Is a Cooktop and Wall Oven or Range best for Your Kitchen Design?
Is a cooktop and wall oven combination or range best for your kitchen design?
When it comes to choosing most of your appliances for a kitchen design, it often comes down to style and value. Refrigerators, dish washers, and trash compactors all fit standard cabinets. However, when it comes to cooking appliances you have a wide variety of choices to consider. A standard combination range is no problem as they generally come in standard sizes from 30” to 60” wide for pro level ovens.
However, if you choose to include a wall oven (or ovens) and a cooktop all that changes. Your decision will affect other elements of your design like cabinets and counter space as well as factors like ventilation and even lighting. The issue is both pro level ranges and a wall oven/cooktop are both great choices depending on your budget and kitchen design. So how do you choose?
Pro Range or Wall Oven/Cooktop For Your Kitchen Design?
The good news is that there really is no bad decision when it comes to choosing between a pro range, or a wall oven/cooktop. It comes down to your personal preference and design aesthetics. The only real issue is that this is a decision you'll need to make before beginning your kitchen design.
Your decision impacts your overall kitchen layout, including counter tops, cabinets, ventilation, lighting and electrical/gas line placements. If you choose a standard range, you will, in essence, be giving up at least 30” of counter top and a cabinet. But it will not impact your kitchen design beyond this minor inconvenience.
The real issue is if you decide to go with a separate cooktop and wall oven(s). Your kitchen designer will need to incorporate these elements in your layout. The single or double oven will be placed within the kitchen triangle and may impact cabinet space if a wall is not available. In addition, you'll need to place your cooktop into your island, or a counter top taking up valuable real estate.
Let's explore the pros and cons of both a pro range and a wall oven/cooktop to help you make your decision.
The Pros and Cons of a Pro Range
PROS
• Space – Because the range combines both the cooktop and the oven it takes up less space in the kitchen. This is a big pro if you're working with a smaller kitchen.
• Aesthetics – The range offers a bit more style than a traditional wall oven/cooktop. A pro level range like those sold by Viking or Wolf offers an industrial look with large knobs and beefy handles. This can become a focal point in your kitchen.
• Cost – From an economic standpoint, a range offers the best value. You get all of your cooking needs, met by a single appliance. Even if you're purchasing a high-end range like a professional level Viking, this can save you thousands of dollars over purchasing separate appliances.
CONS:
Accessibility – Because the oven is located underneath the cooktop, access requires bending crouching and kneeling which can be tough as we age.
Cooking Capacity - A range can be limiting when it comes to oven capacity. Unless you go with a larger range you're looking at a single oven. While most people don't often need the capacity of a two oven wall unit, at the times when you do, it a convenience you'll appreciate.
The Pros and Cons of a Wall Oven/Cooktop
PROS
Cooking Capacity – Cooking capacity is the same as a 36” range if you choose to go with a single oven. The benefits come in the double-oven category. This is where a wall oven shines in your kitchen design. The only way you could get the equivalent cooking capacity is if you go with a 60” double oven range, but few kitchens are big enough to house one.
Easy Access – Wall ovens are easier to get to as they are generally installed around eye level. This means no bending or crouching. This is a major benefit for older homeowners who are choosing to age-in-place in their homes.
CONS
Space – Having two separate cooking areas takes twice the space. If you have a larger kitchen, this may not be a problem, but it can be limiting in a smaller kitchen.
Money – This option is expensive for exactly the same reason. Because you have to purchase two appliances, a wall oven or double oven and a separate cooktop it's the more expensive option.
The Take-Away
As you can see, there's really no wrong decision. It comes down to your lifestyle, the space available and your budget. If you're seeking a new kitchen design and remodel talk to a designer at Toulmin Kitchen and Bath. They can help you to understand your options. If you let your space and cooking needs guide you, you'll make the perfect decision!
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About Toulmin Kitchen & Bath Design - We're West Alabama's award-winning, premier kitchen and bath showroom. We're experts who are known for a design-build process that makes the construction process stress-free. Contact us to schedule an appointment for a design consultation.
