KitchenAid's New Evergreen Mixer: Style Over Substance?

KitchenAid, a Whirlpool Corporation subsidiary, recently unveiled its Evergreen stand mixer, featuring a walnut wood bowl. This latest addition to their product line, priced at $699.99, has sparked discussions about the balance between aesthetics and functionality in kitchen appliances.

The Evergreen mixer, part of KitchenAid's designer series launched in 2024, showcases a deep green matte finish with brass accents. While visually appealing, the wooden bowl has raised concerns among baking enthusiasts regarding its practicality.

Brittni Pertijs, design manager at Whirlpool Corporation, acknowledges that the walnut bowl requires different care than traditional metal bowls. However, she emphasizes that the Evergreen mixer is designed for kitchen use and is compatible with over 10 attachments, including metal bowls sold separately.

Despite practical concerns, the Evergreen mixer has received positive consumer response, selling out on KitchenAid's website within a week of its release. This success reflects a growing trend in kitchen design where appliances serve dual purposes as functional tools and decorative elements.

KitchenAid stand mixers have been a kitchen staple since their introduction 105 years ago. Over the decades, they've evolved into status symbols, often displayed prominently on countertops. Interior designer Tracy Morris notes, "The KitchenAid mixer for younger folks could mean, 'I've made it. I have arrived in my kitchen and I am doing big things.'"

The wooden bowl presents several challenges for common culinary tasks. It absorbs odors, requires regular seasoning with food-safe oils, and is not suitable for chilling or beating egg whites due to its insulating properties and potential fat contamination. These limitations have led some to question the practicality of the design.

Comparing the Evergreen mixer to other KitchenAid models reveals additional drawbacks. It features a tilt-head design, which some consider inferior to bowl-lift models in terms of power and stability. The wooden bowl also lacks a handle, potentially making it more difficult to maneuver.

Despite these practical concerns, the Evergreen mixer's popularity suggests a shift in consumer priorities. Alicia Waters, brand president at Crate & Barrel, reports strong sales, indicating that aesthetic appeal may be outweighing functionality for some buyers.

Interior designer Cathleen Gruver explains the appeal: "Wood is a very timeless material. It's also very popular in kitchen design right now. It just kind of has a little bit more character and feels more heirloom-y and collected."

As KitchenAid continues to innovate, balancing form and function remains a challenge. The Evergreen mixer's success raises questions about the future of kitchen appliance design and whether aesthetics will increasingly take precedence over practicality.

"Evergreen brings the beauty of nature to your countertop as it connects you with the outdoors every time you enter the kitchen."

In conclusion, while the Evergreen stand mixer may not be the most practical choice for serious bakers, its popularity demonstrates a growing demand for visually striking kitchen appliances. As consumers increasingly view their kitchens as spaces for both cooking and showcasing personal style, products like the Evergreen mixer are likely to continue finding success in the market.