Sub-Zero and Wolf Expand International Presence
- Appliance leaders offer new products, showrooms to international community -

Sub-Zero & Wolf, leading manufacturers of luxury kitchen appliances, announce continued global expansion with the introduction of new products and showrooms. More than 65 years since its inception, Sub-Zero’s growth in the international market is a testament to the company’s dedication to providing consumers with meticulously crafted products. 

“We are thrilled to not only be able to introduce new products into international markets this year, but also provide consumers and designers with an interactive and  sensory experience in our showrooms,” said Michele Bedard, vice president of marketing for Sub-Zero and Wolf.  “We find that the interaction consumers have in a showroom setting affords a better vision and sense of confidence when it comes to incorporating products into designs. It’s extremely gratifying to be able to extend this one-of-a kind brand experience to consumers worldwide on over 50 highly appointed Sub-Zero and Wolf showrooms.”

Since 2009, multiple international showrooms have opened including locations in Australia, Milan, Beijing, London, Mexico City, and Brussels. Last year, the company opened three new showrooms Chicago, Singapore, Tel Aviv, and Jakarta and will add Atlanta and Dallas to the list in 2012. International growth has also strengthened the network of dedicated distributors and dealers, a cornerstone of the company’s business.

“Our ability to expand internationally is largely due to our superior team of dedicated foreign partners,” said Jim Bakke, president and chief executive officer of Sub-Zero and Wolf.
The company’s expansion endeavors are also strong in the U.S.A. where it opened a 440,000 square foot production facility in Goodyear, Arizona in 2011. The plant, purchased as a supplement to the company’s Phoenix-based plant, employs several hundred people and currently manufactures all Sub-Zero branded products except the built-in line, which continues to be produced in Fitchburg, Wisconsin.

Sub-Zero and Wolf will also partner with Italian-based distributor Frigo2000 in April to host a cocktail reception at Fuori Salone 2012, which coincides with EuroCucina, the internationally renowned design event held in Milan.

 

Wolf, the leading manufacturer of high-end, cooking appliances, has launched the new black glass E-Series single and double oven. This sleek, black glass option offers an updated and versatile look whilst maintaining all of the outstanding functions and performance of the original E Series oven.

Coupled with matching black glass warming drawer and tubular handles, the new Wolf black glass provides the ultimate in home cooking and serving appliances, whilst ensuring you make a design statement.

The new Wolf Black Glass model will be available in the first quarter of 2012 Priced as the original E-Series models, starting from £3,852 including VAT

Sub-Zero and Wolf, the leading manufacturer of premium refrigeration and cooking appliances worldwide, is synonymous with state-of-the art kitchen technology delivering specialist culinary results in the home without compromising on style or luxury. Sub-Zero & Wolf are delighted to once again work with Marazzi Design in creating the exclusive ‘Colosseo Oro’ kitchen at this years 100% Design. The “Colosseo Oro” will be a limited edition series of ten individually engineered kitchens including Sub-Zero Built-In Refrigeration, Sub-Zero Wine Storage and Wolf ovens, hobs, microwaves and warming drawers.

Designed to create the most exclusive workplace for the at-home cook, the Colosseo Oro uses intelligent design, bold colours and sleek lines to create a true design statement. Sub-Zero & Wolf refrigeration and cooking appliances have been individually selected to provide the best culinary results whilst their iconic style ensures the Colosseo Oro is the ultimate in kitchen design. 

Sub-Zero & Wolf products featured on the Colosseo Oro

Built-In All Freezer, model ICBBI36F/S/TH-LH

The Sub-Zero ICBBI-36F offers a cavernous 640 cubic litre capacity with three adjustable wire shelves, three storage drawers and five adjustable door shelves. An internal Sub-Zero water filter comes as standard and this advanced system removes not only suspended particles from the water, but also viruses, bacteria and chemical pollutants – contaminants other filters miss.

Price: £7,836 including VAT

Built-In All Refrigerator, model ICBBI36R/S/TH-RH

The Sub-Zero Built-In All Refrigerator makes food easy to organise with adjustable glass shelves, door shelves and other compartments. Keep food fresher longer with new NASA air purification system that scrubs the air of bacteria and mould.

Price: £7,500 including VAT  

Full-Size Wine Storage, model ICBWS30/S/TH-LH

The largest of the wine storage units from Sub-Zero, the WS30 can store up to 147 bottles, 50 in the upper compartment and 97 in the lower. Unique to Sub-Zero, each wine storage unit contains two separate temperature zones which are tightly sealed and digitally controlled to keep humidity levels balanced. Temperatures are monitored within 1 degree of their setting and the unit can be attached to an alarm to safeguard the valued collection. 

