Incredible Shrinking Appliances

In the world of major appliances, bigger isn’t necessarily better, particularly if you’re trying to outfit a small kitchen with top-of-the-line gear or you’re putting in a second appliance for ancillary use. Well, here’s good news: It seems top appliance manufacturers are becoming increasingly space conscious, as they’ve launched an array of high-performance models with diminutive dimensions. Here’s a sampling of several noteworthy space-savers.

Liebherr 24-inch
Premium no-frost
refrigerator
(CS1350)

German refrigerator manufacturer Liebherr is a newcomer to the American market, and this tall, narrow fridge (80 inches high by 24 inches wide by 25 inches deep) is but one of its space- and energy-efficient designs. In fact, this model is the most energy-efficient bottom-freezer refrigerator on the market. It features stainless-steel construction, dual silent compressors that allow independent control of the fridge section and the frost-free freezer. The retail price is about $2,800. To find dealers near you, visit LiebherrAppliances.com.

Bosch Integra
800 Series
18-inch dishwasher
(SRV53C03UC)

This compact 18-inch built-in dishwasher is big on features: five wash cycles plus power scrub, glass, quick, economy, enviro, and many other settings. And the stainless steel interior is roomier than you might think; it has two adjustable racks, can handle 24 place settings, and has a special spray tower for extra-tall items. Expect to pay about $1,100. For more information visit BoschAppliances.com.

Danby Silhouette
27-bottle wine cooler
(DWC276BLS)

Danby’s svelte under-the-counter wine cooler is just 12 inches wide by 34 inches tall, so it can squeeze into even the smallest undercounter space. But it has the capacity to store 27 wine bottles. The suggested retail price is $700. For more information visit Danby.com.

24-inch Aga Companion

This 24-inch-wide dual-fuel range is meant to be a companion to a larger Aga range, but there’s no reason why it couldn’t be your one and only. It boasts four high-power gas burners, two electric ovens (one conventional oven with a broiler and one convection oven), and the classic Aga design. Made of cast iron and available in 15 appealing colors, it retails for about $4,350. For dealers visit Aga-Ranges.com.

Other manufacturers are also making small-scale appliances. Visit their Web sites for information:  DelonghiMajorAppliances.com; FiveStarRange.com; Gaggenau-usa.com; Miele.com; SummitAppliance.com; VikingRange.com.