If you’ve been dreaming of a beautiful custom kitchen that feels seamless from floor to ceiling, chances are you’ve come across the idea of a built in refrigerator. Unlike traditional freestanding models, these refrigerators sit flush with cabinetry and can even be fitted with custom panels, so they virtually disappear.
But while the appeal is real, there are also trade-offs to consider. The pros and cons of built in refrigerators depend on your lifestyle, your space, and your budget. So, is this refrigerator upgrade right for you? Let’s find out as we guide you through every detail, along with built in refrigerator reviews from our top recommendations.
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Go for the high-end look with a built-in refrigerator from Liddiard's Home Furnishings.
Shop Built In Refrigerators3 Reasons to Upgrade to a Built In Refrigerator
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What is the advantage of a built in refrigerator, the answer goes beyond looks. It’s also about performance. Designers and homeowners love built in refrigerators, and there are three main reasons why. Discover the benefits of built in refrigerator models below as we discuss their fortes.
Built In Refrigerators Create Seamless Presentations
The first thing buyers notice about a built in fridge is the way it blends into the kitchen. While standard refrigerators can stick out up to 12” past cabinets and countertops, built in refrigerator depth aligns perfectly with these surfaces for a polished kitchen presentation.
This is where the concept of an integrated refrigerator shines. Instead of a bulky appliance, integrated refrigerators become part of the kitchen itself—almost like a kitchen was built around it. Compared to a built in refrigerator vs. freestanding model, the difference in style is night and day.
A Panel-Ready Built In Fridge Is a Design Dream
Homeowners often ask how to hide kitchen appliances, and more specifically, how to hide a refrigerator. With built in refrigerators, it’s as easy as matching cabinet fronts or fitting one with a custom panel front.
Then again, other homeowners want kitchen pieces that are full of expression. In that case, opt for bold finishes like stainless steel or matte black.
Built In Refrigerators Are Built with Quality
Another major benefit of built in refrigerator models is they’re built by luxury brands. That means higher quality components. That includes reinforced hinges, heavy-duty shelving, advanced compressors, and premium interiors made of metal rather than plastic. Cooling technology also gets a upgrade, taking food preservation to high-end status just like these fridges’ designs.
3 Times to Reconsider a Built In Refrigerator
Unfortunately, not every kitchen layout or lifestyle is suited for an integrated refrigerator. Take a look at these details, which may have you reconsidering.
❌Built In Refrigerators Are Taller
Since built in refrigerators flush with cabinetry, manufactures account for lost capacity with added height. As a result, built in fridges are taller than freestanding models, averaging ins 80 to 84 inches tall versus 64 to 72 inches for traditional designs.
❌There’s an Upcharge to Upgrade to a Built-In Refrigerator
As you might’ve guessed, built in kitchen appliances come at a higher cost. In the case of a built in refrigerator costs, that total can be double or triple the price or a standard fridge. On top of that, the installation of custom panels can increase cost.
❌There Are Also Costs for Installation & Custom Hardware
Beyond the fridge itself, you’ll also need to think about the built in refrigerator installation cost. These units aren’t your standard plug-in-and-you’re-good-to-go like normal fridges. You’ll need a professional installer, which typically adds a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on your setup.
Hardware like handles and trim kits are also sold separately, which may come to a surprise for first-time buyers. All in all, the total cost of a built-in refrigerator can be quite a jump compared to a freestanding model.
Learn More: Side by Side vs French Door Refrigerator: Which is Better?
Recap: Is a Built In Refrigerator Worth It?
At the end of the day, we say if your budget and kitchen layout supports upgrading to a built-in refrigerator, it’s worth leveling up. With that in mind, let’s review the benefits and tradeoffs.
Pros
Clean Presentation
A sleek, seamless look that works organically with its surroundings.
Freedom of Expression
Custom panel built-in fridges let you decide the look.
Luxury Experience
High-quality construction and performance offer an upgrade user experience.
Home Equity
Built-in fridges add resale value to the home.
Cons
High Upfront Cost
Built-in refrigerators come at a premium price.
Added Costs
Installation, hardware, and custom panels add to the overall cost.
Not Universal
Taller dimensions may not suit every user.
Learn More: Whirlpool WRQA59CNKZ Refrigerator Review
6 Best Built In Refrigerators We Recommend
So, who should buy a built-in? If you’re remodeling your kitchen, value premium design, and want appliances that feel fully integrated, then a built-in refrigerator makes sense. But if your budget is tight or you’re not staying in your home long-term, a freestanding model may be the smarter choice. If all the boxes check, and you’re ready to explore your options, check out these models recommended by our experts.
GE Profile 48” 28.7 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This GE Profile Refrigerator
This GE Profile 48-inch built-in refrigerator is a powerhouse of both storage and style. With a generous interior with nearly 28 cubic feet of fridge capacity, it offers plenty of space for families who cook often or like to entertain. Its flush fits parallel with cabinetry for a clean, modern look. Inside, the adjustable shelving and large gallon-sized bins allow you to customize your organization to suit your lifestyle. And with consistent temperature performance, which keeps both fresh and frozen foods in optimal condition, this premium design with practical features is recommended for any high-end kitchen remodel.