Price: £7,872 including VAT

Built-In Over-and-Under Fridge/Freezer, model ICBBI30U/S/TH-LH

The Over-and-Under fridge/freezer from Sub-Zero offers easy access to refrigerated storage and a roll-out freezer drawer. Sub-Zero dual refrigeration along with NASA air purification and water filtration system guard the freshness of your food like nothing before.  Both overlay and stainless steel models are available and the new flush inset design installation allows the unit to sit flush with the surrounding cabinetry.

Price: £9,708 including VAT

E Series Built-In Double Oven, model ICBDO30-2U/S-TH

The Wolf E-Series Double Oven features 10 cooking modes as well as dual convection fans in the upper oven to ensure even heat distribution. The built-in design allows the front of the oven to be installed flush with surrounding cabinetry for a more integrated look.

Price: £5,946 including VAT

E Series Built-In Single Oven, model ICBSO30-2U/S-TH

The Wolf E-Series Single Oven features 10 cooking modes as well as dual convection fans in the upper oven to ensure even heat distribution. The built-in design allows the front of the oven to be installed flush with surrounding cabinetry for a more integrated look.

Price: £3,852 including VAT

Convection Microwave with Grill, model ICBMW30-240

The Built In Convection Microwave from Wolf offers a 40L capacity with 5 auto cook settings, energy save mode, 10 convection temperature settings and a removable low rack for broiling.

Price: £1,500 including VAT

Unframed Electric Cooktop, model ICBCT30EU

This black ceramic electric cooktop offers a sleek design to hide any unsightly scratches and can be mounted flush with the countertop. The elements use high-frequency pulsation technology for consistent heating and the temperature limiter ensures that the temperature of the glass-ceramic surface is never exceeded.

Price: £1,776 including VAT

Warming Drawer, model ICBWWD30

The superior air control of the Wolf warming drawer helps keep moist food moist and crisp food crisp. You can choose from two finishes, including the classic stainless steel or a custom wood panel. Electronic controls are hidden to allow the unit to become completely integrated with the surrounding cabinetry. 

Price: £1,812 including VAT

For further press information and images please contact Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart
Tel: 020 7584 1744 email:
subzero@parkerhobart.com

Premium appliance brand Sub-Zero & Wolf has joined forces with Marazzi Design to create the exclusive Colosseo Oro kitchen. The “Colosseo Oro” will be produced as a limited edition run of just ten individually engineered kitchens all made to a simple design brief, to celebrate the kitchen by crafting the most exclusive workplace for the at-home cook. Unveiled at 100% Design 2011, the Colosseo Oro uses intelligent design and iconic, state-of-the-art appliances provided by Sub-Zero & Wolf. Bold colours, sleek lines, bespoke cabinetry, and opulent, hand-applied finishes create the ultimate home kitchen without compromising on style.

Marazzi Designs’ daring and dynamic style uses a newly developed composite of hand-chosen materials in striking gold and red to add opulence and depth. Finishes include metallic gloss chameleon lacquers, 24 carat gold leafing, Venetian inked stained gold glass and crocodile embossed leather. Cabinetry and surfaces are finished with 12 coats of clear lacquer applied by hand and finished with glitter to create a unique design statement, Swarovski crystal lights complete the effect.

The design of Colosseo Oro removes the confining planes of wall facing kitchens to create a futuristic open plan cooking space. A detached circular island forms the hub of the kitchen and creates the best cooking environment for the at-home chef. The circular design is built to compliment the natural twisting ergonomic movement of the body and all of the carefully chosen appliances are fully integrated around the cook, ensuring everything is to hand. An outer circle surrounding the island creates the perfect place for friends and family to sit and chat whilst dinner is prepared, reflecting the increased use of the kitchen as the heart of a family home.

Premium refrigeration and cooking appliances provided by Sub-Zero and Wolf ensures the kitchen has the most modern and state-of-the art technology to deliver the best culinary results, without compromising on style or luxury. The Colosseo Oro includes Sub-Zero Built-In Refrigeration, using technology initially developed by NASA and a unique air-purification system to aid food preservation, food remains fresher and tastes better for longer. The full-size Sub-Zero Wine Storage unit combines high-quality design with premium storage. Every bottle of wine is kept at optimum cellar and serving conditions whilst beautifully displaying the collection to create a focal point within the kitchen. Wolf E Series Ovens guarantee the at-home chef can create culinary masterpieces using the very best cooking technology. The oven offers a choice of ten cooking modes, three removable racks with full-extension bottom rack and Wolf’s unique cobalt blue porcelain interior to increase visibility whilst cooking to ensure every meal is cooked to perfection.

