Chef's pleasure

A good set of tools generally makes a job easier, and the same can be said for preparing and cooking a meal. The whole process is likely to be smoother and more enjoyable when the appliances function well and are easy to operate.

Kitchen'Things kitchen designer Michael Forester says Smeg appliances are popular with homeowners because of their contemporary styling and simple operation.

"The company's after-sales service is also extremely good, which is important," he says.

Forester has selected Smeg appliances for two of the demonstration kitchens in the new Kitchen'Things showroom in Mt Eden.

"One of the things people like about the Smeg range is the large choice and the affordability. There are many different models and sizes to select from," the kitchen designer says.

Imported from Italy, the Smeg range includes ovens, hobs, rangehoods, dishwashers, microwaves, refrigerators and laundry appliances. Many are available in a variety of sizes and styles. Homeowners can choose from the large range of freestanding ovens, 60cm-, 70cm- or 90cm-wide single ovens, and double ovens. Black, white and stainless steel finishes are the latest trend, and, depending on your requirements, ovens offer between four and 12 different cooking functions.

Most of us dislike cleaning the oven, so Smeg includes eight pyrolitic ovens models in its collection. Using little power, the oven heats to 500°C and burns off any fat or residue, leaving a small amount of dust to wipe out at the end of the pyrolitic process.

Gas, ceramic and induction hobs, available in various sizes, are designed to complement oven styling. Smeg's large range of induction cooktops offers faster and more efficient cooking. Forester says he finds that customers who know about induction cooking ask more about these models.

Also designed to match the rest of the kitchen are stainless steel finish, semi- or fully integrated dishwashers. And for the extra-small or apartment kitchen where space is at a premium, Smeg offers several compact 45cm wide models.

The Comprex kitchen shown here features the Smeg horizontal 90cm-wide dishwasher. This model has a stainless steel interior, 12 place settings and is fully integrated.

"Because Smeg's range of appliances is so wide, it is easy to design it into most kitchens," says Forester.

Combination microwaves that offer grill and convection cooking options are a strong feature in the Smeg range. And to ensure a neat fit in the kitchen, Smeg also supplies matching trim kits.

Side-by-side stainless steel refrigerator/freezers, or Smeg's retro refrigerator/freezers, available in a wide range of colours, complete the kitchen picture.

The choice continues into the laundry with 5kg, 6.5kg and 7.5kg front-loading washing machines and matching 6kg tumble and condenser dryers.

For more information on Smeg appliances, visit the website: www.applico.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas