Does the fridge fit
Choosing the Right Refrigerator: Avoid Common Mistakes
When designing your kitchen, choosing the right refrigerator isn’t just about picking the one you like — it’s about making sure it fits your space and your layout. From size and depth to door clearance, there are a few crucial factors people often overlook, leading to frustrating (and expensive) installation issues later on.
In this post, we’ll walk you through what to consider when selecting a refrigerator, so it fits seamlessly into your kitchen.
Samsung freestanding fridge and freezer
Freestanding Refrigerators: What to know
Let's say you've chosen a freestanding refrigerator. You’ve allocated a space for it in your design — so what could go wrong?
Here’s what you need to double-check:
Width: If your fridge is 900mm wide, allow an extra 50–120mm around it for proper fit and ventilation.
Height: Leave a minimum 50mm gap before any cabinet starts above the fridge.
Depth: Standard benchtops are about 600mm deep, but many modern fridges are 700mm or deeper. This means the fridge can stick out awkwardly into the kitchen space.
Tip:
Design your benchtop, cabinetry, or pantry depth to suit your fridge. Appliances should be considered first — not after the cabinetry is drawn!
Pro tip: Many of my clients are happy with their current fridge and see no reason to purchase a new one at the time of the renovation. I always encourage them to check the dimensions of future models they might want to use so we can make a cavity to fit. Don’t go overboard, though — a fridge twice the size of your current one might not be practical.
Key Considerations for Proper Fit
Door Clearance:
Make sure the refrigerator door can open fully.
If pushed too far into a cavity, doors might not swing open enough, restricting drawer and shelf access inside.
Always test door clearance in the showroom before purchasing.
Measure Twice, Install Once:
Before you buy, measure your space carefully — width, depth, height, and door swing are all critical.
In the Avenue house, we left equal space around the sides and top of the refrigerator.
Integrated Refrigerators: What You Must Know
An integrated refrigerator is fully built into your cabinetry for a seamless, custom look.
Key features of integrated fridges:
Hidden behind cabinetry panels for a sleek appearance.
Custom cabinetry is designed specifically for the fridge model.
Requires grills or vents to allow proper ventilation (often located below the fridge).
Not easily removable — replacing it can involve cabinetry modifications.
In Oak house, we used an integrated Fisher and Paykel french door fridge with a large pull out drawer. Notice the grills below the drawer. This is the key giveaway an appliance is hidden there
Freestanding vs Integrated Refrigerators: Quick Comparison
| Freestanding Refrigerator | Integrated Refrigerator | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | More cost-effective | Higher cost (cabinetry and appliance) |
| Installation | Quick and easy to install | Custom installation required |
| Flexibility | Easy to move or replace | Hard to move or replace |
| Look | Appliance is visible | Hidden, seamless design |
| Customization | Limited | Highly customized for a clean look |
| Repairability | Simple repairs or replacements, minimal disruption | Repairs are harder and costlier, may involve removing cabinetry |
Choosing the right fridge is about more than style — it’s about getting the details right so your kitchen works beautifully for years to come. Whether you go for a freestanding or integrated model, planning carefully around dimensions, ventilation, and future access will save you stress (and money) down the track. If you’re feeling unsure or want an expert eye over your plans, see below the two ways our clients love to work with us.
Need help getting your kitchen design right?
Book a Design Intensive — a one-off, in-depth consultation where we’ll review your plans together, check all your key details, and ensure everything is perfectly aligned before you build.
Looking for a more customised design?
If you're seeking a bespoke interior design that’s uniquely yours, Miri Interiors specialises in creating luxury, full-home and kitchen transformations tailored to you and your lifestyle. From custom kitchens to entire home renovations, I craft spaces that reflect your personality, enhance your daily living, and stand the test of time.