Creating iconic design-led kitchens for over 18 years, designer Paul Marazzi describes his vision behind the design, “I feel a kitchen should have a soul and presence, transforming the room into an emotional experience, a celebration of family life and convivial living, transcending the kitchen into the heart and soul of the home”. Price available upon request, please visit www.marazzidesign.com for further information
 
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For further press information and images please contact Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart
Tel: 020 7584 1744
email: subzero@parkerhobart.com

Notes to editors

• Marazzi Design are Winners of Sub-Zero & Wolf’s Best of the Best International Design Europe award in 2010.

• The Colosseo Oro is a limited edition extension of Marrazi Designs’ 2010 ‘Best of the Best' award winning Colosseo design.

• Sub-Zero & Wolf and Marazzi Design have worked together for 7 years.

• Sub-Zero & Wolf products featured on the Colosseo Oro include Sub-Zero ICBBI36F/S/TH-LH – All Freezer; ICBBI36R/S/TH-RH – All Refrigerator; ICBWS30/S/TH-LH – full-size wine storage; ICBBI30U/S/TH-LH – over and under. Wolf ICBDO30-2U/S-TH – built-in double oven; ICBSO30-2U/S-TH – built-in single oven; ICBMW30-240 - convection microwave with grill; ICBCT30EU – unframed elective cooktop, 4 burner; ICBWWD30 – 762mm warming drawer

Sub-Zero & Wolf announces the opening of ‘The Subterranean Studio’, a striking and very British extension of their Brompton Road Living Kitchen. Sub-Zero & Wolf have worked with the best in bespoke interiors to create the new Subterranean Studio, a design destination to relax and experience the benefits of Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances in an inspirational living space. Heavily influenced by traditional British style, the dramatic interior includes a wood-panelled study, cigar room, cocktail bar, subterranean garden and a Living Kitchen for Sub-Zero & Wolf’s live cooking demonstrations. 

Brought together by interior designer Ann Brookman, the studio takes traditional influences such as the British Gentleman’s Club, Winston Churchill and London market stalls and mixes them with modern vibrant colours and art deco touches. The blend of influences perfectly complements the strong, contemporary style so synonymous with Sub-Zero’s state-of-the-art refrigeration and Wolf’s premium cooking appliances.

The kitchen forms the heart of the new space; Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances are beautifully integrated behind cabinetry crafted from the finest hand picked American Black Walnut by the Bespoke Furniture Company. The iconic red knobs of the Wolf Dual Fuel Range create a focal point and are complemented by hand-stitched leather handles and granite worktops from Stone Theatre. A stunning 4.65m dining table leads off from the kitchen seating up to 24 people. Beautifully set with elegant NewWave tableware from Villeroy & Boch, the dining area provides the perfect setting for private Subterranean Supper Clubs hosted throughout the year in collaboration with celebrity chef’s and Friends of Sub-Zero & Wolf…. the hottest new ticket in town!

The Study and Cigar Room echo English Gentleman’s clubs of old and pay tribute to British icon Winston Churchill. Low level oak panelling, designed exclusively by Ann Brookman and Osborne of Ilkeston, frames the study walls with a striking bespoke Scottish Gothic fire surround hand carved from Bath Limestone by Templestone Masonry Ltd to include a copy of the original crest on the front of the building. 

Winston Churchill’s iconic silhouette appears on the glass doors of a striking archway leading to the Cigar Room. A secret brandy cabinet created by the Bespoke Furniture Company for the Cigar Room really encapsulates the innovative spirit of The Subterranean Studio. Both spaces create an atmospheric area in which to relax and discover more about Sub-Zero & Wolf ….whilst enjoying a glass of the finest!

The Bar, created by Ann Brookman and the Bespoke Furniture Company, uses modern, chunky stainless steel which beautifully complements the Sub-Zero & Wolf wine storage. The most striking element of the new bar is the mirrored display unit positioned within a rustic brick arch at the back of the bar. It promises to boast a range of interesting and unique spirits every night of the week and create a real talking point when illuminated.

Beyond the Studio, designer Ann Brookman and Craig Davies (President and CEO Europe for Sub-Zero and Wolf), have created a decked subterranean garden with three archways inspired by London street scenes. 

