If you’re remodeling your kitchen or building from scratch, choosing the right built-in refrigerator can make or break the entire design. These appliances do more than keep your food fresh, but they also define your kitchen’s style, flow, and functionality in today’s kitchens. Unlike freestanding models, a refrigerator built-in is designed to sit flush with your cabinetry, creating that clean, high-end, custom look that elevates the entire space. But here’s the kicker: size matters more than you might think.
Pick a fridge that’s too small, and you’ll be playing Tetris with groceries every week. If the fridge is too large, it could throw off your cabinet layout or, worse, not fit at all. With so many widths, heights, and configurations out there, from slim built-in refrigerator small models to massive 48” built-in refrigerator units, figuring out the right dimensions can get overwhelming fast.
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Upgrade your kitchen with a premium built in refrigerator from leading brands at Aitoro Appliance, today!
Shop Built-In RefrigeratorsThat’s why we made this guide, to help you sort through all the information to find the perfect built-in fridge for your home. We’ll break down exactly what a built-in fridge is, how to size it right, and which models are worth your attention—whether you're after the best built-in refrigerator for your dream kitchen or a compact option to fit a smaller space. Let’s get into it.
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What is a Built-in Refrigerator?
A built-in refrigerator is a fridge engineered to integrate seamlessly into your cabinets. It’s usually installed to be flush with cabinetry, creating a clean, unified look. Built-in fridges typically have a shallower depth, usually around 24–27 inches, so they don’t stick out far past your countertops.
What is it, and how does it work?
- Installation: Unlike freestanding units, built-in refrigerators are secured within your kitchen cabinetry, often custom-sized with trim kits or panel fronts.
- Ventilation: Built-ins require proper venting to avoid overheating. That means space above, below, or behind the unit for airflow.
- Cabinet integration: With options for panel‑ready customization, refrigerators can be disguised as part of the surrounding cabinet configuration.
→ Learn more: How to Seamlessly Integrate a Wine Fridge Into Your Home
What Sizes Do Built-In Refrigerators Come In?
Built-in refrigerators, just like normal refrigerators, come in a wide range of widths. Common built-in width options include 24", 30", 36", 42", and 48", with some brands even offering 18" or larger 54"+ column models. Counter-depth fridges typically run 24–27 inches (counter‑depth), and heights range between 66 to 84 inches depending on configuration.
Here’s a general size breakdown:
- 18‑24 inches wide: This size is suitable for a small built-in mini refrigerator, a built-in column refrigerator, a built-in wine refrigerator, or compact kitchens.
- 30 inches wide: Common size for counter-depth built-in fridge, often about 16–18 cu ft.
- 36 inches wide: This is considered a mid-size for a built-in french door or side‑by‑side, around 18–22 cu ft.
- 42 inches wide: This would be a larger built-in side‑by‑side, often 22–26 cu ft.
- 48 inches wide: This is typically the largest commonly found full‑size 48” built-in refrigerator, typically 25–30 cu ft or more.
You’ll also see built-in wine refrigerators or built-in beverage refrigerators in narrow formats (18–24") for specialty use.
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5 Tips for Finding the Right Size Built-in Refrigerator
Are you ready to look for a built in refrigerator? Here are 5 tips to make sure you get the right built-in fridge size the first time:
- Measure twice, cut once. Measure the height, width, and depth of the intended opening, and don’t forget the door swing clearance. You want clearance not only for the fridge shell but also for doors or drawers to open fully.
- Check capacity vs. cubic-foot need. Don’t just go by width. A 36” built-in refrigerator might hold 20 cu ft, but interior layout matters. Think about how much freezer vs fridge space you need and whether features like humidity drawers or adjustable shelves matter.
- Match cabinet depth for a flush look. A small model built-in fridge might only be 24 inches deep to stay flat with cabinetry. Standard depth styles (30–34") protrude and break that sleek built-in look.
- Plan for ventilation gaps. Built-in refrigeration often requires small gaps above or behind the unit. Check manufacturer specs for overhead clearance or side ventilation requirements.
- Think about what you store. If you entertain often, a 48 built-in refrigerator gives space for drinks and bulk items. Or if you just need chilled wine or beverages, a smaller built-in wine refrigerator or built-in beverage refrigerator might be ideal.
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Featured built-in Refrigerators By Size
Below are 6 featured models, each a built-in refrigerator spotlighting different widths and functions.
