Concealed Kitchen Elements Reavealed

Earlier this year in Milan at the EruoCucina tradeshow a lot of manufacturers were featuring kitchens with retracting and telescoping counter tops. 

Retractable counter from Minotti Cucine Design. Photo courtesy of NKBA

  K+B Insider Young Huh says, “It was the epitome of seamless integration and smart use of space". Shown here is the Atelier collection as seen in the Minotti Cucine showroom. This counter top pulls back to reveal a cook top underneath. It also conceals a kitchen sink and pop up faucet.An example of the pop up sink and faucet from Monotti Cucine This is absolutely cutting edge, allowing the function of the kitchen to be hidden from view so that we are left with the beauty of cabinetry that doubles as sculpture.  Is this something you could live with?  Maybe not but we do love to use the concept of concealment.  Think appliance panels, appliance garages and even the "larder" concept that has become so popular.  Just remember that concealment comes with a price.  It's a case by case decision and don't feel bad if you want to let it all hang out.  I think that today's appliance designs are created with aesthetics in mind, yes, they can have their own type of beauty.  It is fun, though, to explore all the options!