 

No Sub-Zero & Wolf space would be complete without state-of-the-art lighting and audio technology. A custom designed interface created by AV Photon and controlled by i-pad and i-phone adjusts the lighting and audio throughout, including a bespoke mirror that doubles up as a TV.

To launch The Subterranean Studio, Sub-Zero & Wolf will be holding a series of invitation-only Supper Clubs every Thursday throughout September, each hosted by a celebrity chef and a Friend of Sub-Zero & Wolf.  Log onto www.subzero-wolf.co.uk or follow us at twitter.com/subzerowolfuk for updates on further Sub-Zero & Wolf Subterranean Supper Clubs throughout the year.

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For more information on The Subterranean Studio and the exclusive Supper Clubs

please contact the Sub-Zero & Wolf team at Parker Hobart on

 

subzero@parkerhobart.com or 020 7584 1744

 

Sub-Zero and Wolf would like to thank their partners in this exciting new project:

 

Ann Brookman Interiors Ltd.                                                                Bespoke Furniture Co

Ann Brookman                                                                                   01202 594 444

07711 944 211                                                                                   www.bespokefurniturecompany.co.uk

Villeroy & Boch Tableware                                                                   Stone Theatre

0208 875 6060                                                                                   020 7021 0020

www.villeroy-boch.com                                                                       www.stonetheatre.com

Osborne of Ilkeston                                                                            Templestone Masonry Ltd.

0115 930 7601                                                                                   01963 350 242

www.osborneofilkeston.co.uk                                                              www.templestone.co.uk

Photon AV                                                                                         Duvel

0113 350 4569                                                                                   020 7729 7216

www.photonav.co.uk                                                                          www.duvel.be

Firefly Tonics                                                                                     Nespresso

020 7052 9720                                                                                  0800 442 442

www.fireflytonics.com                                                                        www.nespresso.com

 

 

Peace of mind just got more peaceful Sub-Zero & Wolf introduce one of the strongest warranties on the market.   

When it comes to buying a new refrigerator, wine cooler or cooking appliance, Sub-Zero and Wolf are the smart choice for any discerning kitchen goddess or aspiring kitchen guru. Choosing a Sub-Zero and Wolf appliance means that you can rest assured in the knowledge that you are investing in a product crafted to the highest quality, created to provide you with superb and lasting performance.
For kitchen designers and consumers in the know, Sub-Zero and Wolf have been a smart investment for over 60 years. Now a smart investment just got smarter with Sub-Zero and Wolf’s extended warranty offer. All appliances purchased and delivered from the 1st of July 2011 to 31st December 2011, now come complete with one of the strongest warranties on the market.

For Sub-Zero the warranty now extends to 5 Years Parts & Labour and 10 years for the Sealed System*. Wolf appliance warranties now extend to 5 Years, Parts & Labour.

When selecting appliances for the hub of any modern home it makes sense to choose wisely, secure in the knowledge and comfort that you have invested in appliances of the highest quality, with the best warranty available. Regardless of your kitchen style, it always pays to choose Sub-Zero and Wolf.

*Sealed system comprises of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, filter drier, and all connecting tubing.

For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com
For kitchen designers and consumers in the know, Sub-Zero and Wolf have been a smart investment for over 60 years. Now a smart investment just got smarter with Sub-Zero and Wolf’s extended warranty offer. All appliances purchased and delivered from the 1st of July 2011 to 31st December 2011, now come complete with one of the strongest warranties on the market.
For Sub-Zero the warranty now extends to 5 Years Parts & Labour and 10 years for the Sealed System*. Wolf appliance warranties now extend to 5 Years, Parts & Labour.

When selecting appliances for the hub of any modern home it makes sense to choose wisely, secure in the knowledge and comfort that you have invested in appliances of the highest quality, with the best warranty available. Regardless of your kitchen style, it always pays to choose Sub-Zero and Wolf.

*Sealed system comprises of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, filter drier, and all connecting tubing.

For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com
For Sub-Zero the warranty now extends to 5 Years Parts & Labour and 10 years for the Sealed System*. Wolf appliance warranties now extend to 5 Years, Parts & Labour.
When selecting appliances for the hub of any modern home it makes sense to choose wisely, secure in the knowledge and comfort that you have invested in appliances of the highest quality, with the best warranty available. Regardless of your kitchen style, it always pays to choose Sub-Zero and Wolf.

*Sealed system comprises of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, filter drier, and all connecting tubing.

