Socializing in Style

Cooking and socializing at home has steadily grown in recent years, leading to an increased demand for cooking appliances that both contribute to the design of the kitchen and offer customized options for creating the perfect meal.

“Due to the pandemic, the last few years have brought kitchens to the forefront of the conversation, not just as a working space but as social and emotional places for families to gather. Cooking has taken a front seat,” stresses Skyler Stevenson, North American senior marketing + product manager for Gaggenau North America, BSH Home Appliances Corporation, based in Irvine, CA.

“Customers are looking for a variety of cooking modes combined with guided cooking to help maintain a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle by making the preparation of a home-cooked meal easier than ever,” offers Scott Kim, director of Product Marketing, Dacor in Ridgefield Park, NJ. “We are also seeing an increased interest in precision performance for faster prep times, without sacrificing on quality.”

Both style and function are critical factors in cooking appliances. “Along with color being back in vogue, the ability of appliances to meet the many needs of homeowners remains key,” remarks Melissa Haber, v.p. of Edgewood, NY-based EuroChef USA, which imports Lofra. “Lofra sees these as capabilities, not trends. Size options and features are what drives the homeowners’ decision.”

Manufacturers recently surveyed by Kitchen & Bath Design News say that additional trends for cooking appliances include attention to safety and simplicity, aesthetics that either pop or help these appliances blend flawlessly into the cabinetry, continued interest in induction, and intuitive technology.

While cooking appliances may be complex in design, with a range of cooking capabilities and features within one unit, manufacturers agree that homeowners are looking for easy-to-use options that are safe, efficient and sustainable.

Ease of use is one of the most important features, according to Louis Van Leeuwen, CEO at Tulip Cooking Co. based in Cos Cob, CT. Greater fuel efficiency and sustainability are also important, he adds.

Paula Smith, channel marketing director – designer/builder at Fisher & Paykel in Costa Mesa, CA, says, “When it comes to kitchen appliances, ease of use is top of mind. This is often intertwined with the appliance’s technological capabilities. Several of our ovens offer integrated touchscreen panels, allowing users to cook by food type, function and recipe, ensuring perfect results, whether you consider yourself an amateur home chef or a professional,” she explains.

“Efficiency is another key feature across appliances,” Smith adds. ”Energy Star ratings are a must, as well.”

Maintenance is another important aspect, manufacturers say. “The number one feature everyone wants is self-cleaning,” reports Sheri Mercadante, national product trainer for SMEG in New York, NY. “It’s not the sexiest feature, but it’s something nobody wants to live without.”

She adds that many don’t realize there are self-cleaning options. The more well-known type requires the oven to get very hot, turning soil to ash, which must then be wiped clean. “This process is very hard on the best ovens on the market, and even infrequent use will reduce the lifespan of the machine. It’s also tough on your air conditioning in warmer climates because the self-clean program will raise the temperature of the room,” Mercadante says.

The second type uses steam rather than heat. “About a cup of water is poured into a special reservoir in the bottom of the oven cavity and the oven will heat to 212 degrees for about 20 minutes. All of the racks can be left inside so they’re getting a good cleaning as well. The oven cools down in a few minutes, all the soil has been liquified and can then be wiped down. This process is so gentle it can be completed every day, if desired.”

As regulations change, there’s a move away from gas appliances, manufacturers say. “One of the current significant trends we are seeing is shifting to electric, which is optimally good for your overall health and well-being,” reports Stein Shi, v.p. of Fotile America, based in Parsippany, NJ. “A study estimated that kids who grew up in homes with gas stoves were 42% more likely to experience symptoms of asthma than kids in a home with electric stoves. Also, in recent years, we’ve seen the gas ban starting to affect several states like New York, California and Washington, which occupied about 30% of residential gas use within the United States. We’ve noticed more brands starting to focus on electrical cooking appliances, implementing better ventilation systems, which in turn dramatically reduces residue gas and carbon monoxide from the kitchen.”

