BY Pallavi Pinakin

Although robots that can cook six course meals at the touch of a button aren’t the norm, kitchen tech of today is virtually unrecognisable. Since technology prevails in everyday life these days, it is only natural that kitchens are increasingly futuristic too. Here are some of the coolest upgrades in the market.

SMART GADGETS Kitchen appliances are now able to combine the functions of several different machines – much like smartphones. For example, intelligent refrigerators go far beyond basic cooling; they can store separate food items at various predetermined temperatures.

Fridges can also check for ingredients that need restocking and sync with an app on your phone to update weekly shopping lists automatically. What a relief for those who run out of milk, butter or eggs at the most inconvenient times!

The high-tech interactive robot is a key fixture in many new-age kitchens. It’s rapidly making ovens, frying pans, grills and blenders redundant while proving to be an effective one stop solution for diverse cooking needs.

Many gadgets are now also designed to be self-cleaning. Microwaves and dishwashers come with a dedicated cleanse button while a simple swipe is all that induction hobs require.

Modern kitchen tech is also increasingly eco-friendly. Drained water from sinks can be diverted into gardens and food waste automatically composted into pellets by smart rubbish bins.

HYGIENIC FOCUS The pandemic has increased the demand for many futuristic elements in the kitchen such as touchless technology and easy to clean surfaces. Handle free faucets can now monitor mineral levels and purify water before dispensing it.

Countertops made of organic bacteria-resistant materials are all the rage. Sinks and drainage made using antimicrobial metal alloys such as brass are another way to keep your kitchen germfree while staying with the trend.

OPTIMAL SPACES With a growing number of people working from home, the need for additional space is more pronounced than ever. Open kitchens provide the perfect solution by maximising space without compromising on function.

As ordering and stocking groceries in bulk is now the norm, multi-shelf pantries and larders are becoming a standard component in newer kitchen designs – as are internal storage elements such as ‘D-trays’ and LeMans corner units.

Placing fridges or ovens within cabinetry is another great way to reduce clutter and increase one’s work surface. Kitchen islands also help utilise empty space and provide a stylish workstation with plenty of extra storage.