⭐Featured GE Profile PSB48YSNSS Review:
“Clean lines, spacious, easily adjusted, quiet, connected, and performing beautifully.”
Café 48” 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
For tech-savvy homeowners, this Café 48-inch smart built-in refrigerator is a top pick. With over 28 cubic feet of space, it combines ample storage with a sleek counter-depth design. One of its most exciting features is Wi-Fi connectivity, which lets you monitor and adjust settings from your phone. Customizable hardware is another major plus, allowing you to swap out handles and finishes for a personalized touch.
When it comes to performance, it’s a beast. Dual cooling zones help maintain perfect conditions for both refrigerated and frozen items, extending food freshness. Buyers praise its balance of advanced technology with timeless style, calling it both beautiful and functional.
⭐Featured Cafe CSB48YP2NS1 Review:
“Just had the refrigerator installed, and it’s beautiful! It has a slight commercial look to it, which is what I wanted!”
KitchenAid® 36” 20.9 Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator with Platinum Interior
Shop This KitchenAid Refrigerator
For a smaller cabinet footprint, we suggest the KitchenAid KBBR336SPS. At just 36” wide, it comes with nearly 21 cubic feet of capacity in a bottom-freezer layout for easy access to fresh and frozen foods. Adjustable shelving and humidity-controlled crispers give you flexibility when organizing produce and perishables. Finished with the exclusive PrintShield stainless steel finish that resists fingerprints, this is a game-changer for in busy households.
KitchenAid® 48" 29.4 Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator features Exterior Water and Ice Dispenser with Measured Fill
Shop This KitchenAid 48" Refrigerator
Expansive with over 29 cubic feet of storage volume, the KitchenAid KBSD748SPS has room for everything from weekly groceries to party platters. But it’s also intelligently designed, from the exterior water and ice dispenser equipped with a measured fill option to state-of-the-art Preserva Cooling. Inside, the flexible shelving and spacious bins make it easy to organize everything from produce to bulk items. With its combination of massive capacity, modern features, and polished design, this KitchenAid built in refrigerator is a dream for larger families or avid entertainers.
KitchenAid® 42" 24.2Cu. Ft. PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In French Door Refrigerator
Shop This KitchenAid Side by Side Refrigerator
A beautiful built-in French door refrigerator has all the right elegance and practicality to make any kitchen feel high-end. At 24.2 cubic feet, the KBFN542SPS is spacious without feeling overwhelming, perfect for medium-sized kitchens. The French door layout provides easy access to both fresh and frozen foods, while the wide shelving accommodates platters and large containers. Inside, even temperature control across compartments ensures consistent food preservation. A timeless design combined and reliable performance? That’s what makes this KitchenAid refrigerator is a solid choice.
Café™ 36 in. 20.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Shop This Cafe Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
This Café 36-inch built-in bottom freezer refrigerator is perfect for kitchens where space efficiency matters. The bottom freezer design provides easy to access everyday items in the fridge without constant bending, while large crispers and flexible shelving on the inside provide room for produce, drinks, and more. We also love its smart technology that allows you to adjust settings remotely, adding convenience to your daily routine.
⭐Featured Cafe CIC36RP2VS1 Review:
“The design is great, and I changed my hardware to incorporate the brass in my kitchen. I love that the middle drawer is configurable. Sometimes I need it as a freezer, and sometimes I don't. I love using the app. It makes operating the refrigerator so easy.”
Learn More: Cafe Refrigerators - Pros and Cons
To get the true dream kitchen look, a built in refrigerator is a must-have. The good news is that at Liddiard Home Furnishings, you can explore a full collection of integrated refrigerators along with freestanding models to help you make a final decision. And with our helpful pros on-site, you can shop with expert guidance, knowing we’re here to help you make the best decision for your budget and lifestyle. So, if you’re wondering where to buy built in refrigerator brands in Tooele, stop on by today to learn more!
Why Trust Liddiard Home Furnishings?
For over 65 years, Liddiard Home Furnishings has been providing Utah with premium home furnishings. This family-owned business has worked to deliver a better kind of shopping experience to the greater Salt Lake City area. Whether it’s the carefully laid out showroom or the outstanding customer service, when you shop at Liddiard’s, you’ll feel like family. The team at Liddiard has crafted a catalog full of incredible products made by brands with reputations for quality. Shop online or visit our showroom to discover what makes Liddiard Home Furnishings so unique.
Shop Built-In Refrigerators at Liddiard Home Furnishings
For the home furnishings you need, visit Liddiard Home Furnishings in Tooele, UT. You’ll find the best prices when you shop refrigerators online. Check out Liddiard reviews, and if you have questions, our friendly product experts are always happy to help you compare the pros and cons of a built in refrigerator — whether you call us at 435-882-0964 or use our online chat feature. Visit our Tooele showroom today!
Learn More: 7 Best Counter Depth Refrigerator Picks