Built-in safety features are also important. “The range hood and cooktop’s synchronization feature allows users to focus on cooking without worrying about harmful cooking fumes,” says Shi. “Another feature is the Gas Auto Shut-Off Feature, allowing the device to cut off the gas supply in case the burner fails to ignite or the flame goes out.”

Cooking style preferences are as varied as the consumers who are using them, so flexibility and a range of options is important, manufacturers say.

“Likewise, for those who are no longer looking for a one-size-fits-all range, Gaggenau offers a built-in solution that allows you to create your customized aesthetic statement harmoniously with the cabinets of your choice,” Stevenson states. “A range need not be limited to a specific width or a freestanding-only option. The kitchen of the future, the modern kitchen, is where we don’t build a range – you do.”

“Users are looking for increased functionality that eliminates the need for multiple, single-use appliances,” mentions Kim. “For example, Dacor’s newest addition to its luxury cooking appliance portfolio, the 48″ Pro Range, includes air sous vide, air fry, Steam-Assist baking and a dual infrared broiler for optimal flavor and texture in every dish. Within a single appliance, users also have a variety of options that enable them to cook healthier meals at home using the air fry and Steam-Assist baking capabilities.”

Haber adds that appliances that offer more than one convection cooking mode, a simmer plate, wok ring and griddles are still in demand. “For those using induction, both a simmer setting and a rapid boil setting are very much in demand,” she adds.

Mercadante agrees that a simmer feature is essential. “With gas ranges and cooktops over the years there’s always been a ‘Battle of the BTU’s,’ with consumers judging a cooking appliance’s quality based on its heat output from the burners,” she explains. “Real cooks, however, will tell you that the magic lies in the ability to achieve a perfect simmer. Ultra-low-BTU gas burners and push-of-a-button ‘Simmer’ functions for induction zones provide the best control just below the boiling point for flavor-infused dishes and tender proteins, vegetables and starches.”

On the flip side, Shi says that high BTU appliances with heat efficiency are most in demand. “While generating high BTU isn’t difficult, it is challenging to generate high BTU with minimum gas consumption. This tends to be another reason consumers are switching from gas to electric stove tops, as electric generally has higher heat efficiency than gas. However, in most replacement scenarios, consumers won’t pay for the switch cost from gas line to 240v power cord, especially when the oven part is involved,” she explains.

“In addition to a growing interest around induction cooking, steam cooking is also growing in popularity since it’s one of the healthiest food preparation methods available. No butter or oil is needed to lock in flavor, and nutrients are sealed in,” says Smith. “With traditional cooking methods like boiling, essential vitamins and minerals are leached out in the heating process. Overall steam cooking is a gentler method of cooking. For customers who are looking to invest in their well-being, this appliance is a no-brainer.”

Mercadante adds, “Steam cooking is also a significant trend despite the fact that it also has been available in the U.S. for two decades. Most people associate steam cooking with healthy cooking, and they’re not wrong, but steam ovens also are excellent for reheating food without drying it out and they cook fast.” She adds that, because almost all built-in steam ovens are combi-ovens with traditional oven cooking capabilities, having a steam oven is a great way to get a second oven in a kitchen without forfeiting too much space.

For Gaggenau, the modern kitchen represents the harmonious interplay of cooking, living and entertaining, Stevenson says. The modularity of the company’s integrated Vario 400 Series Downdraft Ventilation system allows for both customized cooktops and design flexibility.

“Creating a social space within the kitchen, where the host can face guests and family members while cooking, becomes one of the hallmarks of this new downdraft without distraction to the senses,” he comments. Island cooking in an open-plan space, Stevenson notes, “presents a progressive alternative to the traditional range and hood placement against a wall.”

While variety in cooking styles and capabilities is essential, induction continues to gain traction. “With recent government incentives and general buzz, more and more consumers are curious about induction cooking appliances and are considering making the switch at home,” Smith reports. “Induction cooking is highly reactive and has the most accurate temperature control out of any cooking method out there. Families, especially those with younger kids, see the safety benefits of induction as another reason to purchase. With induction, the surrounding cooktop surface does not generate heat, and once pots and pans are removed from the cooking area, it begins to rapidly cool.”

