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(StatePoint) — Shopping for a new refrig- erator can feel overwhelming. But knowing your exact needs will simplify the process and help you feel confident in your purchase. "A refrigerator can do a lot more for you than hold your food and keep it cold. Some of today's models have features that can truly elevate your kitchen experience," says Peter Weedfald, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Sharp Home Electronics Com- pany of America. "Knowing your needs and wants can help you be a savvy shopper." To find the right fridge for your home, con- sider these five factors: 1. Measurements. Measure the space where you'll be placing the fridge. Not only does your new fridge need to fit into this spot, but you also need clearance to open the doors. Having these specifications can help you begin your search and narrow your options. 2. Finish. Consider giving your kitchen a cohesive look by matching the finish of your new refrigerator to your other current appli- ances. Stainless steel is particularly sleek and easy to clean. With a quick wipe-down, your fridge can look brand new. Ultimately, opt for a finish that you love and that ties your kitchen together. 3. Capacity. Keep your shopping and cook- ing habits in mind to ensure your fridge size meets your needs. Are you someone who buys a lot of fresh produce and goods? Do you tend to do big grocery hauls? Then a large-capacity fridge is a must. If space is at a premium and you're searching for some- thing compact, yet still able to handle your needs, the Sharp SJB1255GS, a 24-inch Bot- tom-Freezer Counter Depth Refrigerator may be the ideal fit. With two shelves, a spa- cious 4.2 cubic foot freezer with three draw- ers, and a removable wine rack for quick and easy organization, this innovative space-sav- ing model features well-designed storage solutions. 4. Freezer style. There are three main freezer style options you may come across when looking for a new refrigerator: side-by- side, bottom-freezer, and top-freezer. Deter- mining which style is right for you largely depends on what you want as your main focus. For example, if you use your refrigera- tor more often than the freezer, a bottom- freezer is a good choice, as it means that your refrigerator shelves will be at eye level. 5. Features. After the basics, such as capacity and finish, comes the fun stuff — extra features. These extra features can real- ly set one appliance apart from another. To get an idea of what's available today, consid- er the Sharp SJG2254FS, a French Four Door Counter-Depth Refrigerator. A great bet for those who entertain or have growing fami- lies and changing needs, it features a triple cooling system that allows you to independ- ently control the refrigerator, drawers, and ice maker for greater flexibility. A multipur- pose flex drawer with four independently- controlled temperature settings means you can optimize the storage of meats (30 degrees F) or use it as a beverage cooler (34 degrees F). The flex drawer can also be opti- mized for deli items and snacks (37 degrees F) or converted to a wine chiller (41 degrees F). OCTOBER 2022 HOME 7 When your fridge says: Time to get a new one 5 factors to consider when buying a refrigerator (c) krblokhin / iStock via Getty Images Plus One of the features to consider when buying a refrigerator is capacity. Not only the size but also the storage utilization should be considered. By Cathy Hobbs Tribune News Service Like black, the color brown is neutral, blends well with other colors and adds a sense of luxury. For many, brown is a won- derful and soothing alternative to black while viewed as not as harsh. The beauty of brown is it adds warmth to nearly any space without overwhelming it. Looking for ways to incorporate brown into your home? Here are some top tips. DO'S 1. Do pair tints, tones and shades of brown in a space. 2. Do use shades of taupe and cream in spaces where you wish to incorporate shades of brown. 3. Do use brown in spaces of the home where you want to add warmth and coziness. 4. Do use shades of brown for upholstery, accents and accessories. 5. Do use artwork as a way to infuse bold elements of brown into your home's color palette. DON'TS 1. Don't be afraid to pair black and brown in the same space. 2. Don't bring in too many dark shades of brown in the same space. 3. Don't avoid a monochromatic color scheme. Tints, tones and shades of brown will work well in the same space. 4. Don't bring in too many brown elements in the same space, such as too many heavy furniture elements. 5. Don't ignore blending darker shades of brown with lighter shades of brown and white to soften darker brown colors in a space. Design Recipes: The beauty of brown

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