Some homeowners aren't particular about their appliances protruding out or the visual flow of their kitchens, but if you want to create a sophisticated and cohesive look built-in appliances can achieve the aesthetic you want. Today, we'd like to talk about the benefits of built-in refrigerators. Why are they so popular and which brands make the best built in refrigerators for modern kitchens?
Additionally, to help you find a built in refrigerator for your kitchen, we've provided reviews on models from brands like Café, Thermador, and more. You'll also find valuable tips on how to style your built in fridge so that it fits beautifully with your cabinetry. Keep reading to find out more!
Explore Refrigeration at Orville's
Find your next favorite refrigerator at Orville's Home Appliances! We have options from leading brands like Thermador, SKS, Sub-Zero, and more!
Shop RefrigeratorsWhat is a Bulit In Refrigerator?
A built-in refrigerator is designed to be installed flush with cabinetry to give you a seamless, high-end look. Unlike freestanding models, it lacks finished sides and is secured in place. These refrigerators are ideal for custom kitchens, to maximize aesthetics and storage efficiency. The best built in refrigerators will have all the features you need but it's important to weigh their pros and cons first before you buy one. Here's what you need to know.
Pros
Custom Fit
Designed to blend with cabinets for a streamlined appearance.
Higher Capacity
Typically taller than standard models to give you more storage.
Luxury Features
Many include advanced cooling technology and smart functions.
Cons
High Cost
More expensive than freestanding models.
Complex Installation
Requires professional setup.
Limited Mobility
Cannot be easily moved or replaced.
Best Brands for Built in Refrigerators
Finding the best built in refrigerators means looking at brands that combine advanced cooling technology, seamless design, and premium materials. Some brands make the best built in refrigerator 42” models or smaller 19-inch units. These industry leaders give you innovative features and customizable options to enhance any kitchen.
KitchenAid
KitchenAid is known for offering premium appliances with a balance of performance and affordability. Their built-in refrigerators provide excellent food preservation with the ExtendFresh Plus Temperature Management System, which monitors and adjusts airflow to keep ingredients fresh. The Under-Shelf Prep Zone maximizes storage space, while the Measured Water Fill ensures precision when dispensing water. With Max Cool for rapid chilling and a FreshFlow™ Air Filter to reduce odors, KitchenAid refrigerators are designed for both convenience and performance. Their models are available in panel-ready and stainless steel finishes, making them a solid choice for those looking for the best built in refrigerator 42 inches wide.
Café
Café appliances focus on customizable aesthetics and high-end features for modern kitchens. Their built-in refrigerators stand out with fully customizable panels and handles, so homeowners can match their fridge to their kitchen design. Café models offer TwinChill evaporators for separate climate control in the fridge and freezer, to keep food fresher for longer. Features like auto-fill water dispensers, LED lighting, and Wi-Fi connectivity provide convenience and smart home integration. Café also makes the best built in refrigerator 48” counter-depth and full-depth designs, for a range of kitchen layouts.
Thermador
Thermador is a luxury brand recognized for its high-performance refrigeration technology. Thermador built-in refrigerators feature special hinges for a flush, panel-ready look. ThermaFresh drawers control temperature and humidity for optimal food storage, while Open Door Assist provides hands-free access. Thermador refrigerators also give you internal water dispensers, Wi-Fi connectivity, and stainless steel interiors, so they're a top choice for those seeking premium quality.
Sub-Zero
A leader in food preservation, Sub-Zero is known for dual refrigeration technology, which keeps the fridge and freezer separate for superior temperature control. Their built-in refrigerator models feature air purification systems to reduce ethylene gas and odors, along with NASA-inspired technology to keep food fresher longer. With panel-ready and stainless steel options, Sub-Zero makes the best built in refrigerators for those who want luxury and performance.
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SKS
SKS focuses on innovation and precision cooling. SKS built-in refrigerators may include a 5-mode convertible drawer, which can be adjusted for different storage needs, from deli items to a full freezer. Precise Preservation technology maintains temperatures within 1°F for superior food freshness, while an internal water dispenser provides filtered water without disrupting the panel-ready design. With eco-friendly materials and ENERGY STAR® certification, SKS delivers a high-end, sustainable refrigeration solution.
5 Best Built In Refrigerators
Now, let’s take a close look at some of our best built in refrigerators.
Café™ 48 in. 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Smart Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop this Café™ Built In Refrigerator
A statement piece in any kitchen, Café’s 48-inch built-in refrigerator blends style with advanced functionality. Its showcase LED lighting highlights your food like a gallery display, while the Climate Controlled Drawer has settings for meat, produce, and citrus. The Auto Fill feature ensures effortless hydration by dispensing the perfect amount of filtered water. Wi-Fi Connect provides real-time alerts for temperature changes or open doors for peace of mind. For those seeking the best 48 inch built in refrigerator, this model delivers a seamless design
Thermador® Freedom® 36 in. 20.6 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator
Shop this Thermador® Built In Refrigerator
Sleek, seamless, and packed with innovation, this Thermador built in refrigerator has a panel-ready column refrigerator design that brings high-end customization to modern kitchens. The premium stainless steel interior enhances durability and style, while Cool Air Flow technology ensures even temperature distribution. SoftClose door hinges and drawers add a smooth, effortless touch to daily use. With Wi-Fi connectivity, users can adjust settings remotely via the Home Connect app. For those seeking the best 36 built in refrigerator, it delivers advanced cooling performance, smart features, and a fully integrated design.