“Induction cooking is probably the biggest trend we’re watching right now,” agrees Mercadante. “Induction ranges and cooktops have been available in the U.S. for two decades, but as more and more cities and states ban the installation of gas cooking appliances, consumers are becoming more aware of induction even outside of these regulated areas. Induction is precise, fast, even and – without any gas or fire – it’s very safe. It’s also extremely energy efficient and better for indoor air quality,” she says.

“Induction ranges are becoming more popular now that professional cooks have embraced the technology for their homes,” Haber adds.

Connected cooking appliances are in high demand, but manufacturers say that the technology must be simple to use and add value to the process. “Appliances are becoming more intuitive,” notes Van Leeuwen.

“When it comes to technology and appliances, designing a seamless user experience with intuitive integration is critical,” Smith stresses. “Features like touchscreen control and WiFi compatibility are becoming more and more expected. Some people get overwhelmed by touchscreen appliances, but when the interface is straightforward, showcases clear images and enhances the cooking process, consumers really love it.”

Kim says smart features are quickly becoming a must-have, offering increased connectivity and convenience. “Consumers want to be connected to their kitchen and home regardless of where they are. Appliances should provide users the ability to control key functions, as well as inform the user when different activities occur,” he believes.

Additionally, he says, there’s interest in guided cooking capabilities. “In a fast-paced world, it’s important customers have cooking products that enable them to produce perfect meals with ease, every time.”

“Good technology in an appliance will help a novice cook develop confidence and an experienced cook create even better meals,” offers Mercadante. “Take, for example, an oven with a touchscreen food-driven menu. You can tell the oven what you’re cooking and what the weight is and the oven will set the right time and temperature. This technology allows a cook to experiment with new and complex recipes and they can depend on the appliance to help them succeed.”

When it comes to integrating technology in the kitchen, Stevenson goes on to say, “for Gaggenau, technology cannot be in your face, but rather an extension of your cooking rituals. When you reach for your oven, technology needs to be there as a helpmate, not just a gimmick.”

Stainless is a longstanding choice for sleek, professional-looking appliances, and is more a standard option than a trend. Color and texture top current trends, along with a continued move toward integrated appliances that smoothly blend into their surroundings.

Shi says tempered glass on cooktop surfaces or range panels is trending. “Even though tempered glass’ application isn’t strange to most consumers, using it on cooktops is quite rare,” she reports. “Additionally, when you look to purchase a colorful refrigerator, dishwasher, range hood or oven, you might want to also match them with the cooktop or range with the same elements.”

Matte finishes are also on the rise, Mercadante states. “Matte finishes are having more than just a moment, and matte glass wall oven doors are a particularly beautiful way to bring this trend into your kitchen. A dark matte glass front on ovens looks especially rich in a wood-tone kitchen, blends seamlessly into dark cabinetry, and creates an interesting focal point in a light kitchen,” she comments.

There is also a move toward various colors, including black as well as bolder choices. “Color remains a trend,” offers Haber. “Whether it’s matching tile backsplashes or playing off the cabinet hardware, kitchen designers and homeowners love having more options than just stainless.”

“Color is having a moment,” agrees Smith. “Red in particular is showing up in more kitchen projects. Our classic freestanding range is available in a striking red hue for those who are embracing bolder colors. There’s also something quite familiar and traditional about this trend as well.” Additionally, she adds, black finishes are getting some time in the spotlight.

Brass is also gaining popularity, according to Van Leeuwen.

While many finishes are meant to stand out, some manufacturers say there’s also a desire to have appliances blend into the space. “We have seen an increase in the desire for hidden and seamlessly integrated appliances,” remarks Kim. “Across our product range, Dacor offers truly flush installation so appliances blend in seamlessly with surrounding cabinetry and countertops.” ▪

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