From auto keys to voice and motion activated appliances, technology is finding its way into our hearts and homes. iPads can be used to regulate lighting, entertainment systems, temperature and security, making sophisticated technological features commonplace. Thanks to the wonders of technology, some state of the art products and features are transforming the kitchen and the way we work there.

Hands free

The motion activated kitchen faucet just might be the best thing since sliced bread. This water saving device reduces water consumption while eliminating the spread of germs. Hands that touched raw meat or eggs needn’t worry about leaving germs on the faucet handle or other surfaces. A preset water temperature automatically goes to where you set it and the auto shut off feature removes the chance of overflow.

The voice activated coffee maker combines simplicity and sophistication. Just press and talk to set brew time. The easy fill and automatic pause and serve function allows you to grab a cup before it finishes the brewing cycle. A standard two hour automatic shut off takes the worry out of leaving the machine on once you’ve left the house.

Digital meat thermometer with remote probe. Oven temperatures are notoriously imprecise. To eliminate foodborne illness from undercooked meat this device is amazing. The metal probe can be inserted into the meat with an ovenproof wire connecting it to the thermometer which never enters the oven. Once the meat reaches the desired temperature, the probe sets of an alert giving foolproof cooking every time. Easy to use, the thermometer also comes with a timer to avoid overcooking.

Appliances

From induction to electric to gas, today’s high performance cooktops and ranges bring restaurant capability to your kitchen. With options like multi-unit gas burner, griddle wok burner, fryer or steamer you can cook just about anything. Dual fuel ranges combine gas and electric features in one unit with gas cooktop and convection electric oven.

Refrigeration choices like full glass doors, all refrigerator and all freezer units, freestanding wine cellars and under the counter ice makers, manufacturers are redefining the way we look at this age old appliance. With choices that blend them into the furniture or smart features like LCD display, troubleshooting, energy consumption and adjustment, maintenance scheduling and even monitoring food expiration dates, the refrigerator is doing amazing things.

Designers are engineering kitchens with specific task locations, such as prep station, clean up station, and computer stations are tailor made for the individual cook. Specialty stations like baking and canning are centered around a major appliance.

Innovations in Cabinets

Hydraulic hinges move cabinet doors up and out of the way. Adjustable in three directions these easily installed hinges can be adjusted with a screwdriver and close automatically with the touch of a button.

Custom cabinets now come with multi-tiered drawers to make the most of small spaces. Sink drawers keeps sponges, soaps and supplies out of sight, keeping the sink area clean. The push on feature easily opens handle less cabinet doors with a light touch.

Lighting

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) are a long energy saving light source with endless possibilities. Solving just about every lighting challenge, LEDs can be used as recessed lighting, toe kicks, under cabinets, accent lights, pendant lights, lighted glass countertops and along moldings.

Eye on the Future

While you may not have Bill Gates’ 100 million dollar house, technology is integrating itself into each part of our life, filtering down to our everyday needs. Every technological stride makes our life a little easier, so we can use our time for the things most important to us.