Sub-Zero® PRO 48 in. 30.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Frame Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop this Sub-Zero® Built In Refrigerator
This Subzero built in refrigerator is a stainless-steel side-by-side model that's a powerhouse for food preservation. Dual refrigeration technology maintains precise humidity levels, to keep fresh foods crisp while preventing freezer burn. An advanced air purification system, inspired by NASA technology, scrubs the air of contaminants every 20 minutes. The intuitive touch control panel ensures precise temperature regulation, while the soft-on LED lighting enhances visibility. For those seeking the best built in refrigerators, this Subzero model combines cutting-edge technology, premium materials, and a bold industrial aesthetic.
KitchenAid® 42 in. 25.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop this KitchenAid® Built In Refrigerator
A blend of modern design and smart functionality, this KitchenAid built-in refrigerator is a refined choice for any kitchen. The ExtendFresh Plus Temperature Management System ensures precise cooling, to keep ingredients fresher for longer. Unique features like the Under-Shelf Prep Zone and Sliding Storage Tray maximize space while making food prep effortless. The Max Cool function provides rapid chilling, perfect for stocking up on groceries or cooling drinks quickly.
Signature Kitchen Suite 36 in. 19.3 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop this SKS Built In Refrigerator
Designed for seamless integration, this Signature Kitchen Suite built-in refrigerator offers advanced cooling technology with a refined aesthetic. The 5-mode convertible drawer provides unmatched versatility, letting you switch between five temperature settings to suit your storage needs. This makes it the best built in wine refrigerator because it has ample storage for bottles and you can customize your temperatures. With Precise Preservation, an inverter linear compressor and metal interior maintain consistent temperatures to keep food fresher longer. The internal water dispenser delivers crisp, filtered water without disrupting the sleek panel-ready design.
How to Style a Built In Refrigerator
Not sure how to style your built in refrigerator? This section has some valuable tips that will help you create a stunning kitchen with your built in refrigerator being a show stopper in your kitchen.
Choose a Panel-Ready Design for a Custom Look
A panel-ready built-in refrigerator allows you to match the appliance to your existing cabinetry, so it virtually disappears into the kitchen design. This is ideal for modern, minimalist, or transitional styles where a uniform appearance is preferred. Opt for custom panels that match your cabinet finish or go for a contrasting wood or textured material to create a subtle focal point.
Integrate with Cabinetry for a Flush Fit
To achieve a truly built-in look, ensure the refrigerator aligns perfectly with surrounding cabinetry. A flush inset installation creates a seamless transition and eliminates gaps that can disrupt the visual flow. Work with a cabinetmaker to design custom panels that align with nearby doors and drawers for a uniform appearance.
Use Hardware to Enhance the Design
Select handles or pulls that complement your kitchen’s overall style. For a sleek, contemporary look, choose integrated or recessed handles. If you prefer a more traditional feel, opt for bold, oversized hardware in brass, matte black, or brushed nickel. Matching hardware with other appliances and fixtures maintains a cohesive design.
Built In Refrigerator FAQ
Some of the best built in refrigerators come from Café or Sub-Zero because they have premium designs and advanced cooling technology. Café refrigerators feature customizable hardware and panel-ready options, while the Sub-Zero built in refrigerator stands out with its climate-controlled drawers, precision temperature management, and luxurious stainless steel interiors.
There isn’t a single “best” built-in refrigerator—it depends on your needs. Sub-Zero excels in longevity and food preservation, Thermador offers sleek designs with innovative features, and Monogram balances luxury with high performance, so the best choice comes down to your space, budget, and preferences.
You can find the best built in refrigerators at Orville's Home Appliances, where we carry top models from renowned brands. Our store has a wide selection of designs, to ensure you find the perfect refrigerator to match your kitchen's style and needs. With exceptional customer service, our team is dedicated to guiding you through the selection process, and helping you choose the ideal built-in refrigerator for your home.
Why Trust Orville’s?
For nearly 60 years, Orville's has been synonymous with excellence in the home appliance industry. With eight appliance showrooms and a 110,000-square-foot warehouse stocked with 25,000+ major home appliances, we offer the largest selection of kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances in Western New York.
Every Orville’s location showcases over a 1,000 different appliance models, with products from today’s best appliance brands. From outlet deals to scratch and dent, we always ensure our customers receive the best value with a Low Price Guarantee. A continuously refreshed catalog of in-stock appliances awaits, ready and available for the region’s fastest delivery and installation service. Experience the Orville's difference today. Visit one of our local appliance stores and discover why we're your trusted source for home appliances in Western New York.
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As a family-owned and operated business since 1965, Orville's is deeply rooted in the WNY, Genessee Valley, and Finger Lakes community. We're proud to have been serving the appliance needs of Rochester, Buffalo, and beyond for over five decades, and we remain committed to providing exceptional service and support to our loyal customers. Our appliance specialists are always happy to answer any questions about discount appliances.
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