Built-In Beverage Centers

Built-in beverage centers are a stylish and convenient solution for homeowners looking to seamlessly integrate drink storage into their kitchens, bars, or entertainment spaces. Designed to fit flush with cabinetry, these beverage centers offer an aesthetically pleasing and functional way to store beverages at optimal temperatures. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about built-in beverage centers, from types and installation to features and capacities.

1. What Are Built-In Beverage Centers?

Built-in beverage centers are designed to be installed directly into kitchen cabinetry or under countertops, offering a seamless and integrated look. Unlike freestanding models, built-in beverage centers have front-facing ventilation, which allows them to fit flush against cabinetry without requiring additional space for air circulation.

Key Characteristics:

• • Front-Ventilation: Ensures the unit stays cool even when installed flush with cabinetry.
  • Integrated Design: Fits perfectly under counters or in custom cabinetry, giving a polished and sophisticated look.
  • Versatile Storage: Built-in units store a variety of beverages, including sodas, water, beer, and even wine.

2. Types of Built-In Beverage Centers

a. Single-Zone Built-In Beverage Centers

Single-zone beverage centers maintain a consistent temperature throughout the unit, ideal for storing one type of beverage at a time, such as beer or soda.

• • • • • • • Capacity: 60 to 200+ cans.
            • Best For: Households that primarily drink one type of beverage.
            • Pros:
              • Simple and effective cooling.
              • Generally, it is more affordable.
            • Cons:
              • Less flexible if you need to store beverages with different temperature requirements.

b. Dual-Zone Built-In Beverage Centers

Dual-zone beverage centers have two separate compartments, each with their own temperature setting, making them ideal for storing different types of beverages at their optimal temperatures.

• • • • • • • Capacity: 60 to 150 cans, or a mix of cans and wine bottles.
            • Best For: Homeowners who want to store a mix of sodas, beer, and wine.
            • Pros:
              • Versatile storage for different beverages.
              • Allows various temperature settings.
            • Cons:
              • Typically, it is more expensive than single-zone models.

c. Compact Built-In Beverage Centers

Compact built-in beverage centers are smaller units designed for kitchens or bars with limited space.

• • • • • • • Capacity: 30 to 60 cans.
            • Best For: Apartments or kitchens with limited cabinet space.
            • Pros:
              • Space-saving and energy-efficient.
              • Affordable for homeowners on a budget.
            • Cons:
              • Limited storage capacity.

3. Installation and Placement

Built-in beverage centers are designed to fit seamlessly into your cabinetry or undercounter spaces. Here are the key considerations when planning your installation:

a. Front-Ventilation System

Built-in models feature a front-ventilation system, which means they expel heat from the front rather than the back. This allows for flush installation against the cabinetry without the need for extra clearance.

b. Undercounter Installation

Undercounter beverage centers are ideal for kitchens and bars, providing easy access to drinks without taking up floor space. They fit neatly under the countertop and can be placed next to other built-in appliances like dishwashers or wine coolers.

c. Custom Cabinetry Integration

For homeowners looking for a truly integrated look, some built-in beverage centers offer panel-ready options, allowing you to install custom cabinetry panels on the door for a uniform, high-end aesthetic.

4. Features to Consider

a. Temperature Control

• • • • • Single-Zone: Provides a consistent temperature throughout the unit, ideal for storing one type of beverage.
        • Dual-Zone: Offers separate temperature zones for different types of drinks, making it perfect for those who want to store sodas, beer, and wines simultaneously.

b. Adjustable Shelving

Look for beverage centers with adjustable or removable shelves to accommodate different bottles or can sizes. Some units also have split shelves for increased versatility.

c. Glass vs. Solid Doors

• • • • • Glass Doors: Allow you to display your beverage collection while keeping drinks cool. Many glass doors are UV-protected to shield beverages from harmful light.
        • Solid Doors: Provide more insulation and protect beverages from light exposure, but don’t offer visibility.

d. LED Lighting

Interior LED lighting offers a stylish way to showcase your beverage collection while also making it easy to see and access your drinks, even in low-light conditions.

e. Smart Features

Some high-end models come with smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor and adjust the temperature remotely through a smartphone app.

f. Door Locks

For households with children or those who are storing expensive beverages, a door lock provides added security and peace of mind.

5. Capacity and Dimensions

a. Small Built-In Beverage Centers:

• • • • • Capacity: 30 to 60 cans.
        • Dimensions: Typically, 12 to 18 inches wide, 24 to 34 inches high, and 20 to 24 inches deep.

b. Medium Built-In Beverage Centers:

• • • • • Capacity: 60 to 150 cans.
        • Dimensions: Typically, 18 to 24 inches wide, 30 to 50 inches high, and 22 to 24 inches deep.

c. Large Built-In Beverage Centers:

• • • • • Capacity: 150 to 300 cans.
        • Dimensions: Typically, 24 to 30 inches wide, 55 to 70 inches high, and 24 to 30 inches deep.

6. Energy Efficiency

Built-in beverage centers can vary in energy efficiency based on their cooling technology:

• • Compressor Models: Use powerful compressors to maintain cool temperatures. They are more energy-efficient for large units but can be noisier.
  • Thermoelectric Models: Quieter and more eco-friendly, thermoelectric units are best for smaller beverage centers but may struggle to maintain low temperatures in warmer spaces.

Look for ENERGY STAR® rated models to ensure the unit meets energy efficiency standards and helps save on electricity costs.

7. Popular Brands for Built-In Beverage Centers

• • Viking: Known for high-end, luxury beverage centers with sleek designs and advanced cooling features.
  • XO Appliances: Offers stylish, high-performance built-in beverage centers with dual-zone cooling options.
  • Lynx: Specializes in durable and premium-grade indoor and outdoor beverage centers, perfect for home bars and kitchens.

Conclusion

Built-in beverage centers provide the perfect balance of style, functionality, and convenience, making them an excellent addition to any kitchen, bar, or entertainment space. With seamless installation, temperature control, and versatile storage options, built-in beverage centers help you entertain and enjoy your favorite beverages with ease.

Explore Homery.com for a wide selection of built-in beverage centers from trusted brands like Cafe, Sapphire, GE, XO Appliances, and Summit. Visit our showroom or shop online to find the perfect beverage center for your home!