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800-570-3355 Cooking Appliance Trends 2026
Innovation, Customization, and the Future of the Kitchen
The major appliance world is in the midst of a renaissance. Cooking technology is moving far beyond stainless steel basics to deliver faster performance, smarter guidance, striking style, and even outdoor luxury. From induction innovation to AI-powered recipe assistance, this year’s releases point toward a future where the kitchen is more personalized, more sustainable, and more fun to use.
Below we break down the most important appliance trends, innovations by category, and key brands shaping the conversation.
Induction Cooking Innovations
Induction cooking has been gaining momentum for years, but the wave of 2025-2026 product launches shows that it’s no longer a niche technology — it’s the new mainstream.
- Samsung’s Extractor Induction Hob: One of the most talked-about introductions, this induction cooktop integrates ventilation directly into the surface, eliminating the need for an overhead hood. For open-plan kitchens and islands, this is a genuine game-changer. Stay tuned for an official release in the coming months.
- Thermador continues to refine “freedom induction” cooktops, where pans can be placed anywhere on the surface. Expect to see more flexibility, improved zone detection, and expanded cooking modes.
- Bosch and Fisher & Paykel are pushing efficiency: smarter sensors, faster boil times, and better energy use monitoring.
Recommended Products:
36″ Induction Cooktop with full-surface Freedom® Induction technology and 56 inductor elements that let you place cookware anywhere.
36" Induction Cooktop with FlexInduction® and Home Connect integration.
36″ Induction Cooktop with precision temperature control, PowerBoost™ for rapid heating, and GentleHeat™ for delicate tasks.
48″ Induction Smart Range with seven induction zones and a spacious 8.7 cu. ft. Dual VertiCross™ convection oven—Wolf leads the way with large-format induction cooking.
What makes induction innovation so compelling in 2026 is the combination of sustainability, design (sleek, flush installs) and performance (near-instant heating, precise temperature control). For many consumers, it’s now the default choice when remodeling.
Trending now: Flush installs, large “freedom” surfaces, and induction/ventilation combos.
Sous-Vide, Steam, and Smarter Cooking Technology
Precision cooking isn’t just for restaurants anymore.
A precision, low-temperature cooking method, sous-vide delivers chef-level control for perfectly even, tender results. We expect sous vide to soon become table stakes in premium cooking appliances, as SKS and Miele already lead the pack with built-in sous-vide modes in their ranges and wall ovens.
Becoming the go-to for healthier cooking and better bread, steam ovens use moisture-based heat to cook food gently and evenly, preserving flavor, color, and nutrients without drying or crisping. Fisher & Paykel and Miele continue to expand full steam and combi-steam options.
Frigidaire Gallery has drawn major attention with its slide-in range that doubles as a 750-degree pizza oven — no pre-heat required. By claiming to “take away 15 countertop appliances in one,” Frigidaire is making a bold play to capture the family cooking and entertaining market.
Recommended Products:
48” Pro Range with built-in sous vide, induction, and gas burners all in one platform.
30” Combi-Steam Oven with full steam + convection + broil with wireless food probe.
24" Steam Oven with 9 oven functions.
30” Masterpiece Steam Double Oven with steam convection.
Trending now: Steam and sous-vide for healthier cooking, plus “no pre-heat” ovens for convenience.
Entertaining Essentials: Double Ovens, Warming Drawers & Speed Ovens
The trend toward kitchens as entertaining hubs continues.
A must-have if you’re preparing dishes with different temperature and cooking requirements.Wolf, Viking, and Thermador are adding capacity and flexibility with large dual ovens that handle everyday meals and dinner parties alike.
Still seen as a luxury add-on, but increasingly common in premium remodels. Bosch, Gaggenau, and Miele are innovating with humidity controls and multi-temperature settings that make them more useful than ever.
A speed oven combines the quick cooking of a microwave with the browning and crisping of a convection oven, drastically reducing meal prep time without sacrificing quality. It’s ideal for busy households or small kitchens, offering versatile, high-performance cooking in a compact design. We recommend the Wolf Dropdown Microwave Speed Oven, equipped with convection, microwave, and broil in one.
