A semi-integrated dishwasher is not fully incorporated into the kitchen design.
A semi-integrated dishwasher is a class of electric dishwasher that occupies a niche between the freestanding and fully integrated types of dishwashers. When kitchen space is at a premium, the semi-integrated dishwasher offers the convenience of under-counter installation. However, unlike fully integrated appliances, the semi-integrated dishwasher’s operating controls and access panels are always exposed to view.
For decades, semi-integrated or built-in appliances have been a part of modern interior design. Whether in the urbanized United States, the Eurozone, bustling Asia, or any developing country, families have embraced the convenience of every labor-saving appliance as it becomes affordable. Kitchens are traditionally busy places, especially at mealtimes, and most of the appliances were backed up against the walls to allow space for family cooking and dining. Soon, residential architects created cubicles to keep bulky refrigerators, freezers, and ovens out of the way. The appliance manufacturers themselves won an award for a body finish that matched or blended well with stained wood walls or laminate countertops.
Beginning in the second half of the 20th century and continuing into the first decade of this century, urban homeowners enjoyed a bonanza of integrated or semi-integrated appliances. Condominium units, vacation homes, and cramped mansions in gated subdivisions boasted a full set of “necessities” for the modern lifestyle. Semi-integrated dishwashers have taken their place alongside integrated compactors and bins, ice machines, microwaves, refrigerators/freezers, gas ranges, double ovens, and oven warming drawers.
The feature of the semi-integrated dishwasher is that the control panel is at the top and usually near the front. This allows the user to hide everything except the controls behind the corresponding kitchen cabinets. The front-loading design of most dishwasher models allows certain brands to place the touch-sensitive controls inside the swing-out door panel so nothing is visible.
Front access means the homeowner has the option of installing the semi-integrated dishwasher in an “under counter” style. That is, leave the front panel with a metallic finish exposed and install the integrated dishwasher under the kitchen counter. Aesthetics and good taste remain at the service of a continuous finish for the kitchen countertop.
However, the use of a semi-integrated dishwasher has some disadvantages. First, there is the cost of buying semi-integrated dishwashers; the more established and larger capacity brands are generally much more expensive. Installation and maintenance add to the cost of owning and operating semi-integrated dishwashers. Placing one requires skillful concealment of power lines, fresh water supplies, and drainage pipes. If your dishwasher breaks, it’s probably better to call a licensed technician or plumber than do the handyman yourself.
