With a company origin of over 340 years, tradition and innovation are going to be obvious principles embedded in the brand philosophy. But with most companies, these principles are a tagline, a catchy slogan meant to sweep the market off its feet. That’s where the difference lies in Gaggenau, the ultra luxury brand for professional-grade home appliances; it lets its products speak for themselves. Since its founding in 1683, its success has been rooted in technological innovation and thoughtful design, all geared toward seamless functionality.
When I learned that I was invited to the unveiling of Gaggenau’s Expressive Series at Arcadia Earth Toronto, I was elated. Because time and time again, Gaggenau has never failed to impress culinary experts, consumers and, quite frankly, its “competition” in the industry.
As I walked into the venue’s showroom space, three boxed figurative objects were gowned in a black silk covering. Those in attendance spanned sectors, from interior designers to engineer- and kitchen-appliance industry professionals. As we all gathered, murmurs and whispers flowed throughout the attendees.
But the moment those coverings were thrown off … it was as if we were all transcended into the future of kitchen design.
The unveiling of the Expressive Series marks the first new design from Gaggenau in nearly two decades consisting of the following: The Oven, Combi-Microwave Oven, a Fully Automatic Espresso Machine, a Culinary Warming Drawer, and a Combi-Steam Oven and a Vacuuming Drawer.
It was exceptional to see day-to-day appliances designed and crafted at the highest level with the most thoughtful aesthetic considerations in mind. For example, the floating central ring is an interactive detail elegantly positioned on the seamless glass door. This ring enhances both the look and usability of appliances, showcasing Gaggenau’s skill in metal craftsmanship while harmoniously combining form with function. Taking it even a step further, elite Swiss watchmakers were called upon to assist with engineering the ring’s 360-degree movement to allow a seamless and effortless flow with a touch sensitivity that would calibrate to the user’s fingers.
Each product was then tested at the highest level by Michelin-starred chefs to further challenge its capabilities. The principles of Bauhaus design served as the ethos of the collection, bringing forth an artistic simplicity through a square, and a circle.
The event’s theme was Two Frames, One Circle, A Piece of Art, and, while Gaggenau very much impressed everyone with its bold, creative yet functional design, the experience was further enhanced by the bold flavours from a specially designed menu by Michelin Starred Chef Patrick Kriss from Alo Group at lunch.
The Arcadia Earth Toronto was the perfect venue to host this event, as the venue spotlights creativity and immersive experiences, which allowed the attendees to intimately experience everything the Expressive Series has to offer.
