There’s nothing quite like having a café-quality brew right at home. Luxury kitchen design now goes beyond the basics, and more homeowners are opting for a built in coffee bar to streamline their routines and show off their love for coffee in style. The beauty of a dedicated built in coffee center is that it keeps everything you need: a machine, mugs, syrups, and more, organized and ready, turning your morning ritual into a moment of daily joy. Whether you’re starting from scratch or remodeling your space, a bit of forethought ensures your built in home coffee station isn’t just functional, but also a true highlight of your home. Here’s how to plan an efficient, beautiful layout for your new coffee haven.
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Shop Built-In Coffee MakersMeasure Your Space
Start with careful measurements—it’s the foundation for any successful built in coffee bar project. Most high-end built in coffee machines come available in two standard widths: 24” and 30”.
To measure your cabinet opening or the spot you want to use, follow these steps:
- Width: Use a tape measure to record the width of your cabinet cutout, from edge to edge. Check if your chosen coffee maker is a 24” or 30” model and ensure you have wiggle room for a panel or trim kit.
- Height: Built in coffee machines vary in height. Check manufacturer specs for minimum and maximum cabinet opening heights, allowing enough space for ventilation and door clearance.
- Depth: Standard counter and cabinet depths are usually enough, but measure from the front edge to the wall to be sure. Make sure there’s enough space at the back for water and electrical connections.
Aside from measuring, be sure to position your built in coffee machine at least a couple of inches away from any adjoining appliance. This prevents crowding, allows doors to open easily, and lets your coffee maker vent as designed.
Learn More: An In-Depth Look at Thermador and Wolf Ovens
Pick the Right Location
Choosing your coffee bar’s location is about more than just convenience. There are real design and practical details to consider if you want your built in coffee bar to stand out and work well every day.
Key requirements:
- Access to a standard electrical outlet nearby (most require 120V, but always verify with your installer/product manual).
- For plumbed-in models, a nearby water line makes filling reservoirs a breeze and automates many features.
- Good lighting—you’ll want to see that espresso stream and your favorite mug!
Popular spots for your built in coffee bar:
✅A Coffee Machine in a Pantry: For a hidden-away bar, installing a coffee-maker in a walk-in pantry keeps the kitchen uncluttered.
✅A Coffee Machine in an Appliance Garage: Appliance garages are trending. They’re great for hiding a built in coffee center behind a roll-up or pocket door and keep everything neat but instantly accessible.
✅A Coffee Machine in a Bar Station: Set up a full morning and evening bar near your dining space for espresso martinis or after-dinner cappuccinos.
✅A Coffee Machine in an Appliance Wall: Group your coffee bar alongside other specialty appliances (think steam oven, speed oven, or built-in warming drawer) for a sleek, custom, professional look.
Not recommended:
Avoid installing your built-in coffee machine directly over cooktops, ovens, dishwashers, or sinks. Heat, humidity, and steam can damage sensitive electronics and finish over time. Corners and tight cabinets with poor ventilation are also a no-go.
Learn More: 6 High-End Kitchen Appliances That Define Luxury Living
Build the Coffee Bar
The best coffee bar designs for homes don’t just showcase a beautiful machine—they anticipate everything you’ll need for a seamless daily experience. Here are must-have elements for a functional and fabulous built in coffee bar (CLICK THE ➕TO LEARN MORE):
➕Storage
Dedicate drawers or shelves for mugs, espresso cups, travel tumblers, and accessories (think frothing pitchers, stirrers, or digital scales).
➕Utensils & Syrups
Organize a pull-out rack or caddy for vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and other flavor syrups, as well as stirrers and measuring spoons.
➕Beans & Pods
If your machine has a built-in grinder, keep fresh beans within reach, stored in airtight containers. For models that don’t store fresh coffee beans, consider adding a dark, air-tight container to protect from oxidization and sunlight damage.
➕Faucet
Especially in an appliance garage, a nearby pot-filler or small faucet takes the hassle out of filling reservoirs and cleaning. It’s not a must-have, but we recommend exploring options for the full, luxury experience.
➕Mini Fridge or Beverage Center
Not required, but a game changer, beverage centers are handy for stocking creamers, milk alternatives, sparkling water, and even a stash of desserts!
Remember: Built in coffee center layouts should be built around daily routines, so think about your flow from coffee making to prepping a drink to running out the door.
Select the Right Built In Coffee Maker
Selecting the right machine comes down to matching features with the way you enjoy coffee. Premium built in coffee machines for the home offer plenty of bells and whistles—here’s what to consider:
✔Steam Wand: Coffee maker steam wands are essential frothing milk for lattes and cappuccinos. For our money, we think a retractable or integrated wand is even more user-friendly.
✔Integrated Grinder: A bean hopper keeps coffee fresh and lets you dial in grind size for the ultimate flavor. Go for a ceramic or burr grinder for best consistency.
✔Built-in Milk Container: This feature is great for coffee lovers who enjoy milky brews. Basic models store milk, while premium coffee makers store, steam, and deliver your milk automatically.
✔Spout Count: Double spouts let you brew two drinks side-by-side—a boon for couples or families.
✔Specialty Drink Settings: Look for pre-programmed recipes (espresso, macchiato, flat white, etc.) for variety and consistency with a single touch.