For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com
When selecting appliances for the hub of any modern home it makes sense to choose wisely, secure in the knowledge and comfort that you have invested in appliances of the highest quality, with the best warranty available. Regardless of your kitchen style, it always pays to choose Sub-Zero and Wolf.
*Sealed system comprises of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, filter drier, and all connecting tubing.

For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com
*Sealed system comprises of the compressor, condenser, evaporator, filter drier, and all connecting tubing.
For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com
For further information please contact Rosie Harkness, Laura Blake or Lindsay McInnis at Parker Hobart Associates Tel: 020 7584 1744 email: subzero@parkerhobart.com

 

 

We are all aware of what a difference our carbon footprint can make to the world, and now more than ever it is starting to become an important factor when purchasing a new appliance for the kitchen. The choice of the UKs most discerning chefs, from James Martin to Thomasina Miers, is Sub-Zero & Wolf; the premium range of refrigeration and cooking appliances which eco-conscious cooks can rely on to take care of the environment as well as their culinary creations. We all know that energy efficient appliances cost less to run, help to reduce wastage and are less harmful to the environment.

When it comes to cooking, the Dual Fuel from Wolf is the must-have eco-appliance for 2011. The Dual Fuel only expends energy when in use and the oven doors are tightly sealed to retain heat and energy so that the cooking temperatures do not fluctuate. The single spark ignition of the gas burners ensures that energy is not wasted on un-used burners, but only on the burner you wish to light, whilst dual-stacked sealed burners, patented to Wolf, offer unbeatable temperature control from the lowest melting and simmering settings to ultra-fast boiling. The burners’ auto re-ignition function is safe and efficient and ensures that no cooking time is lost if the gas flame is accidentally extinguished by a gust of wind from an open door or window.      

Long before it was cool to be green, Sub-Zero & Wolf have been pioneering designs which look out for the environment, throughout the manufacturing process and the products life-cycle:    

The raw materials  

• 75% of the stainless steel and 50% of the plastic in Sub-Zero & Wolf’s products are recycled

• Sub-Zero & Wolf utilises electric vehicles at its production plant, reducing the use of fossil fuel

• The company is continuing to eliminate the painting process at the manufacturing facilities by working with suppliers to develop environmentally responsible, non VOC coatings

Efficiency in use

If everyone in the UK upgraded their cold appliances to Energy Saving Recommended products, it would save over £700 million worth of electricity every year. Enough CO2 would be saved annually to fill the Royal Albert Hall 15,000 times and the electricity saved each year could power the UK's street lighting for 3 years.1 Quite a statistic! Happily, when cooking with Wolf, its clever heat control systems ensure energy and cooking time are both conserved, while refrigeration by Sub-Zero features Dual Refrigeration; Air Purification based on technology developed by NASA and Adaptive Defrost Technology, preventing fluctuations in temperature and power usage, while extending the life of your fresh and frozen foods.  

• As result, even the largest Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances use less electricity than a 100 watt light bulb! The dual refrigeration system even requires less energy to power than single compressor brands, which force the compressor to work ‘flat out’ to try to maintain even refrigeration and freezer set temperatures

• Every Sub-Zero Fridge/Freezer utilises a Dual Refrigeration system compromising of two separate compressors which ensures the cool, humid air contained in the fridge is kept within its own compartment and the cold, dry air from the freezer does not circulate into the refrigerator

 

• The Dual Refrigeration system eradicates any unwanted odours or flavours from the refrigerator and maintains even temperatures in both compartments thereby extending the life of your fresh and frozen foods  

Preserving food  

A hot topic of the last few years, food waste not only contributes to environmental impact of over-farming but overloads the UK’s landfills.   

• 8.3 million tonnes of food is thrown away by households in the UK every year2
• If we all stop wasting food that could have been eaten, the CO2 impact would be the equivalent of taking 1 in 4 cars off the road2

• While newly released statistics reveal that every day, five million potatoes, 4.4 million apples, a million loaves of bread and a million slices of ham are thrown into the UK’s bins untouched3

Sub-Zero & Wolf’s dual refrigeration means that two compressors share the work – with the dual benefits of energy saving and keeping perishables safe. Meanwhile air purification systems remove the odour, bacteria and ethylene gas which cause foods to spoil faster.  

Built to last  

Sub-Zero & Wolf’s appliances are built to last, not be land-filled. All Sub-Zero & Wolf appliances show their value through reliability year after year.  

• It is common for customers to be using the same Sub-Zero refrigeration after 20 years. With products built from the highest quality materials and designed to provide unbeatable performance, customers can feel at ease knowing every product bearing the Sub-Zero & Wolf name is not only an investment for your kitchen, but an investment for life

The kitchen is arguably becoming the most technological zone in our homes where we rely on gadgets and cooking appliances to improve the quality of our lives. Not only is it a hub for sophisticated design but it is also the heart of the home and central to how we live and interact with each other.

Refrigerators were uncommon in post-war Britain and seen as a luxury. In an era of futurism with a fascination for technology, society of that time dreamt of the ‘kitchen of the future’. This futuristic kitchen boasted timed ovens, food processors, automatic chopping devices, juicers and big American-style fridges; some of which are now either pre-requisite or the norm. Using their expert knowledge and brand heritage as the worldwide leader in premium refrigeration and cooking appliances, Sub-Zero & Wolf takes a look into how the kitchen has evolved and here they forecast the emerging trends for 2011 and beyond.

The Way We Were     

It is important to look at the way we were and the story of kitchen design before discussing our present and future habits. Prior to the 1950’s kitchens were long ignored by design professionals and were often drab, unsanitary and obscured from view, separated from the other living areas of the home. When the ‘decade of domesticity’ was born in the 1950’s and seeing a post-war baby boom and more importance placed on family, there was a natural re-focus on the kitchen and an expectation that it should not only be functional and efficient but stylish too. This change was also brought about by domestic influencers, progressive architects, manufacturers and utility suppliers who began to reinvent the space combined with the benefits of the advancement in technology and materials. The development of technology and in appliances in particular during the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s, allowed wider freedom for kitchen design with the gradual introduction of integrated and built-in refrigerators, meaning kitchens that were becoming sleeker, more contemporary and design-led.        

In the 1990’s homebuilders started to offer ‘semi-open-plan’ schemes in order to maximise the space and use of light.  The kitchen / diner / living areas were combined as a reflection of how rooms were being used socially with more time being spent cooking and entertaining. However, the kitchen was still not the prime focus of the home with available budget usually being spent and invested in other areas.

The Way We Live Now: 2011

Even the way people were using their kitchens 10 or 15 years ago is different to what it is today. This part of the home has now become a key part of our lifestyle and due importance is placed on its effect on how we function. It is a place in which to ‘live’ and where we spend a considerable amount of time, meaning that increased resources such as space, thought and budget are being attributed as a result. Often referred to as the ‘hub’ or ‘heart’ of the home, the kitchen hosts family meals, an area for homework, social gatherings, dinner parties and also a television; making it not only the physical ‘hub’ but an emotional and social one too. Open plan living has evolved even further with the kitchen becoming fully integrated into the living room or dining room often taking on the same interior scheme.   

Personality Plus

Forget the factory, mass-produced, flat-packed kitchen of the eighties and nineties. Kitchens today are all about personality and the amount of choice now on offer enables us to create a space which reflects what we want to say about ourselves and our lifestyle. Bespoke has also been a big buzz word over the last year however you don’t now have to spend a fortune to achieve the bespoke look with a wide variety of materials, colours, technology and designs on offer.   

Lighting Fixtures 

Earlier on we referred to kitchens as “often drab… and obscured from view”, today they are lit up like beacons in pride of place. Clever little design tricks such as under-cabinet dimmers, spotlights on the floor or under-lighting around the unit edging all help to manipulate the light and play with the space. Statement lighting in the kitchen has risen in popularity with dramatic chandeliers looking at home, often bringing colour and contrast to an otherwise minimalist scheme or bringing a contemporary touch to a traditional interior.  

Noble Materials

Today’s kitchens celebrate noble materials such as wood, stone and metal that are often combined together to emphasise unique and individual design.

Wood

Cabinets are painted but not distressed, overly glazed or embellished. Painted finishes show brushstrokes rather than a sprayed, manufactured finish. Richly patterned grains are prominent with walnut, rift cut oak, Makassar ebony, anigre and other wildly patterned woods becoming more common than slight and subtle grains.

Stone

Natural stone continues to reign as the countertop of choice, with marble being the most popular in high-end homes. As with wood, striking veining and patterned stone are in style, evoking thoughts of how the stone was formed, its origin and the natural elements that formed it. The material’s natural state is further emphasised with rough and unpolished edges often showcased. Impressive, full slabs of stone are used as splashbacks, creating a focal point.

Metal

Stainless steel continues to be used in appliances, as it represents a strong and dependable element whilst also giving a reassuringly industrial feel that offers quality and performance. While polished nickel is still king, this glossy finish is waning in popularity as more natural, understated finishes such as silvery and brassy bronzes, un-lacquered brasses and matte golds increase in desirability. 

