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Sub Zero wine fridge; Wolf hood fan, cooktop and double oven. M A R C H 2 0 2 5 | 29 Appliances P H OTO G R A P H Y CO U RT E S Y M I D N O RT H ER N A P P L I A N C E; M I D D L EBY R E S I D EN T I A L ; C A N A D I A N A P P L I A N C E S O U RC E Manufacturers are not investing in new gas technology given several jurisdic- tions are pushing away from gas." He explains several brands are introducing full surface induction cooktops. "These allow the user to place their pots any- where they choose rather than being confined to designated cooking zones." Gnat notes there is also a higher demand for all black appliances versus stain- less steel for market condominiums. "Even companies such as Wolf, Miele, Jenn Air, and Monogram are showing more black on their built-in cooking products. The use of cabinet panels on built-in refrigeration and dishwashers continues to be used in multi-unit residential applications. We are getting requests for freestanding stainless steel for purpose-built rental projects as developers and asset owners see a long-term advantage for replacement, should the need arise, that would not impact kitchen sizes." WHITE IS BACK According to Canadian Appliance Source national flooring manager Alicia Harmon, white appliances are making a stunning comeback – and they're better than ever. "While traditional textured white refrigerators and coil-top ranges still hold their well-earned place in the appliance world, a fresh new aesthetic is taking over." She notes today's white appliances come with high-end features like bronze, black, platinum, and champagne hardware, sophisticated glass finishes, and cutting-edge technology – think illuminated knobs and cooktops, push-to-open connected wall ovens, AI cameras, and even tablets built into fridge doors. "Reimagined cooking appliances are available in dual fuel, gas, electric, and induction options, making them perfect for every type of home chef," she says. "For those who want even more tech, there are options to sync all of your appli- ances to your home's Wi-Fi network." These updated classics combine sleek design with ultimate functionality. "Clients are loving the pristine, fingerprint-free look, while designers admire how they effortlessly blend timeless elegance with modern flair, transforming any home. With trusted brands like GE Café, Samsung, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, and LG Studio leading the charge, these aren't your grandparent's appliances anymore," Harmon says. BLENDING TR ADITION WITH FL AIR Blair Bishop, regional sales manager at Middleby Residential Canada Brand says that Viking is taking a detour from the professional appliance space they created and entering the more contemporary design kitchen spaces with the debut of its new Viking RVL Collection. "With a fully integrated design, RVL seamlessly blends tradition with contemporary flair, showcasing unparalleled craftsman- ship, innovative design and the cooking performance you expect from a true Viking product," says Bishop. The modern styling and innovative controls further revolutionize the home kitchen with a dynamic product offering including steam and convection ovens, cooktops, and warming drawers. "The RVL products have been reengineered to fit into cabinetry with industry leading small reveal tolerances and the ability to install products either vertically or horizontally," says Bishop. The RVL Single and Double ovens utilize a two-speed convection system to evenly circulate air through- out the entire oven cavity along with the environmentally friendly Steam Clean feature that is perfect for light and medium cleaning and only takes 20 minutes. The Viking RVL Single and Double ovens are the first Viking products with an all-in-one platform for connected cooking and a streamlined user interface outfitted in stunning black glass. The touch control screen allows for easy adjustment of the oven while the app provides seamless guided cooking, includ- ing over 200 recipes to make cooking as easy as it is delicious. Along with the single and double ovens, there are additional new products that are part of the RVL built-in cooking product line. The 30-inch Steam Oven brings a new dimension to culinary possibilities and the induction cooktops, offered in 30- and 36-inch sizes, redefine cooking efficiency, offering superior power, responsiveness and efficiency. STRIDES IN AI Behzad Joushan, key account manager, Trail Appliances' multifamily builder sales division, notes artificial intelligence is making significant strides in the appliance world. "It's exciting to see how manufacturers are leveraging this technology," he says. "Smart washers and dryers use AI to detect weight and fab- ric type, automatically adjusting wash cycles for optimal performance. Beyond laundry, we're seeing smart refrigerators that can track the items inside and suggest recipes, as well as ovens that learn your cooking preferences to perfect each meal. These advancements not only improve user convenience but also enhance energy efficiency and appliance longevity." He adds steam ovens are gaining popularity as a healthier cooking option. "They retain more nutrients and vitamins in food compared to traditional high-heat methods, reducing the need for added fats and oils. Additionally, steam cooking minimizes the formation of harmful compounds, making meals both delicious and nutritious. This trend aligns perfectly with the growing consumer focus on health and wellness, and it seems like they're gaining traction in kitchens everywhere." The new Viking RVL Collection. White appliances are making a stunning comeback.

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