The kitchen appliance sector was well represented at EuroCucina/FTK at Fiera Rho Milano. Although the total percentage of appliance manufacturers displaying at EuroCucina that serve the US market is limited, there was much to consider for design professionals with US clientele. The noteworthy trends seen at the show included a wide spectrum of colorful finish options from matte black and matte white to blue, yellow, green and more, integrated (view-saving) downdraft ventilation systems, Wi-Fi connectivity, ‘burnerless’ induction cooking surfaces that track pot movement in real time, integrated infrared/AI sensors that take the guesswork out of cooking and food preservation and sleek, compact outdoor cooking equipment.
Fulgor Milano Evoque range. Photo: Fulgor Milano
Fulgor Milano launched the Evoque Collection, which upholds the company’s high-performance standards for their professional styled ranges but is wrapped in a beautiful exterior package making it a focal point in any kitchen at an attractive price point. Available in both gas and induction (with bridge elements), sizes 36”, 48” and 60” and comes in matte black, ivory and white as well as gloss white and gloss black with brushed brass and nickel/chrome finishes for the accent trim. Coordinating range hoods are also in the works.
Fulgor Milano Enova induction cooktop. Photo: Fulgor Milano
Also on display were the Enova induction cooktops, with a minimalistic raised stainless frame (available in matte black, satin aluminum and brushed brass), which many consider a fresh departure from the imbedded cooktop installation trend along with control knobs rather than electronic slide controls. The Enova cooktops are powerful, energy efficient, and possess multiple cooking functions including warm, max power and bridge zones for optimal cooking flexibility.
Gaggenau Expressive Series wall oven. Photo: Gaggenau
Gaggenau debuted the Expressive Series of cooking appliances, within the gardens of the famous Bauhaus styled Villa Necchi Campiglio in the heart of Milan. No site could have been more befitting to this exquisite, minimalistic yet sculpturally styled line that is as beautiful on the outside as it is functional on the inside. Available in a wall oven, combi steam oven, combi microwave oven, built-in coffee machine and culinary warming drawer.
Gaggenau Vario cooling Expressive Series refrigeration. Photo: Gaggenau
The Expressive Series extends to refrigeration and wine preservation. Beautifully designed, these units treat their contents like a fine hotel would treat its guests, with care. Especially notable are the infrared sensors in the wine columns that read the temperature inside the wine bottle, allowing the consumer to dial in their temperature preferences.
SMEG new logo. Photo: Molly McCabe
Smeg has revamped their logo for the American market and revealed the new Aesthetic Series professional range available in 30” and 36” widths with an induction cooking surface or gas, both with electric ovens. This range has enhanced features from prior offerings with lighted control knobs, Wi-fi connectivity, steam assist, scroll display, probe and beautiful knurled oven door handle. Available in stainless, matte black and matte white with a coordinating exhaust hood.
SMEG Pro Grill. Photo: SMEG
Smeg has made an elegant entry into the outdoor kitchen market with the Smeg Compact, Power and Pro Electric grills. Touted for ease of operation and safety, these grills are sized to be proportional to a variety of spaces from a small balcony to a larger patio. Made with AISI 316 stainless steel for weather resistance and low maintenance requirements.
SKS Wine Column. Photo: SKS
SKS is targeting the US market with a 24-inch, three-zone Integrated Wine Column, featuring Wine Cave Technology™, mimicking the temperature, humidity, and light exposure of a classic wine cave. Tinted, triple-pane glass protects the content of the wine tower and knocking twice on the door glass activates the InstaView™ LED interior lighting, allowing one to view the contents without opening the door, retaining optimal storage conditions.
SKS Combi Wall Oven. Photo: SKS
SKS also presented a Combi Wall Oven that packs a lot of functionality into a single space. Cooking modes include convection baking, air frying, steaming, microwave, AI in the oven door glass to assist the home cook in avoiding overcooking foods and Speed-Clean™ allowing the user to clean the oven in under 15 minutes with no elbow grease required. SKS appliances are WiFi enabled allowing consumers to connect with LG’s ThinQ® technology for an enhanced meal prep experience.
—Molly McCabe, AKBD, CLIPP, CGP is owner and principal designer of McCabe By Design LLC
