So cool it's hot: Gaggenau

Once again Germany’s leading brand of professional-grade domestic appliances has found the balance between clean-lined design and advanced technology. Inspired by imposing architecture, this beautifully pared-down range offers fully integrated, built-in and modular fridges, freezers, fridge-freezers and wine climate cabinets.

For Gaggenau, the range represents a significant step forward. ‘Our new range is more sophisticated yet subtly warmer, with elements that speak the visual language of the home,’ says Lars Dinter, one of the range’s designers. ‘We also continue to build on our reputation for functionality, offering the private chef all the advantages of a professional kitchen, for example, the improved freshness systems.’

With handleless doors furniture fronted or made of stainless steel or glass (for wine climate cabinets), these appliances look their most impressive as an expansive cooling wall. Their assisted opening mechanism means a gentle push is all it takes to open them. ‘The doors take the form of elegant panels, although there is an option for adding handles,’ says Lars. The drawers have a soft self-closing mechanism. Even the ice and water dispenser in the doors automatically illuminate when approached.

Aesthetically, the interior of the new series includes luxurious details. Dark anthracite anodised aluminium elements add richness to the stainless steel lining while etched glass panels ‘have a very smooth, satinised finish, which almost feels like a textile,’ enthuses Lars. ‘Quality of touch is an important design consideration.’

The interior of the wine climate cabinets too, have a seductively warm look. ‘Instead of blond beech, we chose richer, more authentic oak, which recalls the oak barrels that wine is aged in,’ Lars explains. Concealed telescopic rails allow these oak and aluminium bottle trays to fully extend, making access easier.

Gaggenau has also developed highly atmospheric lighting, namely glare-free LED spotlights with five pre-set options that cast a soft, warm glow, to better display a collection. ‘When you’re having dinner and the room is dimly lit, you are subconsciously aware of wine bottles enriching the atmosphere in the background,’ says Lars.

Ultimately Gaggenau’s product development is about progressive change: ‘We don’t introduce novelty for its own sake or to be part of a trend. Every advancement of the Vario cooling 400 series is part of a long-term, considered approach.’

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