The Definition of a Kitchen Suite

Appliance Kitchen Suites

• "Kitchen suite" is a term commonly used by appliance manufacturers. In this instance, a kitchen suite refers collectively to the refrigerator, oven/range, dishwasher and microwave. While appliance manufacturers sell these machines separately, they market kitchen suites as a way to purchase appliances that complement each other, and often offer discounts for the purchase of suites.

Appliance Suite Levels

• Kitchen-appliance suites are available in various grade and price packages. The most economical level is usually called the “regular” or “essential” kitchen suite. The next kitchen-suite level is more expensive and includes more upgrades. The top-of-the-line kitchen suites are high-priced appliances, usually referred to as a “power suite,” or the “high-performance” or “gold” line, and include such features as stainless-steel microwave interiors, double-ovens and refrigerators with French doors. Some manufacturers also offer energy-efficient suites.

Hotel Kitchen Suites

• Hotels, resorts, inns and other establishments that provide temporary lodging also use the term "kitchen suite." In this setting, the phrase refers to accommodations that include full kitchens. In addition to kitchen appliances, hotel kitchen suites also include a sink, coffee pot, cookware, dishware, glassware, utensils and kitchen towels.

Architectural Kitchen Suites

• Designers and architects also use "kitchen suites" to describe their kitchen creations. In architectural and design terms, "kitchen suites" is broad in meaning -- encompassing floor, countertop and wall-surface materials such as wood or stone, in addition to built-in shelves, and custom-designed tables and chairs. Appliances are included in these kitchen suites as well.

Other Considerations

• Across the board, stainless steel has emerged as the most popular type of kitchen suite. Kitchen-appliance suites market stainless steel for their economical, mid-range and top-of-the line offerings. Hotels emphasize stainless-steel appliances and sinks in their rooms. Designers and architects choose stainless-steel appliances to put in their kitchen suites, and some use stainless steel as backdrops, countertops and kitchen hoods. According to Andrea Enns, an interior design expert at Stanton Homes, design trends indicate that stainless steel will be a good choice for years to come.