When it comes to modern kitchen design, the column refrigerator is quickly becoming a must-have. Sleek, efficient, and endlessly customizable, these tall, single-purpose units give homeowners total control and flexibility over the layout and look of their appliances. Whether you’re upgrading a luxury kitchen or designing from scratch, choosing the right refrigerator column can make all the difference in both function and style.
In this guide, we’ll break down what a column refrigerator is, why so many people love them, and the best options available right now, including top picks from the best brands on the market.
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Shop RefrigeratorsWhat is a Column Refrigerator?
A column refrigerator is a full-height refrigerator that’s dedicated solely to refrigeration, with no freezer attached. Instead of a traditional fridge-freezer combo, you pair a refrigerator column with a matching freezer column to create a high-end, built-in look that is customized to your needs.
These units are designed for flexibility. You can install them side by side, position them separately, or integrate them behind custom cabinetry for a completely seamless design. Because they come in a variety of sizes and finishes (including panel ready column refrigerators), they fit beautifully into both contemporary and classic kitchens.
The big draw? Design freedom. A column refrigerator gives you the power to decide how much fridge and freezer space you need and exactly where you want it.
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If you’ve ever opened a packed refrigerator and thought, “I wish I had more space just for fresh food,” a column refrigerator might be your answer. These units are ideal for:
- Design flexibility: You can pair a column refrigerator and freezer together or separate them for a cleaner layout.
- Custom kitchens: Panel ready column refrigerators disappear behind cabinet fronts for a built-in look that matches your kitchen’s design.
- Professional-level storage: Many models include humidity-controlled drawers, air purification, and advanced temperature management.
- Efficient organization: With tall, single-door access, you can see everything at a glance, with no awkward bending or digging around.
They’re especially popular in high-end kitchen remodels and luxury builds, where the goal is a flawless visual line and tailored storage configuration.
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Types of Column Refrigerators
Not all column refrigerators are built the same. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types and configurations you’ll find:
Built-In vs. Freestanding
- Built-in column refrigerators are installed flush with cabinetry for a custom look. Most models on this list fall into that category.
- Freestanding versions exist but are less common; they stand out slightly from cabinets, much like a traditional refrigerator.
Integrated and Panel Ready
A panel ready column refrigerator lets you attach cabinet doors directly to the appliance, blending it perfectly into your kitchen. Many luxury brands, like Sub-Zero, Thermador, and Monogram, specialize in these models.
Left Door vs. Right Door
Depending on your layout, you can choose a left-hinge or right-hinge model to make daily access easier. When pairing refrigerator and freezer columns, most homeowners mirror them for symmetry.
Each size provides the same premium cooling features but with different storage capacities and layout flexibility.
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The Best Column Refrigerators for Every Kitchen
Here’s a lineup of some of the best column refrigerators available today, each with its own style, capacity, and standout features.
Sub-Zero® Designer 17.3 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Column Refrigerator
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Few brands define luxury refrigeration like Sub-Zero. This Sub-Zero column refrigerator combines precision cooling with unmatched design flexibility. The 17.3 cu. ft. capacity is ideal for mid-size kitchens, and the panel ready finish makes it easy to integrate seamlessly with cabinetry.
Expect Sub-Zero’s signature freshness features: the NASA-inspired air purification system, microprocessor control, and magnetic door seal to lock in temperature stability. It’s also designed for complete integration, sitting perfectly flush with cabinetry for a truly built-in aesthetic. Add a matching freezer column to create a custom look that’s pure luxury from every angle.
Thermador® Freedom® 30-In. 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator
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The Thermador column refrigerator line is all about innovation and convenience. This 30-inch Freedom® model features ThermaFresh® drawers for humidity-controlled storage and Open Door Assist, which lets you gently push the door to open, perfect for handle-free designs.
Its ENERGYSTAR® certification ensures energy-efficient performance, while the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity makes it smart-home ready. The Freedom® Collection’s sleek lighting system brightens the interior evenly, making it easy to find ingredients. This model is perfect for homeowners who want top-tier technology without compromising on minimalist design.
