Range cookers offer some great practical benefits and many of our clients absolutely fall in love with their charming and elegant looks, but unfortunately, the range cooker is still sometimes overlooked. We’ve put together this comprehensive guide to demystify the range cooker and to help you decide whether you should consider including one in your beautiful new space.
What is a Modern Range Cooker?
A modern range cooker is stylistically modelled on the traditional cast-iron AGA style cooker but runs off a contemporary fuel source, either gas or electric. Modern range cookers are freestanding and are available in sizes from 70-150cms, with 90, 100 and 110cms being the most common. Their large size allows for multiple oven compartments and a spacious cooktop as well as other handy features such as warming drawers and storage spaces.
Unlike a classic cast-iron range, modern range cookers are available with the latest state-of-the-art cooking technology, including steam cooking and self-cleaning functions. You can choose from either ceramic, gas, or induction hob designs as well as either gas or electric powered ovens. Prices can range from £1000 to £2500 and upwards for the most professional models, bear in mind this price includes your hob and your oven whereas, if you opted for a built-in design, you would buy each separately. Now you know a little more about the modern range cooker, we can take a look at whether it’s the right choice for your home and lifestyle.
The Low-Down On Range Cookers
Gorgeous Looks
Some of our clients absolutely love their range cooker and simply couldn’t live without it, but when it comes to deciding if they’re right for you there are a few things to consider. One of the main reasons many of our customers choose a range cooker is because of their luxurious classic looks. Inspired by the idolised AGA design, modern range cookers emulate charming character and elegance. They come in a huge variety of colours and styles so you can perfectly capture your personality and make a distinctive design statement. With so many options to choose from, modern range cookers can complement even the most sleek contemporary interior.
Cooking Up A Feast
The other reason our clients fall in love with their range cooker is their exceptional practical capabilities. If you have a large family or love hosting fabulous dinner parties, a range cooker is undeniably the way to go. You can choose from a great variety of different layouts to suit your cooking style, while their modern functionality makes cooking quick and convenient. Spacious single oven designs are ideal if you enjoy cooking up big family roasts. For those who delight in creating their own tasting menus, multiple compartments and handy warming drawers are perfect. With models 100cm and upwards you will benefit from at least 7 burners/rings so you can enjoy complete cooking freedom.
Lasting A Lifetime
Good quality range cookers are absolutely built to last. Not only does their freestanding design make them easy to slot into your kitchen, but it also means you can take your cooker with you should you decide to move to a new home.
Choosing a Fuel
Range cookers are available in gas, electric, or dual fuel models. The type of fuel they use will have a big impact on their functionality and running costs, so it is important you choose the right type for you. It’s worth mentioning that modern range cookers are just as efficient as built-in ovens, however, their size can mean they consume more power.
Gas ovens are seen as somewhat old-fashioned and they tend to be a less popular choice, hence there are fewer gas range cookers on the market. Gas ovens don’t cook as evenly but they do create steam which keeps food wonderfully moist. Gas hobs are still popular hence why many opt for the dual fuel design. Natural gas is cheaper than electricity but can be less efficient. In homes without a gas supply, LPG can be used however this can be costly.
Fully electric range cookers will come equipped with either a ceramic or induction hob. Both designs are wonderfully easy to wipe clean and the latest induction hobs are safe, efficient and responsive. Unfortunately, ceramic cooktops tend to be less efficient and overall, many prefer the more in keeping aesthetics of the gas hob design.
Dual fuel is certainly the most popular choice with our clients. It offers the benefits of a responsive and stylish gas cooktop as well as modern and efficient oven technology. The latest models even offer state-of-the-art self-cleaning and steam cooking functions.
Some Of Our Favourite Brands
There are many range cooker brands available to accommodate different styles and budgets. To help you choose, we’ve put together a few of our favourites. Belling is a more affordable brand and with 100 years of experience behind them, their British range cookers offer excellent quality and value for money. Their more traditional farmhouse style design beautifully complements a characterful classic shaker or in-frame kitchen. Smeg’s stylish Italian range cookers vary in price, starting with very reasonable single oven designs. Their superb quality cookers feature more contemporary styling, ideal for a modern home.
Part of the AGA group, Rangemaster cookers are one of the most loved brands in the UK. Their fantastic range cookers are available in a huge variety of designs and colours to suit both classic and modern tastes. Last but not least, Bertazzoni represents the most luxurious and high-end choice. Their professional collection offers impressive functionality as well as breathtakingly flamboyant Italian looks. Whatever your taste and budget there are plenty of different options to choose from.
If you’d like to find out more about whether a range cooker is right for you then please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our kitchen experts at your nearest Classic Interiors showroom. We can talk you through the stylistic and practical details of including a range cooker in your design in more detail as well as answering any questions you might have about your project. Find your nearest showroom or call our head office on 01527 66740.