Trending now: Appliances that enhance everyday routines, like an all-in-one speed oven for quick meal prep and a warming drawer to keep dishes ready-to-serve.
Customization Beyond Color: Personality Meets AI
Personalization is no longer just about knobs and panels. It’s now about both aesthetic choices and smart technology that adapts to the way you cook.
- Colorful Statements:
Bluestar, ILVE, La Cornue, and Viking’s Color Collection let consumers design kitchens as bold as their wardrobes. Matte greens, deep blues, and graphite shades are set to stay on trend in 2026.
- Connected Ecosystems:
Bosch’s Home Connectand LG’s ThinQ make smart appliances part of a whole-home network. Expect more Matter-enabled compatibility in 2026 for seamless integration.
- AI Cooking Assistants:
Samsung, LG, and SKS are leaning heavily into AI. Expect appliances that recognize ingredients, suggest recipes, set temperatures automatically, and walk you through step-by-step cooking. Miele’s CookAssist™ is already paving the way.
Recommended Products with AI:
- Samsung BESPOKE 30” Induction Smart Range with AI Home
- Miele 36” Induction Range with CookAssist™ Technology
- SKS Double Smart Wall Oven with GourmetAI™
Outdoor Cooking: The Next Frontier
Outdoor kitchens are evolving from grills on a patio to full suites of appliances. Here’s what’s on the docket for 2026:
- Miele’s Dreams Outdoor Kitchen: A modular system launching in 2026, with the Fire Pro IQ gas grill that automatically regulates temperature across four zones.
- Bertazzoni, Kucht, and JennAir: Each is making plays in the outdoor cooking space. Expect stylish modular setups with integrated refrigeration, burners, and pizza ovens.
- Hybrid Grills and Pizza Ovens: Multi-fuel (gas, charcoal, pellet) appliances are gaining traction, while pizza ovens remain the outdoor “must-have.”
- Durability Meets Luxury: Expect weatherproof finishes, seamless design integration with indoor kitchens, and even AI-assisted outdoor grilling.
New Product Releases to Watch
Here are some of the most exciting appliances hitting the market:
- Frigidaire Gallery Stone-Baked Pizza Collection– Gas, electric, or induction with a 750-degree pizza oven, zero pre-heat, and 15-in-1 functionality.
- Samsung Extractor Induction Hob – Induction plus integrated ventilation.
- Wolf Dropdown Microwave Speed Oven – Compact but powerful, with multi-mode cooking.
- Miele Fire Pro IQ Grill – Smart, modular outdoor grill launching with the Dreams kitchen.
- SKS Sous Vide Pro Range – Enhanced integrated sous vide drawer with precision controls.
- Bosch Matter-Ready Refrigeration and Ovens – Smart home interoperability coming to major cooking appliances.
Regional Cooking Trends
South Central (Houston, TX)
Houston’s appliance market is defined by scale, confidence, and performance. The city’s love for outdoor living fuels one of the strongest outdoor-kitchen segments in the country, with brands like Viking, Lynx, and Coyote leading the charge. Texans’ affinity for high-heat cooking and bold design translates seamlessly indoors, where professional-style gas ranges remain the centerpiece of most kitchens.
Brands such as BlueStar, Monogram, Thermador, and Viking continue to resonate with performance-driven homeowners, while European imports like Gaggenau, Bertazzoni, ILVE, and Smeg are gaining momentum for their design-forward appeal. Meanwhile, value-oriented “pro-look” options such as Thor capture a growing segment of buyers seeking premium performance without the luxury price tag.
Houston’s kitchen landscape reflects the region’s broader ethos—durability, craftsmanship, and power. Even as national consumer spending moderates, luxury retail in Houston remains resilient, signaling sustained demand for premium home investments.
From an energy and product mix standpoint, Gas (43%) and Electric (29%) are evenly balanced, while Dual Fuel (19%) outpaces the national average, reflecting the state’s diverse and flexible energy landscape. Induction (10%) adoption is growing steadily, particularly in newer, high-efficiency developments focused on sustainability and grid resilience.
