Manufacturers claim the taste of speed-cooked food is comparable to food prepared in a conventional oven. White and black take up most of the rest of the market, with bisque, a creamier take on almond, at the rear of the pack. Ranges and cooktops are more likely to be stainless. Colorful appliances are making a minor comeback for those seeking a more designed look for upscale kitchens. Manufacturers are aiming these products at consumers unafraid to scrap a color they tire of after a few years.
Dishwashers also come in hunter green, red and yellow.
At last month s International Builders Show in Atlanta, GE displayed appliances in midnight blue and eggplant. Depending on public response, it may begin selling those colors. Viking offers 14 finishes, including mint julep, lemonade and cobalt blue, but still sells more than 80 percent of its products in stainless and much of the rest in black, white and gray. It s a great marketing tool. It brings people in.