Eco Credentials

It would be impossible not to mention ‘eco’ or ‘green’ as a key factor and key consumer motivator when looking to buy a new kitchen or to update appliances. Eco-credentials can no longer be ignored by brands and is becoming an integral and prerequisite of any company that is looking to keep in touch with the market and their competitors. A good example of this is that despite the large and industrial-style of Sub-Zero’s iconic refrigerators all of the designs are now energy rated ‘A’ due to the continued dedication and innovation from their team of designers. Paints, finishes and stone sealants are becoming low or VOC free. Cabinets and furniture are also now made from low or VOC free products with little or no formaldehyde. These products are typically more sustainable and use materials such as hay, wheat, eucalyptus, bamboo and aspen. 

Appliances

Consumers are actively seeking refrigerators that filter water and purify the air (a function originally design for NASA that is unique to Sub-Zero) as well as technologies that preserve food for longer, keeping it fresher for better taste and to avoid food wastage.

Microwave ovens are being placed in pantries away from view. Gone are the pop-tarts from the nineties and microwave meals of the noughties. Instead they have been replaced by the farm-to-table food movement and consumers are understanding that fresh and sometimes organic foods are better for us and better for the environment. Freezers are being used less in preference of storing fresh, local foods in the refrigerator. In recent years Wolf has seen sales of their steamers increase as healthy eating becomes more of a priority for many. People are taking joy in cooking again with more time, dedication and the use of more sophisticated equipment as a focus.   

As technology has progressed and designs have become more sophisticated, appliances have become sleeker and more integrated into the kitchen. With the kitchen often as an extension of the dining and / or living room, there is little or no differentiation between rooms and finishes meaning that consumers want appliances that can be seamlessly integrated into a scheme either subtly disguised in the cabinetry or on show in timeless stainless steel offering a flush finish and one that blends effortlessly with other materials.      

The Future: Beyond 2011

Kitchen as the Centre

As the 21st Century unfolds, the kitchen will continue to evolve as the emotional core of the home, not just a spatial one. The understanding will cement itself that this area is central to an individual’s and a family’s general well-being. Both formal and informal dining areas will be accommodated in a larger kitchen space with designers creating environments in response to living in and around the kitchen. These designs consist more than just a functional layout of cabinets and countertops with a feel that is generally more ‘lifestyle’ orientated. 

Integration to the Next Level

While already a key design element of today, integration will be taken to the next level with appliances, fixtures and sinks completely hidden when not in use. Sinks, taps and appliances that retract into countertops will find their place and technology will allow designs and layouts to be flexible and kinetic; this will have particular importance for an aging generation enabling them to remain in the same space and for the space to evolve with their needs.

High-Tech Hub

Technology will free designers to further push the boundaries of kitchen design. Countertops will become a vessel for integrated and intelligent technology displays and control panels creating a centralised point for lighting, music, appliance control and even displaying cooking instructions, apps, digital recipes and cooking videos.  Many smaller countertop appliances will also become plug free. We mentioned purified air as part of Sub-Zero’s refrigerator technology to keep foods fresh, this system will also be applied to the home with ‘pure oxygen’ being circulated for increased well-being.  

The End

We have looked at the past, present and future of the kitchen and have identified this space as the physical and emotional heartbeat of the home where we show-off our personalities and respond to our daily needs. The most desirable kitchens are often the most timeless, either in their sleek minimalist appeal or routed in tasteful traditional styles. The continual development and progression of new materials, design innovation, spatial configurations, technologies and the way we live our lives will continue to push the boundaries and explore new avenues of design for manufacturers, designers and consumers.  

Naturally, some trends come and go and to conclude, here’s our guide to what’s in and what’s out for 2011:

What’s Out and What’s In for 2011?

* Busy patterned wallpaper is gone and floral borders and fruit motifs are banished. Elegant Venetian plasters, stuccos, stained or natural wood and neutral paint colours are all in.

* One tone, stark colour schemes are out; mix and match colour blocking is in, complimented by rich contrasts in raw materials.

* Celebrity chef is king and any home cook can now be king for the day too. With Jamie’s 30 Minute Meals at hand and clever appliances that do the hard work for you. In 2011 there is no excuse for inedible culinary offerings.

* Everyone wants (including celebrity chefs) a gigantic stainless steel spaceship-style fridge and professional looking high-performance ovens. Brightly coloured or patterned appliances that look pretty but don’t really work very well are out. 

