Including a dishwasher as part of your kitchen remodel may seem straightforward, but once you get into the design process, you realize there are many options: Should you have just one dishwasher, or could you benefit from two? What about dishwasher drawers? Would you prefer paneling to hide its appearance, or do you like the look of stainless steel? What should you know about choosing the location of your dishwasher?

Here are some tips on choosing a dishwasher or dishwasher drawer for your kitchen design from Normandy Designer Abby Osborn.

One Or Two Dishwashers?
Having two dishwashers might sound over-the-top, but perhaps not, depending on your situation. “If you have a large family, or cook or entertain a lot, piling all the pots, pans, dishes and utensils into two units at the end of the day makes for less stress,” Abby says. “And if you keep a kosher kitchen, having two separate dishwashers is helpful.”

Dishwasher Drawers And Double-Drawer Dishwashers
If you don’t want to commit to a full unit, a dishwasher drawer is a space saver, and the smaller loads use less water and energy. You can also have both types of units. “I’ve done projects for families with small children who have a standard dishwasher, and then a dishwasher drawer for washing bottles and kids’ items at the end of every day,” Abby says. “They also host a lot of events, so use the dishwasher drawer mainly for glassware.” You can’t stack as high with dishwasher drawers but can run just a half load without feeling wasteful.

There is also the option of a double-drawer dishwasher. “One benefit of a double-drawer dishwasher is that you can run one drawer on a more powerful cycle for pots and pans, and another drawer on ‘sanitize’ for items like baby bottles,” Abby says. “A double-drawer dishwasher can also be a good option for a kosher kitchen since the plumbing is separate.”

Paneled Dishwasher or Stainless-Steel Dishwasher?
If you want to conceal your stainless-steel dishwasher for aesthetics and a more uniform look, you can panel them. “Camouflaging your stainless appliances not only helps create a more consistent design, but it can help make the space more like an extension of your home, and more comfortable to gather in,” Abby says. Of course, if you are going for a more industrial look, let that stainless steel shine.

Choosing The Location Of Your Dishwasher
Whether you have one or two, the location of your dishwasher should be mainly about convenience and placed near cabinetry that makes it easy to unload dishes and especially utensils, if possible. While they can be placed in the island or the perimeter, be aware of your plumbing set-up. “If there’s no sink in an area where you’d like to add a dishwasher or dishwasher drawer, for instance your kitchen island, be aware that you’ll need to add another plumbing line, which is an added cost,” Abby says.

If you choose to have two dishwashers, that doesn’t mean that they both have to be in the kitchen. “If you have a kitchenette downstairs, perhaps you could benefit from easier clean-up, especially if you’re prepping in your upstairs kitchen, but choosing to serve on the lower level,” Abby says. The butler’s pantry is also a popular spot for a secondary dishwasher. “No matter where you place it, it’s always nice to have a second unit for overflow.”

Is it time for a kitchen remodel? You can schedule a free consultation with Abby. For more home design inspiration, follow Normandy Remodeling on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and TikTok for regular photos and tips, or check out our photo gallery of past projects. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get updates on projects, for continued inspiration.