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Marching to the beat of simplicity and style

The new Piano Black small appliance series from Haier makes music from sleek design and great function.

Abbi Perets
Abbi Perets has been writing about technology and family and consumer issues for over ten years. Her work has been featured in print and on the Web, and she has taught courses on consumer and business electronics for HP, Sony, AOL, and other companies. Abbi has also written extensively about business technology for Tech Republic, Gantthead, and other tech sites. Abbi's passion for home appliances stems from the kitchen remodel she managed in her new home in Houston, TX where she lives with her husband and four children.
Abbi Perets

It really is as black and shiny as my piano. Haier

You can always count on an exhibition to inspire companies to create and display some pretty cool stuff, and the International Housewares Show in Chicago is no exception. Among Haier's showings this year is the new Piano Black line of small appliances.

The blue LED illumination looks good, but it's the features, like cool-to-the-touch handles, that will really win you over. This is a full line of appliances, including a cordless electric water kettle in standard and dome shapes, digital toasters in a variety of configurations, a food processor and blender combination, a citrus juicer, and more.

I've always resisted the pull of electric kettles, but these look so good I might have to make an exception. My favorite feature from the line is on the digital toaster: a countdown display. If you've ever stood in your kitchen, coffee in hand, waiting to grab your toast and go, you will know exactly what I'm feeling.

These appliances don't need to hide out in cabinets or behind doors; they're right at home out on the counter for everyone to see. The line was just unveiled at the show in late March, so look for it to hit stores shortly.