable paint style.
8. In the kitchen island
In the kitchen island
Place the microwave in an accessible place without hiding it, for example, in a self-contained work area. It is both convenient and rational.
Benefits. Saves space in the main work area. In addition, the microwave is located away from the main cooking area, which means it does not bother anyone.
Disadvantages. If the microwave is at the bottom, you have to bend over, which is very inconvenient.
Council. If lockers with drawers and shelves are already planned in the autonomous work area, then finding a place for the microwave will not be difficult and will not require financial costs.
9. Above the oven
Over the oven
In this kitchen, the main focus is on the stainless steel surface, so the kitchen equipment is not hidden from prying eyes. It is both modern and does not require additional carpentry work.
Benefits. All the equipment in the kitchen is in one place and is built-in. In addition, this method allows you to install a large professional microwave oven.
Disadvantages. Sometimes the microwave is installed too high or too low, which is very inconvenient during operation.
Council. This appointment may incur additional costs.
