How to choose appliances for a bespoke kitchen — the order of decisions and pitfalls you don't know about
This is one of those topics where customers most often make mistakes — and mistakes whose consequences are costly to fix. The choice of appliances and the design of a bespoke kitchen must go together. If you do them separately, in the wrong order — you face compromises you will feel for 15 years.
At Furnipark, over more than 20 years, we have carried out kitchen projects with every possible set of appliances — from basic to fully integrated premium units. We write about what we know from practice — not from a catalogue.
The answer to the most common question: appliances or furniture first?
Appliances first. Always.
This is a rule we repeat to every customer. The design of a bespoke kitchen is adapted to the dimensions of your appliances — not the other way round. If the design is created before choosing the appliances, and the units bought have non-standard dimensions — you face a redesign, and in the worst case a rebuild of the finished furniture.
What specifically you need to know before the design:
- The dimensions of the oven (width, height, depth, place of installation — high or low)
- The dimensions of the dishwasher (standard 60 cm or narrow 45 cm)
- The dimensions of the fridge (width, height — especially important with built-in)
- The type and dimensions of the hob (whether it requires a cut-out in the worktop)
- The type of hood (under-cabinet, chimney, island — it affects the layout of the wall cabinets)
Critical dimensions — what can't be overlooked
Oven
A standard built-in oven has a width of 60 cm and a height of 45 cm or 60 cm. But note:
- The height of the cabinet under the oven must be matched to the specific model — different ovens have different external housing heights.
- A steam or combination oven (steam oven) can be taller — check the spec sheets.
- If you want the oven at working height (not at floor level) — the tall unit requires a specific depth and free ventilation space at the sides and back.
Dishwasher
A standard dishwasher has a width of 60 cm and a height of 82–86 cm (adjustable feet). A narrow one is 45 cm. Seemingly simple — but:
- The worktop above the dishwasher must have sufficient clearance — check the installation dimension (not just the overall size).
- An integrated dishwasher (a furniture panel instead of an appliance facia) requires precise synchronisation with the cabinet front — and not every appliance manufacturer allows this.
- The location of the drain and supply must be established before drawing the plumbing.
Fridge
With a freestanding fridge — you just need to reserve a space of the right width and height. With a built-in fridge (behind a furniture front) — the matter is more complex:
- A built-in fridge has a limited capacity for the same external dimensions as a freestanding one.
- A fridge for a tall build (a column) takes up space from floor to ceiling — this must be planned in the design from the start.
- The fridge door must open freely — check the side of the hinges and whether it doesn't clash with the neighbouring cabinet or wall.
Hob
The dimensions of the cut-out in the worktop for the hob are strictly specified by the appliance manufacturer — they differ between models. The cut-out in the worktop for a specific model must be made after the appliance is delivered (or on the basis of the installation instructions).
- Induction requires a 3-phase electrical cable or a special circuit — check the electrical installation before buying.
- A gas hob requires a gas connection in the right place — and an electrical cable for the ignition.
- A flush-mount hob (level with the worktop, without a rim) requires precise finishing of the cut-out edge — not every team does this.
Built-in or freestanding — the basic differences
| Criterion | Built-in appliances | Freestanding appliances |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | Uniform — the appliance invisible behind a furniture front | The appliance housing visible |
| Price of the appliance | Higher (built-in models are more expensive) | Lower |
| Replacement after a breakdown | Harder — the new model must fit the existing cabinet | Simple — pull out and insert a new one |
| Ventilation | Requires free space in the cabinet (the manufacturer states the requirements) | Natural ventilation — simpler |
| Furniture design | Must take into account exact dimensions and installation requirements | Just reserve the appropriate space |
Who installs the appliances — the furniture maker or a separate team?
This is an important question worth resolving before installing the kitchen.
During installation we carry out: cabinets, carcasses, fronts, worktop, sink (connection to an existing supply). We can also put in and level the appliances into their intended places.
What we don't install: electrical connections (they require a qualified electrician), gas connections (they require a qualified gas fitter), water/sewage connections (they require a plumber). With fridges with a water dispenser — also a plumber.
The practical order:
- The kitchen design with the layout of the appliances marked and the location of the connections.
- The electrician and plumber make the connections according to the design (before installing the furniture).
- Installation of the furniture by our team.
- Putting in and connecting the appliances by the electrician/plumber.
The most common pitfalls when choosing built-in appliances
Buying appliances before the furniture design
We have already written about this — but it is worth repeating, because it is the most common mistake. You bought an oven that is 60 cm tall externally — and the design assumed 45 cm. The result: you have to rebuild the cabinet or buy a different oven.
Ignoring ventilation requirements
A built-in oven requires ventilation — the appliance manufacturer states the minimum clearance at the back and sides. Ignoring these requirements leads to the appliance overheating and a shortened life.
An integrated dishwasher without checking front compatibility
Not every dishwasher supports integration with a furniture front. Check before buying — and make sure the weight of the front fits within the limit set by the appliance manufacturer.
A fridge too short for a tall build
A column cabinet for a fridge has a specific internal height. If the fridge is too short, a gap remains — aesthetically and practically unacceptable. Measure twice.
Our advice when choosing appliances
- Choose the brand and model before the measuring visit — we have the spec sheets of most popular brands and match the design to the real dimensions.
- Induction instead of gas — with a kitchen open to the living room, induction generates fewer fumes and is safer. It requires an appropriate electrical installation.
- A wider dishwasher than you think — if you cook regularly for a family, the standard 60 cm is the minimum. A narrow 45 cm will do for singles or couples who cook rarely.
- The oven at working height — instead of at floor level. Taking a hot tray out of an oven at knee level is not very practical. A column cabinet with the oven at eye or elbow height is a serious improvement in ergonomics.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give the appliance dimensions after the design and adapt the furniture?
Yes — the 3D design can be corrected. It is important that the final appliance dimensions are known before placing the production order, not before the visualisation design.
Do you supply appliances?
No — we focus on producing and installing furniture. You buy the appliances yourself (we recommend doing it in advance, so there are no delays at installation).
What if I buy different appliances after installing the kitchen?
It depends on the difference in dimensions. An appliance of the same class and similar dimensions can usually be swapped without alterations. Changing to a larger or differently configured model may require rebuilding the cabinet.
How long does a kitchen with a full appliance build take?
The same as a standard one — 6–10 weeks. Building in appliances doesn't lengthen the furniture production, but the design requirements are more precise. Details: How long does it take to make a bespoke kitchen →
We will plan a kitchen with your appliances — 3D design free of charge
Give us the brands and models of appliances you are planning — and the 3D design will take into account the exact dimensions and installation requirements. No guessing, no compromises.
Call: 608 517 844 — Mon–Fri 8:00–16:00
or write: kuchnie@furnipark.pl
How much does a bespoke kitchen cost? 2026 prices →
