AIBU to have a visible washing machine and tumble dryer in kitchen-diner

[frugi]

We are in the process of creating (via a garage conversion) a large open plan kitchen dining room. Original plan was to have hideaway units for washing machine and tumble dryer. Have realised those are a bit restrictive re choice of dryer (would like condenser or heat pump dryer and they can’t have doors in front apparently). So now considering leaving them open with just countertop over. Would this look weird in a living area? We will also have visible fridge and freezer. My husband thinks it may look a bit odd to have them visible and I agree with him that it’s neater to have them hidden. But I think it would be ok to have them visible under the counter? Does anyone have this?

I dislike integrated appliances. We have them in our new kitchen as that’s what it came with but I have already replaced the dishwasher and will replace the others as soon as I can. We also have a studio flat that has integrated appliances and whilst I have kept them there because as you can see them from the seating area (and to keep the noise down), in a larger property I much prefer free standing. I was also shocked at how limited you are for choice with integrated appliances. Go for it.

For those who don't like washing machines in kitchens, I can think of nothing more weird and unpleasant than having a washing machine in a bathroom. As for the washing machine creating any steam or condensation - whoever finds that must own a washing machine from the dark ages. I can't comment on tumble dryers, though, as I don't own one. I know I wouldn't want one in my bathroom, though, besides the fact most people wouldn't own a bathroom big enough to fit one, anyway. I don't like washing machines in garages and outhouses, either - horrible accidentally dropping washing on a dusty floor. The kitchen, on the other hand, is a clean, pleasant environment and it doesn't put you out to check whether the washing has finished, yet. Kitchen or laundry room are best. And freestanding.

We have free standing - just make sure that the tumble dryer vents to the front if they are going to be in a row side by side etc. Loads of condenser tumble dryer vent to the side now. Such a pain.

I moved my washing machine into a cupboard in the upstairs hall. There's a sound limiting mat underneath and i love it. Dirty clothes go into the basket above and a dryer will join it in a few months. My new kitchen is open plan into the living room and as my husband is responsible for clothes washing and he does a wash every evening, the noise would be awful. It was annoying in the old kitchen separated by a door. I barely hear it now. Love my kitchen now it has no visble/audible washing machine.

But each to their own. If it doesn't bother you then who cares what anyone else thinks? Do what makes you happy and works for your family.

My Mother and Mother-in Law both had washing machines in the kitchen - neither could ever give a good reason why.

Probably because in most houses back in the day, that's where the washing machine always went.

I'm not talking about large detached houses, but your average 1920s / 30s semi or older terraced house did not have a utility room, so the kitchen was the only option. I'm talking about habits of the 1970s and earlier.

Also not a fan of integrated stuff.However I have a tiny kitchen so have removed the downstairs toilet and moved the washing machine inanda dryer will follow(mainly for sheets/towels in winter
I have had one wall shelved out and have the boiler moved here too.It is quieter and has left me decent storage in the kitchen with large storage jars,flour etc on the shelves.