When it comes to appliance configuration, Ranges (66%) remain the dominant choice but sit slightly below the national benchmark, as Cooktops (34%) gain popularity. The state’s larger kitchen footprints allow for flexible layouts—many homeowners opt for separate cooktops to create customized, functional spaces without moving entirely away from traditional ranges.
Trend Highlights:
- Pro-style gas ranges dominate.
- Performance-driven appliance brands are the go-to.
- Outdoor kitchens remain a defining feature.
- Modular layouts with combi wall ovens and cooktops on the rise.
Southeast (Atlanta)
The Atlanta appliance market is characterized by rapid growth, aspiration, and a clear move toward larger, more expressive kitchens. Homeowners are increasingly viewing their kitchens as both entertaining spaces and design showcases. This shift is fueling strong demand for double ovens and warming drawers, which have evolved from luxury add-ons to near-essentials in higher-end remodels and new builds.
The growing appetite for large-format ranges (48″ and 60″) underscores how Atlanta homeowners are investing in bigger kitchens and bolder design statements, signaling an upgrade-driven market on the rise. Microwave drawers are also trending in this market, marking a move from traditional over-the-range setups to a more seamless “hidden” appliance approach.
From a usage perspective, Gas (45%) continues to lead, with Electric (21%) and Dual Fuel (23%) both playing meaningful roles in a transitional energy mix that balances tradition with innovation. Induction (11%), though still a niche choice, is gaining traction among urban professionals who value its precision, speed, and energy efficiency—particularly in smaller, high-end spaces.
When it comes to configuration, Cooking Ranges (61%) remain the primary choice, though Cooktops (39%) are used more frequently than the national average. This pattern reflects Atlanta’s evolution toward design-forward kitchens that still retain the practicality and familiarity of ranges.
Brands such as Wolf, Monogram, Café, Viking, and ZLINE remain top choices in the region, capturing a layered demand for luxury appliances with professional-grade performance.
Trend Summary:
- Expanding, luxury-oriented kitchens with dramatic visual and functional appeal.
- Rising demand for gas and induction; gradual decline in electric models.
- Continued growth in double ovens, warming drawers, and microwave drawers.
- A balance of designer aesthetics and professional performance
South Florida (Miami)
The South Florida appliance market reflects a contemporary, design-driven ethos, defined by streamlined aesthetics, modern technology, and a growing demand for elegant, built-in solutions.
Outdoor kitchens are a major growth area, driven by the state’s year-round entertaining culture and indoor–outdoor lifestyle. Brands such as DCS, Lynx, XO, and Viking remain top choices for outdoor kitchens.
For indoor kitchens, the brand landscape underscores Florida’s upscale trajectory: Thermador, Wolf, Miele, Bertazzoni, Gaggenau, Fisher & Paykel, Viking, and Monogram dominate. Samsung continues to be a strong choice for those looking for sleek tech-forward appliances at a sharp price point.
The power mix is shifting toward electric and induction, supported by Florida’s electric-heavy infrastructure. Electric leads at 55%, well above the national average, while Gas (19%) remains comparatively low. This balance highlights a clear preference for clean, efficient systems suited to Florida’s climate. Induction (18%) is performing exceptionally well—its cool operation and precision cooking appeal to both design-minded homeowners and energy-conscious builders.
From a configuration standpoint, Cooktops have become the go-to choice. With Ranges (52%) falling well below the national average (70%), Cooktops (48%) now account for nearly double the typical U.S. share (30%). This shift shows Floridians’ preference for modular kitchen setups, often pairing cooktops with wall ovens to achieve seamless integration and visual harmony in open-plan homes.
Mid-size cooking formats (36″ and 48″) are trending upward as buyers seek flexible, high-impact appliances that serve as visual centerpieces in open, modern layouts. Combi wall ovens are also on the rise, offering advanced features and space efficiency for consumers prioritizing multifunctionality.