* The bar has been raised following the homey supper clubs of 2010. Now Michelin starred chefs and culinary extraordinaires are getting in on the game taking it from a front room dinner to an exclusive foodie experience. 

With thanks to leading designers Mick de Giulio, Jamie Drake and Matthew Quin for their input.

Combining high-quality design with premium storage, Sub-Zero’s wine preservation units are the optimum way to safeguard and display a valued collection of wine until it is ready to be enjoyed. The kitchen equipment experts have taken into consideration all key storage factors including temperature and humidity control, light protection and anti-vibration to pioneer optimum cellar and serving conditions.

The 400 Series wine preservation range has been designed to complement Sub-Zero’s new built-in line of refrigeration for a seamless look, and also includes models that complement Sub-Zero’s 700 series integrated refrigeration. With a range of sizes and configurations, storing from 46 to 147 bottles including half bottles, bottles and magnums, the collection can be kept subtly out of sight or positioned as a design focal point in the kitchen, study or entertaining spaces.

Unique to Sub-Zero, the 400 Series feature two independent storage zones which are tightly sealed and digitally controlled. Within each compartment, ideal humidity control prevents corks from drying out and precise temperature levels are monitored within one degree of pre set temperatures. This important feature cannot be controlled in a cellar, meaning that Sub-Zero’s range of wine storage offers the ability to store both red, white wine and champagne in the same unit. The 400 Series temperature range of 4-18 degrees Celsius is perfect for storing and ageing and importantly, is not as cold as standard refrigeration, which can be harmful to wines and champagnes when they are stored at lower temperatures.

The illuminated display shelves in each model are rust proof and faced with solid cherry wood, which cradles the wine and provides easy access to every bottle. The smooth slide-mechanism shelves glide in and out without unsettling the sediment and even the motor is housed in an anti-vibration device. UV resistance glass doors protect the bottles from harmful rays. Intelligently designed, the unit will indicate if the door is left open, alert when it is scheduled for a service and can even be connected to the home alarm system to safeguard a valued collection.
 
Sub-Zero’s wine preservation units are available as statement design pieces in classic stainless steel finish as freestanding or integrated models and are also available with overlay cabinetry to blend seamlessly into a room design. The 400 Series has been designed to accommodate various spatial requirements, ranging from the new ICBWS-30 model with a substantial capacity of 147 bottles, to the sleek freestanding and compact under counter units with a capacity of 46 bottles.

For added flexibility, the ICB427R combines wine storage with integrated refrigeration drawers below. The 400 Series is most impressive displayed alongside a selection of Sub-Zero’s luxury refrigeration/freezers to create a bank of the ultimate kitchen technology and premium design.

Sub-Zero’s Wine Storage Units are priced from £3,185.50 including VAT

Sub-Zero & Wolf, the worldwide leader in premium refrigeration and cooking appliances has teamed up with design leader Tom Dixon to present a ‘forward thinking’ state-of-the art Sub-Zero and Wolf fitted professional kitchen at the newly launched Dock Kitchen.

With over 60 years experience and as the worldwide leader in luxury appliance design, the iconic American brand is the kitchen equipment of choice for the Dock Kitchen. According to Tom Dixon, “I’m always on the look out for the rare companies that are the best of their kind, that have an independent perspective and stick to their own set of values, that are complementary to our own vision, which is that we should be surrounded by more substantial, longer lasting honest products that are made to last.  That’s why Sub-Zero & Wolf and their robust, industrial-style appliances fit so well in the Dock Kitchen, where we are putting together top quality ingredients from all over the world; including food, furniture, and accessories resulting in a never before seen and unique mix of goods.”

The Dock Kitchen is part of the newly redeveloped Portobello Dock complex which is rapidly evolving into West London’s most innovative hub for design and food lovers.  It is headed up by culinary rising star Stevie Parle and wine industry expert Nick Trower.  With their exacting standards and exceptional talent, they have been instrumental in the exacting requirements for kitchen equipment of the highest calibre.  

The wines are stored in state-of-the art Sub-Zero wine preservation units which are complemented by pioneering refrigeration, also from Sub-Zero. Combining high-quality design with premium storage, Sub-Zero’s wine preservation units are the optimum way to safeguard and display a valued collection of wine until it is ready to be enjoyed.

The kitchen equipment experts have taken into consideration all key storage factors including temperature and humidity control, light protection and anti-vibration to pioneer optimum cellar and serving conditions. The high technology cooking equipment is from sister brand Wolf. 

With its pioneering technology and cutting-edge aesthetics, Wolf has become the must-have appliance brand of choice for the Dock Kitchen.