Avant garde and timeless: Luxury meets innovation as induction cooktop vanishes into your kitchen countertop
With its cutting-edge design, Gaggenau seamlessly integrates an induction hob into the kitchen's worktop, elegantly blurring the lines between cooking, entertaining and design
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In the world of kitchen design, innovation often marries form and function, giving birth to appliances that redefine the culinary experience.
Gaggenau’s Essential Induction cooktop is a testament to this philosophy, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with a minimalist aesthetic that will leave even the most discerning homeowners in awe.
A masterpiece of discreet luxury in the kitchen
At first glance, the Essential Induction cooktop is a study in simplicity. Free from the clutter of frames, gaps or barriers, the innovative design seemingly vanishes into the countertop, creating a visual continuity that is both striking and serene.
Designed for the discerning cook, the Essential Induction blends clean aesthetics with functionality for an elevated culinary experience. Credit: Gaggenau
A subtle LED “Dot” and beautifully crafted knobs are the only hints of its high-tech prowess. This minimalist approach not only creates a clean, unified aesthetic but also allows the cooktop to become a stylish extension of the living space.
Gaggenau's head of design Sven Baacke says: "The Essential Induction eliminates the boundaries between preparation and living. It offers the ultimate freedom in kitchen planning, which is a revolutionary concept for designers and planners."
The induction cooktop: an architectural showstopper
The Essential Induction is designed for the discerning cook who values both clean aesthetics and functionality. This innovative cooktop is designed to be invisibly integrated exclusively with a specific range of Dekton stone countertops.
Dekton offers stunning design possibilities with its 12mm ultra-compact stone surfaces available in different designs and colours. When paired together with the Essential Induction, it turns dream kitchens into reality.
Its induction modules are concealed beneath the worktop, secured by an under-counter system. Credit: Gaggenau
Furthermore, the cooktop is designed for those who love open kitchen layouts, as they allow for a clean, minimalist aesthetic, without sacrificing functionality. The cooktop itself boasts two convenient cooking zones: a 21cm module ideal for smaller pots and pans, and a larger 28cm module for larger cookware.
To ensure optimal performance with all cookware, Gaggenau offers innovative removable magnetic surface protectors. These protectors silence pan noise, safeguard the countertop against scratches, and ensure optimal induction cooking.
Installation and maintenance on the Essential Induction are a breeze.
An experienced Gaggenau installer will collaborate with a qualified electrician to seamlessly integrate the induction cooktop. The worktop beautifully conceals the induction modules, which are securely mounted using a hidden under-counter system.
When done cooking, simply give the Essential Induction and the worktop a wipe down with a non-abrasive sponge, warm water and a mild dish soap.
The Dot and the knob
At the heart of the Essential Induction is the innovative "Dot" – a smart central light within the cooking zone.
The Essential Induction's Dot transforms countertops into multifunctional spaces for cooking and socialising. Credit: Gaggenau
The Dot guides users on cookware placement, warns of residual heat, and then disappears when not in use. This innovative feature transforms the countertop into a versatile space. The clean countertop allows for more than just cooking; it becomes a platform for prepping meals, serving dishes, dining with loved ones or socialising with guests.
The user experience is further enhanced by the unique Gaggenau front-mounted control knobs. These high-precision knobs can be positioned depending on personal preference: centred or aligned with the cooking zones.
Their intuitive design offers easy selection of 12 power levels, a keep-warm function and a boost option. Available in stainless steel or black finish, the knobs will flawlessly complement or create a bold contrast with the chosen countertop, and show off your personal style.
Gaggenau managing director Peter Goetz says: "Our longstanding commitment to innovation has often changed the dynamic of cooking. The Essential Induction cooktop is an innovation that will not only change the way people cook but also how they choose to interact and socialise in the modern, open plan kitchen."
Gaggenau at Milan Design Week
Gaggenau showcased the Essential Induction, along with its current appliance range, at Milan Design Week. Credit: Gaggenau
The Essential Induction by Gaggenau at Milan Design Week
Visitors at Gaggenau’s installation at the recent Milan Design Week were treated to an unforgettable experience. Held from April 16 to 21, during Fuorisalone 2024, and located within a stunning glass pavilion at Villa Necchi Campiglio, “The Elevation of Gravity” installation offered a unique and immersive space to explore Gaggenau’s vision.
More than just an exhibit, "The Elevation of Gravity", built in collaboration with Gaggenau’s long-time architect partners 1zu33, provided a platform for visitors to connect with the brand’s design philosophy and identity and product teams.
Additionally, the brand commissioned renowned sound artist Dirk Haubrich, who created bespoke ambient soundscape to further immerse those within the installation.
Alongside these interactions, visitors also had the opportunity to engage with global thought leaders in the architecture and design community.
The 1,100-sqm pavilion housed a showcase of both Gaggenau’s current appliance range for your luxury kitchen, like their ovens and fridges, and exciting upcoming products, including the innovative Essential Induction. Gaggenau continues to enhance traditional avant garde design observing over three centuries of brand heritage.
Learn more about the Essential Induction. Stay updated by visiting the Gaggenau website and following Gaggenau on Instagram.