Trend Summary:
- Strong growth in outdoor kitchens and design-led home cooking spaces.
- Market led by European luxury brands and induction innovation.
- Gas retains prestige but trails electric and induction in usage.
- Mid-size formats (36″/48″) and combi wall ovens rising rapidly.
- Cooktops approaching parity with ranges.
Mid-Atlantic (Washington, D.C. / Virginia Area)
The Mid-Atlantic appliance market—centered around Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia—is defined by efficiency, precision, and smart integration. This is a region where time-conscious professionals and design-savvy homeowners prioritize functionality and technology in equal measure.
Smart and functional appliances are driving demand. Combi wall ovens are a standout trend, rapidly gaining traction as homeowners prioritize multifunctional cooking solutions that complement smart kitchens. Steam ovens, speed ovens, and connected appliances are also especially popular among busy households seeking convenience without compromise. Brands such as Fisher & Paykel, Bosch, and Miele stand out for their technology-driven innovation and strong reputation for reliability.
While other popular brands like Viking, Wolf, Thermador, GE, Samsung, Bertazzoni, BlueStar, and Frigidaire capture both ends of the spectrum: luxury buyers trading up to professional-grade equipment, and mainstream consumers embracing technology and value-driven performance.
From a fuel and configuration standpoint, the region shows a balanced distribution: Gas (40%) and Electric (31%) remain leading categories, while Dual Fuel (13%) and Induction (16%) slightly exceed national averages, underscoring diversification and growing eco-consciousness. Induction, in particular, is gaining momentum in suburban developments where energy-efficient design is a priority. Yet, large-format gas ranges (48″ and 60″) continue to hold prestige in high-end remodels—proof that even in a tech-forward market, power and versatility still resonate.
In terms of appliance setup, the area mirrors national norms with Ranges (71%) and Cooktops (29%), reflecting a balance between traditional kitchen designs featuring statement ranges, and more modern layouts with cooktops and wall ovens.
Trend Summary:
- Strong demand for smart, connected, and multifunctional appliances (steam, speed, and combi ovens).
- Growing adoption of induction as energy efficiency and precision cooking gain appeal.
- Large-format gas and dual-fuel ranges retain prestige in luxury kitchens.
- Balanced mix of range and cooktop configurations driven by renovation diversity.
- Overall convergence of technology, efficiency, and modern design defines the region.
Northeast (Greater New York City Area)
In the Greater New York City region, the appliance market reflects the city itself—fast-moving, style-conscious, and deeply passionate about food. Space may be limited, but ambition is not. From compact urban condos to expansive suburban estates, New Yorkers are designing kitchens that celebrate both culinary innovation and traditional cooking craft.
Professional performance is the north star here. The city’s chef-inspired culture has fueled a surge in 60″ professional gas ranges, turning these appliances into architectural centerpieces and culinary statements. This upsizing trend speaks to the city’s refusal to compromise on size or capability—even when space is tight. At the same time, appliances featuring sous-vide functionality are capturing the attention of serious home cooks and food enthusiasts, blending restaurant-grade precision with residential sophistication.
Energy & Configuration Trends:
Fuel mix: Gas remains dominant at 68%, far exceeding the national average, while Electric 16%, Dual Fuel 8%, and Induction 8% round out the landscape. Induction, though still emerging, is gaining traction in new high-rise developments emphasizing energy efficiency and clean design.
Setup: Ranges 78%, Cooktops 22%—a clear reflection of New Yorkers’ preference for all-in-one, space-maximizing solutions that deliver both power and efficiency.
Trending Brands:
Wolf, Miele, Gaggenau, Bertazzoni, Thermador, ILVE, Fisher & Paykel, Bosch, and GE remain central to the market—an eclectic mix that balances European craftsmanship with American performance heritage.
Trend Summary:
Sous-vide cooking takes hold as a hallmark of culinary precision and innovation.
A pronounced upsizing trend toward 60″+ professional gas ranges as prestige centerpieces.
Gas continues to anchor the region’s culinary identity, even as efficiency gains appeal.
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