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The Benefits of a Two-Refrigerator Kitchen

Refrigerator armoires in dark stained rift cut white oakEvery year around the holidays, the longing for two full-size refrigerators makes its way into almost every household. Whether it’s to store groceries to make everyone’s favorite dishes, keep appetizers cold when hosting, or simply a place to stash the delicious leftovers, the holiday season brings out fridge envy in all of us. But if you have the space in or near your kitchen, you’ll find that you can enjoy the convenience of an extra refrigerator all year long.

While the holidays may spotlight the benefits of added storage, Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe points out that a second refrigerator is about much more than just seasonal entertaining. “Fridge space isn’t just a must-have around the holidays,” Ashley says. “Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting often, or managing a busy household, a second refrigerator can help manage daily chaos by offering enough space to properly organize everything from school lunches to dinners for the week.”

For some families, the second fridge is all about organization. One might hold beverages, snacks, and prepped meals, while the other is dedicated to fresh produce and meats for cooking. “If you have a large family, host regularly, or have kids and their friends in and out, it’s amazing how quickly that space fills up,” Ashley says. For others, the setup can reflect lifestyle preferences; perhaps one fridge for healthy options and another for indulgent treats.

built in refrigerator with antique mirror finishDual refrigerators also make sense for specific needs. “If you keep a kosher kitchen, two fridges are key,” Ashley notes. Multi-generational households can benefit, too: one fridge per generation or living zone makes shared kitchens more harmonious. “It keeps everyone organized and happy,” she adds.

From a design standpoint, incorporating two refrigerators in or near the kitchen has become more creative than ever, and is an alternative to the basement or garage fridge. “Some people choose to conceal one appliance in a walk-in pantry or butler’s pantry, while others integrate a second, smaller unit into their kitchen cabinetry,” Ashley says.

“You can get a full-size column refrigerator, a counter-depth model, or even a refrigerator drawer or freezer drawer,” she explains. “There are even drawer options that switch between refrigerator and freezer mode depending on what you need, which is great for hosting or storing drinks and mixers.”

Whether you’re a foodie, a frequent host, or just someone who craves a more organized kitchen, having two refrigerators offers a blend of practicality and indulgence. “It’s one of those design decisions that once you have it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it,” Ashley says.

If you’re looking to revamp your kitchen, set up a time to talk to Ashley about transforming your home into a place that inspires you. Looking for ideas? Click through our photo galleries. Prefer a daily dose of design? We share ideas, photos, and project details on FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest. Follow along.

small refrigerator hidden with cabinet front   Beverage fridge, peninsula with seating   Pantry shelving with full size refrigerator

Refrigerator Drawers  Wet bar with open shelving and painted cabinetry  refrigerator drawers

Rift cut white oak kitchen cabinetry in dark and light stains, paired with painted cabinetry at the perimeter

Earth Tones for Enduring, Timeless Design 

Rift cut white oak kitchen cabinetry in dark and light stains, paired with painted cabinetry at the perimeterIn the search for timeless design choices, it’s tempting to default to the classic simplicity of white. But if you’re looking for a depth and richness that stands apart from a white kitchen, consider the staying power of colors provided by Mother Nature. 

“Earth tones remain a constant in home design, and their organic character makes them the perfect backdrop for any current or upcoming trend,” notes Normandy Designer Ashley Noethe. “This spectrum of shades has shifted and evolved with time, moving beyond simple neutrals to blend with any color scheme or design aesthetic.  

The shift in undertones of today’s earth-inspired palettes is what makes them feel current. “In the ’90s and early 2000s, we saw more peachy and warm undertones,” Ashley says. “Now, the look has cooled down a bit. Family Room Remodel by Normandy RemodelingWe’re seeing gray and blue undertones, even though these are still warm colors overall.”  

This subtle change allows you to blend new design choices with existing finishes, which is helpful for those who still have elements from the gray-dominant design era of the past decade. 

Butler's pantry in rift cut white oakBecause gray was so popular for so long, people are trying to blend with what they have, Ashley says. “That’s where I like to use what I call ‘chameleon colors.’ You can pair them with oranges, tans, or grays, and they still work beautifully. It makes the space more flexible and gives you the freedom to bring in new pieces of art, wallpaper, or décor without clashing.” 

This adaptability makes earth tones an ideal choice for long-lasting design. Major investments like cabinetry, flooring, and countertops benefit most from these balanced hues, ensuring the space feels current for years to come.  

Cabinetry is a significant expense, Ashley says. “You don’t want to select something that looks dated in a few years. With earth tones, you can easily rotate other colors and features in and out as trends evolve.” 

A neutral, earth-toned foundation gives people the freedom to experiment. “If the permanent elements are neutral, you can have fun with the details,” she says. “You can swap out accessories, bring in seasonal décor, or follow new color trends without needing a full remodel.” 

Recalling the more rigid palettes of decades past, Ashley says, “In the early aughts the big trend was super red cherry wood and black granite. There was only so much you could do with that. Now, we’re creating spaces that can grow and change with you.” 

By blending modern undertones with nature-inspired warmth, today’s earth tones defy trends, stay versatile, and feel timeless year after year. 

Incorporating earth tones is just one way to create a home design that stays relevant over the years. Set up a time to talk with Ashley to discuss your home remodeling vision. Find inspiration in our photo gallery, and on our Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

 

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