I think they are great if you don't want to have your mixer on the counter, I install the one from Lee Valley in my kitchen renos, it is strong and works very well, you can order it online. It is easy to clean and usually there is enough room underneath to store and extra bowl etc.

Appliance lifts are a very popular option when it comes to modernizing kitchens these days. The lifts that lift up and out of the existing cabinets seem to be a good solution but there are some drawbacks to the heavy spring-and-hinge design. If you have children in the kitchen they can be somewhat dangerous. There is a lot of force behind them. We have designed an alternative solution that you might consider, which is motorized so all you do is press a button and the appliances automatically raise up from under the countertop. The lift can handle loads up to 125 pounds and is almost silent, plus it looks really cool... The draw back is that you have to customize the counter top (cut a hole for the lid) but the upside is WAY worth it! Here is a video of how they work.

https://nexus21.wistia.com/medias/x0y37nvv1p

Let us know if we can help.