Designing an Efficient Double Oven Kitchen

More kitchen designs are incorporating double ovens with the growing popularity of entertaining. There's nothing better than having two ovens to cook multiple dishes at varying temperatures when preparing a big holiday feast or dinner party. Double ovens provide extra capacity and flexibility for avid home cooks and bakers. But effectively integrating double ovens into your kitchen requires careful planning.

When designing a kitchen around double ovens, there are several factors to consider regarding placement, layout, aesthetics, and functionality. Proper positioning and sufficient clearance between the ovens and other appliances is crucial. You'll also want to select oven styles and finishes that align with your desired kitchen decor. Understanding the available oven features and technologies can further enhance your culinary experience.

Benefits of a Double Oven Kitchen

The primary advantage of having two ovens is the ability to cook more food at once, or bake and roast different dishes simultaneously at optimal temperatures. Double ovens are a multitasker's dream, providing greater efficiency and organization for complex recipes and menu planning. You can easily bake a casserole in one oven while roasting vegetables at a higher temp in the other.

With double the oven space, you can accommodate larger batch cooking and holiday meals without cramming multiple pans into one oven. Many cooks appreciate having a separate oven just for baking. You can bake cupcakes up top while roasting a chicken below. Double ovens also allow you to cook main courses and desserts together without flavor transfer.

In addition to increased capacity, double ovens offer more functionality with features like convection baking, broiling, and self-cleaning modes. Some units have convection fans in both ovens for faster, more even heating. Having two independently controlled ovens gives you greater flexibility and precision.

Considerations for Double Oven Cabinets

While double ovens provide obvious advantages, there are some considerations to weigh. Installing double ovens typically requires customized cabinetry which can increase costs. You may need to rework electrical or gas lines as well. Double ovens are wider and heavier, so your cabinetry must be designed to handle the size and weight.

Since double ovens occupy more space, they can potentially limit storage and counter area in smaller kitchens. You'll want to ensure you have enough room for the ovens without sacrificing essential workspace and storage. Careful measurement and planning are key when incorporating double ovens into your overall kitchen layout and work triangle.

Double Oven Placement Options

When planning your kitchen design, one of the first decisions is where to position the double ovens. Typical placements include integrated cabinetry, side-by-side built-ins, or stacked ovens. Each configuration has its own spatial considerations.

Integrated Double Ovens

Integrating double ovens into surrounding cabinetry creates a streamlined, built-in look. Standard sizes allow the ovens to fit seamlessly between base cabinets and countertops. Some units even have false cabinet front panels to fully conceal the ovens when not in use.

Make sure to account for the additional width of two ovens when planning your kitchen workflow. Ample landing space should be available on both sides of the ovens. Keep proximity in mind when situating other appliances and prep zones.

Side-By-Side Built-In Ovens

Another clean, integrated option is installing two same-size ovens side-by-side within wider cabinet bays. This placement is convenient for easily accessing both ovens simultaneously. However, the wider oven footprint could disrupt the kitchen's work triangle if not carefully positioned.

Be sure to allow extra space between the ovens for safe use. At least 4 inches of clearance should separate built-in ovens. Also consider the oven doors' swing radius so they don't interfere with aisles or counter space. Side-by-side ovens should be installed a minimum of 12 inches from adjoining cabinets.

Stacked Double Ovens

Rather than extending the kitchen's horizontal footprint, stacked double ovens conserve precious floor space. One full-sized oven is installed over another within a taller, dedicated bay. This vertical design saves width while still offering two oven cavities.

Since the ovens are stacked, the controls must be easily accessible without uncomfortable reaching or bending. Pay attention to the oven doors' swing direction so the lower door doesn't collide with base cabinets or counter overhangs when opened.

Design Considerations for Double Oven Kitchens

When including double ovens in your kitchen plans, they should be seamlessly incorporated into an ergonomic layout. Keep these essential design factors in mind:

Kitchen Work Triangle

The work triangle connecting the main work zones of sink, cooker, and refrigerator should remain compact. Double ovens can impact triangle size and flow, so strategic placement is crucial. Keep trips between stations short and direct.

Aisles and Clearances

At least 42 to 48 inches of clearance should be maintained between opposite countertops or appliances. Islands and peninsulas should have a minimum 36-inch clear passage on all sides. Provide ample room to move around the ovens safely.

Traffic Flow

Position the ovens away from high-traffic areas to prevent bottlenecks. Ensure doorways or walkways don't cross through your main work triangle. Divert traffic around the perimeter of key workstations.

Landing Areas

Allow sufficient countertop landing space on both sides of the ovens. These areas give you room to temporarily place hot pans when removing them from the ovens.

Storage and Counter Space

Double ovens occupy more space, so you'll need creative storage solutions nearby. Optimize corners and vertical space with pull-out shelves, specialty organizers, and tall cabinetry. Multi-level islands also increase usable surface area.

Aesthetic Options for Double Oven Designs

Beyond layout, choosing attractive oven styles and finishes is key to an eye-catching kitchen design:

Matching or Contrasting Styles

Select two matching ovens in the same model line for a cohesive appearance. Or, mix different styles like stainless and enameled cast iron for an eclectic look. Contrasting colors can help differentiate upper and lower ovens.

Coordinated Finishes

Match your ovens to other kitchen finishes for a pulled-together design. For contemporary styling, pair brushed stainless ovens with silvery hardware and fixtures. Go for visual harmony with ovens and cabinetry in similar wood veneers or painted colors.

Custom Range Hoods

Incorporate a stylish range hood or ventilation design that complements your double ovens. Copper or stainless hoods can provide an attractive focal point over the oven bank.

Smart Functionality for Double Ovens

Look for ovens with features and modes that support your cooking needs. Convection fan settings, probes, and smart tech make double ovens even more useful.

Convection Cooking

Many double ovens offer convection modes in one or both ovens. Convection uses fans to circulate hot air for faster, more consistent baking results.

Digital Controls

Digital controls provide accuracy in setting temps and cook times. Look for options like preprogrammed modes, Sabbath settings, delay bake, and oven lockout for safety.

Interior Probes

Probe thermometers built into an oven allow you to monitor internal food temp with precision. The oven shuts off when your dish has reached the target temp.

WiFi enabled "smart" ovens can integrate with home assistants for voice-control operation. You can remotely monitor cook times and receive alerts on your phone.