Thermador® Freedom® 24" 13.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator
Shop this Thermador® Freedom® Built-In Refrigerator
The Thermador Freedom 24" Built-In Column Refrigerator is a smart solution for smaller kitchens, wet bars, or just if you need a second refrigerator. With 13.0 cu ft of space and a slim 24-inch width, this model is perfect for tight layouts without sacrificing style or performance. It’s panel-ready, allowing you to match the unit to your cabinetry for a clean, cohesive look that disappears into your kitchen design. The Freedom series also features advanced cooling technology with sensors that adjust temperatures based on usage patterns—perfect for keeping produce fresher longer. If you're designing a custom kitchen and want a beautiful, compact built-in refrigerator small enough for minimalist spaces but powerful enough for everyday use, this is it.
Monogram® 30 in. 17.6 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
Shop this Monogram® Built-In Refrigerator
This 30-inch Monogram Built-In Column Refrigerator delivers a substantial 17.6 cu ft of storage in a vertically stacked layout that’s both elegant and space-efficient. The counter-depth design aligns with cabinetry for a flush appearance, and it’s panel-ready, allowing full customization to match your kitchen aesthetic. It’s ideal for homeowners who want to separate their fridge and freezer units for a more tailored appliance setup. Inside, you’ll find LED lighting, precision temperature management, and spill-proof glass shelving. It’s a great pick for anyone who wants a premium built-in fridge with personalized style and luxury-grade performance in a manageable footprint.
Electrolux 33 in. 18.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
Shop this Electrolux Built-In Refrigerator
The Electrolux 33-inch Built-In Refrigerator offers the best of both worlds: slightly more interior room than a 30-inch model and a modern stainless steel finish that elevates the look of any kitchen. With 18.9 cu ft of interior space, it’s a solid choice for families or foodies who need extra room for fresh produce and beverages. This column unit is designed to be counter-depth, so it sits flush with surrounding cabinetry for a built-in feel. It features full-extension drawer glides, adjustable shelves, and an elegant interior with LED lighting. For those looking for a high-end, pro-style refrigerator built-in that doesn’t overwhelm smaller kitchen layouts, this Electrolux strikes a great balance.
Bosch Benchmark® Series 36 in. 19.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop this Bosch Benchmark® Built-In Refrigerator
The Bosch Benchmark Series 36-inch French Door Refrigerator is a powerhouse of both performance and design. With a 19.4 cu ft capacity, it’s an ideal choice for families or entertainers who need flexibility and space. The French door design provides wide access to fresh food areas, and a bottom freezer adds convenience. Bosch’s signature MultiAirFlow™ system ensures even temperature distribution, while the stainless steel finish and hidden hinges give it that ultra-premium, built-in look. This is one of the best built-in refrigerator options in the 36-inch category, offering both style and substance in a feature-rich package.
Sub-Zero® Classic Series 48 in. 29.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop this Sub-Zero® Built-In Refrigerator
For those who want the ultimate statement piece in refrigeration, the Sub-Zero Classic Series 48-inch Built-In Side-By-Side Refrigerator is the gold standard. With a massive 29.1 cu ft of storage, this 48 built-in refrigerator is made for serious chefs, large households, or homeowners who entertain often. Its side-by-side configuration offers dedicated compartments for fresh and frozen goods, while dual refrigeration keeps each zone at the perfect humidity and temperature. The stainless steel exterior is both durable and iconic, and its built-in design allows it to sit perfectly flush with cabinetry. If you're building a luxury kitchen or remodeling for long-term value, this is a top-tier option worth every penny.
Built In Refrigerator FAQs
Absolutely. A built-in refrigerator provides unmatched aesthetic integration and often outclasses freestanding units in build quality, interior organization, and longevity—expect 15–20 years of service. Plus, it can boost property resale value thanks to the polished, custom look.
While both integrate with cabinetry, "built-in fridge" typically refers to professional-grade units secured into cabinetry with flush depth. "Integrated" models are panel-ready with inset doors or zero reveal. Integrated fridges are a subset of built-in; the difference is subtle. Both hide behind cabinetry for a seamless profile.
Built-in fridges come in standard width increments: 24", 30", 36", 42", 48", and sometimes 18" or larger column sizes up to 72". Depth also usually follows counter-depth norms (24–27"). Height varies by configuration.
If you live in Norwalk, come see us at Aitoro! We have a vast variety of built-in refrigerators from today’s best brands.
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