In today’s world, the kitchen is so much more than a place to cook meals. It’s easier than ever to turn this essential space into a high-tech hub that’s beautiful, functional and even fun. Here are nine tips for creating a technology-friendly kitchen for a smarter culinary experience.
Above photo: An “art” television provides a convenient place to watch TV, while displaying digital artwork when off. Photo Credit: Ryan Hainey
- Command Central
You can elevate a kitchen’s functionality with a dedicated touchscreen. Whether wall-mounted or placed on the countertop, many sleek solutions allow screens to be docked permanently or magnetically. From managing the family’s weekly schedule to finding new recipes for dinner, a well-placed screen can enhance a kitchen’s organization and connectivity.
- Robust Wi-Fi for a Seamless Experience
With a growing list of smart appliances and the increasing demands of remote work, reliable Wi-Fi is essential. Fast, stable internet connections ensure that smart devices stay in sync. For optimal coverage, consider placing Wi-Fi “access points” in strategic locations, such as on the ceiling in a nearby closet or pantry, to hide devices out of sight. If you’re using Wi-Fi 6 or 7 technology, keep in mind that these newer systems offer faster speeds but shorter ranges, so placement is key.
- Voice Assistance for a Hands-Free Kitchen
Cooking can be messy, and when hands are full, tasks like changing the music, turning on the TV or adjusting the lights can become challenging. Voice-controlled assistants can manage your clients’ smart kitchens with ease. Whether they need to check the weather or start their favorite playlist, voice assistance lets them do it all hands-free.
- Lighting for Every Mood
The kitchen is a multi-functional space, so why settle for one type of lighting? Smart lighting systems can adjust to various scenarios: bright, daylight-like lighting for meal prep or warm, intimate lighting for dinner. New lighting solutions can even change colors, allowing you to further customize environments based on the task at hand. Whether they’re chopping vegetables or hosting a dinner party, smart lighting ensures that your clients’ kitchens are perfectly lit for every occasion.
- Motorized Window Treatments for Privacy and Sun Control
Kitchens often feature large windows that let in plenty of beautiful natural light but may be problematic for privacy or sun glare. Motorized window treatments are a game-changer, allowing your clients to adjust shades at the touch of a button. And for those with existing kitchens who would love to motorize their window treatments, there are plenty of battery-powered solutions that can operate for long periods – even years – before needing a recharge.
- Bring the Party to the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the life of the party, so why not enhance the atmosphere with some strategically placed speakers? Rather than a couple of large, overpowering speakers, consider installing multiple (smaller) ones throughout the kitchen. This creates a comfortable sound environment for conversations while still being able to pump up the volume when it’s time to entertain.
- The Most Watched TV in the Home (Even if It’s Hidden)
If your clients are concerned about aesthetics or want to keep their TV concealed when not in use, consider options that blend seamlessly with the kitchen design. You can mount a TV behind sliding panels or incorporate a motorized lift to make it disappear when it’s not needed. Another popular solution is “art” televisions, which double as a digital canvas when turned off, personalizing the space with artwork or family photos.
- Monitor Water & Air Quality
Incorporating smart sensors into your clients’ kitchens can help them monitor water and air quality. These sensors track the overall healthiness of their environment and can even send alerts to their smartphone if air and water quality reach unsafe levels.
- Partner With a Technology Expert
Technology is always evolving, and staying on top of the latest trends can be overwhelming. Whether building a new kitchen or renovating an existing one, consider partnering with a local home technology expert to navigate the growing landscape of kitchen innovations.
By Bryan Mills, President of Mills Technologies