Shop Top Built-In Coffee Makers
Now, let’s dive into a few of the best built in coffee machines and highlight what makes each one unique:
Thermador® 24" Stainless Steel Built in Coffee Machine
Shop This Thermador Coffee Maker
The Thermador TCM24PS brings bold design and barista-level versatility to the heart of your built in coffee bar. Its integrated grinder produces freshly ground beans for every cup, while intuitive touch controls make switching between coffee, espresso, or custom drinks fast and easy. This machine supports a continuous flow of water and milk, ideal for multiple drinks or entertaining guests. With its 24" footprint and premium finish, it fits seamlessly into a row of matching Thermador appliances or stands out in a custom coffee station. Users love how quick the self-cleaning cycle is and that the machine can adjust strength, temperature, and size for truly customized results.
Wolf® E Series Transitional 30" Stainless Steel Coffee System
Part of the luxury Wolf/Sub-Zero family, the Wolf E Series EC3050TE/S coffee maker is for coffee-lovers who demand total control and a seamless kitchen aesthetic. Its spacious 30" design gives extra room for touch controls and an easy-to-fill water tank, while a dual spout setup means you can make two drinks at once—just like a coffee shop. This Wolf built in coffee maker shines for its precision: strength, grind size, temperature, and milk settings are all adjustable to suit every taste. A beautiful stainless steel finish and transitional styling allow it to integrate effortlessly with other Wolf or Sub-Zero appliances.
Bertazzoni Professional Series 24" Stainless Steel Built In Coffee Maker
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The Bertazzoni CM242WTXT coffee system is full of Italian charm with practical features, delivering both style and substance. Its built-in ceramic grinder allows bean-to-cup brewing with exceptional depth and aroma. This model offers adjustable spouts for different cup sizes and can quickly create single or double shots. The intuitive touch controls and programmable user profiles make it easy for any household member to create their favorite beverage at the perfect strength. Slim with a 24” width, this model fits easily into most built in coffee bar designs, especially for smaller kitchens or as part of a full Bertazzoni suite.
Gaggenau 400 Series Fully Automatic Espresso Machine-Stainless Steel
Shop This Gaggenau Coffee Maker
The Gaggenau 400 Series CM470712 coffee maker is in a class of its own. Its beautifully machined finish and handle-less design fit flush in the most demanding contemporary spaces. Users will love having dual spouts and a full array of programmed drinks, including everything from espresso to flat white. Gaggenau’s advanced milk system delivers silky, café-style foam every time, while the easy-to-navigate color display allows for total drink personalization. Renowned for low-maintenance operation and reliability, it’s a true showpiece for a built in home coffee station.
Fulgor Milano Matteo 700 Series 24" Matte Black Built-In Coffee Maker
Shop This Fulgor Milano Coffee Maker
Modern and striking, the Fulgor Milano F7MBC24MB1 offers an Italian-designed alternative to the standard stainless look. Its matte black exterior feels at home in the most current coffee bar designs for homes, while still delivering standout performance. The built-in grinder handles multiple bean varieties, and the self-cleaning system makes daily maintenance a cinch. Thanks to the versatile spout setup and customizable drink settings, this model appeals to those who like to experiment. Plus, the LED illumination and digital display lend a high-tech feel. This machine is perfect for fans of bold design who want just as bold a coffee.
Miele 24" Clean Touch Steel Built In Coffee Maker
From the company that practically invented the luxury coffee center, the Miele CVA 7440 CTS is a staple in high-end kitchens worldwide. With the Miele built in coffee system, you get “OneTouch for Two,” allowing you to brew two drinks at once, while the built-in grinder, milk system, and adjustable beverage profiles ensure the perfect pour every time. Miele’s self-cleaning components and durable build make maintenance nearly effortless. Plus, flexible design means you can integrate it into a wall of appliances or as a kitchen showpiece. Users adore the machine’s quiet operation and the consistency, which is what you’d expect from Miele built in coffee machines for the home.
Bosch® 24" Built In Coffee Machine-Stainless Steel
Bosch is known for reliability, and the Bosch BCM8450UC delivers on that promise. With easy-access touch controls, a built-in grinder, and milk system, this Bosch built in coffee maker model makes everything from espresso to frothy cappuccinos on demand. It fits neatly into 24” cabinets and offers favorites memorization, so households can save their go-to drinks. The design is streamlined, and the self-cleaning function minimizes fuss. It’s a top pick for buyers seeking fuss-free, consistent results from a trusted brand. The Bosch built in coffee maker brings European precision to your home, making it an excellent upgrade for anyone building a practical, stylish built in coffee bar.
Fresh espresso every morning right from the kitchen might be a luxury, but it’s one you deserve. Beat the herd at your local barista shop and upgrade to a built-in coffee maker to enjoy the perfect pour every time. Our experts at Specialty Appliance are happy set you up—visit one of our Front Range appliance stores today to learn and explore more!
Why Trust the Experts at Specialty?
For over 20 years, Coloradans have relied on us for the best in home appliances. We believe in providing a personalized experience for every customer. Our experts take the time to listen to your needs, preferences, and budget constraints, offering tailored recommendations and solutions that fit your unique requirements. Whether you're remodeling your kitchen or replacing a single appliance, you can trust our experts to provide honest, unbiased advice that prioritizes your satisfaction. A factory-certified team ensures a hassle-free experience, meticulously handling every detail from delivery to installation. Plus, with our wide variety of brands and models, you'll have access to the latest innovations, stylish designs, and reliable performance.
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