Compact and smart: The minimalist design revolution in Israeli homes

The compact design trend is reshaping Israeli homes, with 40% upgrading kitchen appliances for better functionality and aesthetics.

"Saving upper space while eliminating the need for a bulky range hood (photo credit: Küppersbusch Studio)
"Saving upper space while eliminating the need for a bulky range hood
(photo credit: Küppersbusch Studio)

The compact revolution in modern kitchens marks a significant shift in how we perceive home space. As always, the kitchen remains the heart of the home—a place that blends functionality with aesthetics, serving a range of needs beyond just food preparation, as it was traditionally viewed. The evolving trend of compact appliances offers smart solutions that change how we use and manage space in the kitchen, helping us start the new year in a more organized, cleaner, and stylish environment.

One of the most impressive innovations is the integration of multiple functions into a single appliance. The trend of cooktops with built-in range hoods represents a small revolution in the modern kitchen. According to a survey by the Clinton Group, cooktops are the most used appliance in the kitchen (39%), alongside ovens, which scored the same percentage. The innovation of combining cooktops with built-in range hoods offers impressive efficiency, space-saving, and aesthetics. Instead of installing a separate hood, the integrated system saves valuable space, simplifies the kitchen's appearance, and gives it a clean and modern look. The advantages are many: Better use of overhead space, improved efficiency in removing steam and odors, easier cleaning and maintenance, and a clean, unified design. In addition to saving space, this system reflects the broader trend of smart and compact appliances tailored to modern lifestyles. For those with small kitchens or those aiming for a minimalist look, it's an ideal solution that combines advanced functionality with clean aesthetics, creating a more efficient, spacious, and inviting kitchen.

30 cm Domino Cooktop - space-saving and safe (credit: Teka Studio)
30 cm Domino Cooktop - space-saving and safe (credit: Teka Studio)

There is also a growing trend of integrated refrigerators that fit into the wall, offering a high-quality, functional solution for compact kitchens. "The advantages of integrated refrigerators are many and significant: They save a lot of space, improve the kitchen's aesthetic by creating a clean, unified look, and offer greater flexibility in kitchen design," explains Asi Arbiv, co-owner of Clinton Trade. "They make efficient use of space, especially in small apartments, and give the kitchen a luxurious, modern appearance. These refrigerators come with advanced technologies for keeping food fresh and saving energy, allowing for precise customization to family needs. For those looking to upgrade their kitchen and adapt it to contemporary standards of design and functionality, an integrated refrigerator offers an ideal solution that combines efficiency, aesthetics, and long-term value."

New compact-sized wine coolers that allow efficient space utilization (credit: Teka Studio)
New compact-sized wine coolers that allow efficient space utilization (credit: Teka Studio)

Wine refrigerators that can be integrated into the kitchen island or as part of a regular fridge offer significant benefits beyond the obvious space-saving. "Wine refrigerators provide optimal storage conditions with precise temperature and humidity control, ensuring accessibility and convenience during cooking and entertaining while saving energy. Their flexible design allows them to fit into any kitchen, protecting wine from light and vibrations. They enhance the cooking experience and allow for personalization with different temperature zones. With the integration of smart technology and the creation of a sophisticated atmosphere, these wine refrigerators become essential accessories for wine enthusiasts and frequent hosts. They offer an elegant solution combining functionality and aesthetics, significantly elevating the home kitchen, turning it into an impressive and professional hosting space," says Arbiv.

Refrigerators that connect and split in various sizes (credit: Teka Studio)
Refrigerators that connect and split in various sizes (credit: Teka Studio)

Dishwashers integrated into the kitchen island offer significant advantages beyond space-saving. "Island-integrated dishwashers improve kitchen ergonomics, allowing for easier access and reducing the need to bend over," explains Ofer Rossmann, architect and co-owner of XS Studio. "Their integration into the island optimizes the workflow in the kitchen and enhances the cooking and hosting experience. The design flexibility they offer opens up new possibilities for space utilization, while their improved aesthetics contribute to a clean, unified look. In small kitchens, they provide a smart solution for installing a dishwasher in areas where it was previously impossible. For the modern consumer, it's an opportunity to create a more efficient, comfortable, and aesthetic kitchen suited to contemporary living needs."

The dishwasher that fits into the kitchen island and maximizes its location (credit: Küppersbusch Studio)
The dishwasher that fits into the kitchen island and maximizes its location (credit: Küppersbusch Studio)

The value of these compact appliances lies in their ability to improve the user's quality of life. They enable the creation of fully-equipped, advanced kitchens even in small apartments or limited spaces, thereby expanding housing and design possibilities. Additionally, the energy efficiency of many of these products helps save on electricity bills and reduces the ecological footprint—a great way to start the new year in a more environmentally friendly manner. "This trend reflects our desire for efficiency and renewal. It allows us to create kitchens that are not only efficient and practical but also aesthetically pleasing and suited to modern lifestyles. It's an excellent opportunity to rethink our kitchens and adapt them to our needs and dreams for the coming year," concludes Arbiv.

The compact revolution in the kitchen allows us to create a space that is not only efficient and practical but also stylish and inviting. These products save space and offer a cleaner, more organized kitchen, making cooking and hosting a more enjoyable experience in the coming year.