Cosmopolitan queen

Apartment kitchens often have a different set of requirements than kitchens in stand alone dwellings. Apart from obvious space differences, multi-level apartment buildings must also consider extra questions of fire safety and provide adequate ventilation.

To this end, QV architects approached Major Electrical Appliances to discuss a range of products that would be well suited to the 584 apartments they designed.

Carolyn Hannaford, project manager for Major Electrical appliances, says stainless-steel Blanco cooktops, ovens, rangehoods and dishwashers were chosen because of their built-in safety features,as well as their energy efficiency. Choosing appliances from one producer also ensured the kitchens had complementary aesthetics.

"There were some important considerations to keep in mind when choosing the cooktop. It had to have a wok burner, and it also needed to have a flame-failure feature. This is a fire safety requirement for apartment buildings over five storeys high," says Hannaford.

This safety consideration means that if the flame goes out, the gas automatically shuts off. Other cooktop features, such as one-piece hobs and non-scratch trivets, make cleaning a quick task.

The cooktop is complemented by a Blanco electric oven. This minimalist-style, front-vented oven continues the safety focus with a built-in overheating security system, a cavity cooling system and a 52-litre capacity.

"Preventing unwanted odours in the confined spaces of an apartment is also a paramount concern, which is why a Blanco 52cm fully integrated under-cupboard rangehood was chosen," says Hannaford.

Designed to minimise noise, yet maximise the extraction of grease and steam, this streamlined rangehood measures just 52cm by 28cm, but can extract 450m³/h air, with its three-speed motor.

All QV apartments were fitted with Blanco stainless steel fronted dishwashers. A maximum noise level of 37dB makes these dishwashers well suited to apartment dwelling. Energy efficient as well as quiet, Blanco dishwashers also have water conservation features.

For further details, contact Major Electrical Appliances, 104 Vanessa Street, Kingsgrove, NSW, phone (02) 9503 2888, fax (02) 9503 2810. Email leed@meaappliances.com.au. Website www.meaappliances.com.au.

Story by: Trendsideas