Monogram® 21.1 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator
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This Monogram column refrigerator brings elegance and engineering together. With over 21 cu. ft. of storage, this 36” refrigerator column is one of the largest on this list, perfect for families or entertainers.
It includes advanced features like Wi-Fi remote monitoring, LED lighting, and finely crafted glass shelving. The interior is built with soft-close drawers and a temperature management system that adapts automatically to your usage habits. For those creating a designer kitchen, Monogram’s premium materials and craftsmanship deliver that upscale, furniture-quality feel.
Bertazzoni 17.4 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
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If Italian craftsmanship is your style, this Bertazzoni column refrigerator delivers a perfect mix of form and function. With 17.4 cu. ft. of capacity and a counter-depth design, it balances space and sophistication beautifully.
It’s panel ready, so you can customize it to fit any kitchen, and the digital controls make it easy to fine-tune the temperature for specific foods. Inside, LED sidewall lighting provides bright, uniform illumination that feels premium every time you open the door. It’s a smart pick for design-forward homeowners who want dependable performance and a distinctive European touch.
Bosch Benchmark® Series 30-In. 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
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The Bosch Benchmark Series is known for quiet performance and sleek design. This refrigerator column offers 16.8 cu. ft. of storage, ENERGYSTAR® efficiency, and a MultiAirFlow™ system that ensures consistent cooling from top to bottom.
The stainless steel interior and door bins give it a premium, durable feel, while the soft-close doors add a satisfying touch of quality. Its flexibility makes it an excellent match for modern kitchens. You can pair it with a matching freezer column for a unified, built-in aesthetic.
Frigidaire Professional® 33-In. 18.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built-In Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
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This Frigidaire column refrigerator offers pro-level performance at a more approachable price point. This 33-inch model gives you plenty of storage and a clean stainless steel look.
It features CrispSeal® Plus crisper drawers, PureAir® filters, and a Smudge-Proof® finish, making it practical for busy households. The LED lighting and even temperature distribution help keep everything from produce to leftovers perfectly chilled. It’s a great choice for homeowners who want a professional-style appliance without the ultra-premium price tag.
SKS 24” 13.9 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator
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Compact yet powerful, this 24 inch column refrigerator from Signature Kitchen Suite is perfect for smaller kitchens or as a secondary unit in a butler’s pantry or bar area.
It features Wi-Fi-enabled ThinQ® technology, ENERGYSTAR® certification, and a panel ready design for custom installation. Despite its compact size, it offers adjustable shelving, smooth drawer glides, and precise temperature control. It’s ideal for apartments, secondary prep areas, or anyone who values smart, efficient cooling in a refined package.
A column refrigerator is a design choice that elevates your kitchen’s look and functionality. Whether you want the prestige of a Sub-Zero, the innovation of a Thermador, or the value of a Frigidaire, there’s a model built for your style and space.
Explore the full lineup at Orville’s Home Appliances and find the column refrigerator that fits your dream kitchen perfectly.
Column Refrigerator FAQs
Yes, if design flexibility, style, and performance matter to you. A column refrigerator offers more customization and a high-end built-in look that standard models can’t match. They also let you balance fridge and freezer space based on your actual needs.
LG itself doesn’t have a major line of column refrigerators, but its premium brand, Signature Kitchen Suite, does. The Signature Kitchen Suite SKSCR2401P is a great example of a compact, smart, panel-ready option with advanced cooling tech.
Absolutely. Thermador column refrigerators are known for their high performance, smart design, and flexibility. The Thermador Freedom® T30IR905SP stands out for its humidity control, push-to-open door assist, and precision cooling.
If you’re shopping for a refrigerator column in Northern New York, check out the selection at Orville’s Home Appliances. They carry all the models featured in this guide, from Sub-Zero and Thermador to Frigidaire and Monogram, and can help with installation and design planning.
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