Top picks are products by Thermador and Dacor, with high marks given to Kitchen Aid and GE Profile cooking lines. Miele's dishwashers are virtually silent and thoroughly clean silverware by using a cutlery tray instead of a basket. Bosch and Asko are two other highly touted brands, known for water conservation, low noise, and stainless-steel interiors. The exhaust fans that pull heat and odors away from the cooktop are now not just a practical item but a fashion statement. Wheb shopping for appliances, the Internet is a good place to start.
Most manufacturers have Web sites, with photos and details about appliances.
You can purchase appliances through a kitchen designer, and many display appliances in their showrooms. Several large retailers offer competitive prices and provide full design services. From the October 2000 issue.