Luxury kitchens are undergoing a quiet transformation.
Sleek, integrated designs are replacing statement appliances, technology is becoming more intuitive, and homeowners are increasingly seeking spaces that support how they live rather than simply showcase the latest trends. As kitchens continue to evolve into the heart of the home, appliance manufacturers are adapting alongside them.
To better understand where kitchen design is headed, and what homeowners, designers, and builders should be thinking about today, we spoke with Sean Hodge, LG Pro Builder Director of Sales Southeast.
From the rise of “invisible” appliances to the smart technology that actually makes a difference, Hodge shares insights on emerging trends, common mistakes, and the innovations shaping the next generation of luxury kitchens.
Luxury kitchens have become more “invisible” in design. How has that changed the way LG approaches appliance aesthetics and functionality?
At SKS, we see the move toward more integrated kitchens as a natural evolution of luxury design. Homeowners and designers want spaces that feel intentional where appliances support the overall vision rather than compete with it. That’s why we focus on built-in and panel-ready solutions, flush installations and refined details that blend seamlessly into the architecture of the home.
Functionally, however, “invisible” doesn’t mean compromising performance. Our goal is to deliver professional-level precision and innovation behind a clean, understated design. The appliance may visually disappear, but the performance remains front and center.
What’s a feature or innovation from the last five years that you think still flies under the radar?
One innovation that still flies under the radar is the combi speed oven. Many homeowners still view it as a secondary appliance or an upgraded microwave, but it often becomes one of the most-used tools in the kitchen. From roasting and baking to steaming and reheating, combi speed ovens help preserve flavor, texture and moisture while simplifying everyday cooking.
What is the biggest appliance “mistake” that you see?
One of the biggest mistakes is waiting too long to think about appliances. Appliances influence everything from kitchen layout and cabinetry to ventilation and workflow, so they should be part of the design conversation from the beginning.
When homeowners, designers and builders collaborate early, they’re able to create a kitchen that’s not only beautiful, but also performs exactly the way the homeowner intends.
What’s one thing homeowners think they want in a kitchen today and one thing they end up valuing far more once they live with it?
Many homeowners initially focus on adding more features or more capacity. What they often end up valuing most is confidence in the kitchen.
Features that simplify cooking and deliver consistent results tend to have the biggest long-term impact. Whether it’s guided cooking programs, precision temperature control or advanced cooking modes, homeowners appreciate technology that helps them cook better and enjoy the experience more often.
Depending on the SKS appliance model, there are dozens of built-in, guided cooking options, which are optimized to deliver consistent, high-quality results such as Auto Cook or Gourmet AI.
Smart home technology promised a lot over the last decade. What’s actually proving useful for homeowners now and what has gone by the wayside?
The most valuable smart technology is the technology that solves a real problem. Homeowners appreciate features like remote monitoring, maintenance alerts, guided cooking and diagnostics which are all available through our ThinQ app because they make everyday life easier.
What we’re seeing is a shift away from technology for technology’s sake. People don’t want more complexity; they want tools that save time, improve results and fit naturally into their routines. That’s where smart appliances are creating the most meaningful value today.
If you could design the ideal kitchen for the next generation of homeowners, what would look different from today’s kitchens?
The next generation of kitchens will be even more integrated, flexible and personalized. Design will continue moving toward cleaner aesthetics and seamless appliance integration, while functionality will focus on versatility rather than simply adding more products.
We’ll see appliances that can perform multiple tasks, smarter technology that anticipates needs and more solutions that support how people actually cook and live. The goal is a kitchen that feels intuitive, adaptable and deeply connected to the homeowner’s lifestyle.
What appliance do people underestimate until they own a really good version of it?
The most underestimated appliance is the dishwasher, as most homeowners see it as a basic utility. Once they experience a high-performance dishwasher, it completely changes expectations.
Important attributes like cleaning power, drying performance and noise level make a huge difference in everyday living. A premium dishwasher is cleaning dishes while running quietly in the background, often so silent, you don’t even realize it’s on. Add in better rack design, flexible loading and no pre-rinsing required, and it becomes a real workflow improvement in the kitchen.
The dishwasher is one of those appliances people don’t think much about during selection, but once they have a great one, it quickly becomes something they rely on and appreciate.
If budget wasn’t a factor, where should homeowners invest first in the kitchen?
I would invest in cooking appliances. Cooking is at the heart of the kitchen experience, and the appliances used every day have the greatest impact on performance, enjoyment and overall functionality.
Whether it’s a professional-style range, induction cooking or advanced wall ovens, investing in high-performance cooking appliances provides lasting value and elevates the way people interact with the kitchen every day.
What’s one question you wish builders, designers, or homeowners asked more often when selecting appliances?
I wish more people asked, “How will this appliance support the way I want to live and cook?”
Performance specifications are important, but the best appliance decisions consider the entire experience. When homeowners think about how they cook, entertain and use their space, they’re more likely to select products that deliver long-term satisfaction and integrate seamlessly into the overall design.
Anything else you’d like to add?
At SKS, we believe the kitchen has evolved beyond a place to prepare meals—it’s become the center of how people live, gather and connect. That’s the idea behind Technicurean Living™: the belief that technology, design and culinary passion should work together to elevate everyday experiences.
Today’s homeowners aren’t simply looking for appliances; they’re looking for thoughtfully designed spaces that support how they cook, entertain and spend time with family and friends. Our role is to create solutions that blend innovation with intention, helping to make the kitchen more intuitive, inspiring and enjoyable to live in every day.
