The Milan Furniture Expo, a well-known furniture show, was a showcase for technology in 2008.
A-Plan Kitchens , designers of kitchens, have joined some 348,000 visitors to the Milan Furniture Expo earlier this year, to see the impact of the expo on kitchen design and manufacture.
While the Italians are well-known for their design flair, the 2008 show was equally notable for innovations in manufacturing including sensor lighting, electric drawers and lift up doors as well as the integration of technology.
The latter was obvious with the appearance of computer screens providing control of all electronic devices within the home.
Another notable feature was the growing assimilation of entertainment systems into kitchen areas. Microwaves, convection ovens and flat screen televisions in matching panels were a common sight on display.
In summary, the integration of technology has removed the drudgery of many household tasks enabling the kitchen to become a place for entertainment as well as the quick and easy preparation of family meals.