This year has already seen a raft of new appliance launches from some of the major brands; from a multi-zone, modular induction hob to a Smart Oven with HotBlast™ technology. Here are some of my favourites…

CAPLE

The C950i from Caple is the first induction hob of its kind in the UK. Designed with style and function in mind, it creates the ultimate cooking platform with four modular induction zones, which are configured in a semi-circle around a control zone. These can be fitted inset or flush to the worksurface for a sleek, seamless look. The black, frameless hob features 11 power levels, which include a keep warm function and power booster. There’s also a memory recall and pause option along with child safety lock and residual heat indicators.

Go for a modular approach to cooking with Caple’s new induction hob, www.caple.co.uk

Also new from Caple is the WC177 in-column wine cabinet, which makes a versatile addition to a cooling wall in the kitchen. Choose from a stainless steel or integrated cabinet door with black interior and toughened, UV-protected glass door. It has eight sliding shelves designed for Bordeaux bottles and two double shelves for larger bottles, all of which are telescopic for easy access. There are three temperature zones for red, white and sparkling, a whisper quiet 42dB noise level and no frost compressor cooling system for total control in each zone. For even more added value, it also comes with an LED display, touch controls, UV-heat-free white LED lighting, a door opener alarm, high temperature alarm and three humidity controlled water tanks.

Entertain in style with Caple’s latest wine cabinet, www.caple.co.uk

GORENJE

Gorenje is set to unveil a brand new built-in collection this month, which will include ovens, hobs, hoods and coffee machines and replace its current flagship range. The key themes are technology and functionality for a more precise and holistic cooking experience in line with the company’s ethos of ‘Life Simplified’. There are three categories – Essential, Advanced and Superior – with each line offering its own benefits. Improvements will include large capacity 75 litre ovens, a new ergonomic design with matching fascia panels, user-friendly interfaces, a Pyrolytic oven for less than £300 and state-of-the-art hobs that provide a fully automatic cooking experience.

Gorenje’s new built-in collection offers something for every type of cook, www.gorenje.co.uk

SAMSUNG

The MW8000J HotBlast™ Smart Oven from Samsung incorporates new technology that takes fast cooking to new levels – cooking up to 50% quicker than traditional convection ovens. The convection microwave works by blasting powerful hot air downwards, directly onto the food from 60 equally distributed air holes. It also comes with a 2250W PowerGrill Dup for speedy grilling, while a Crusty Plate function evenly bakes and browns the top and bottom of frozen foods such as pizza and chicken pieces. It even has innovative Slim Fry™ technology, enabling you to still enjoy fried foods but from a microwave oven, allowing food to stay crispy on the outside using only a touch of oil.

For fast food with flavour, check out Samsung’s new Smart Oven, www.samsung.com

FISHER & PAYKEL

In other appliance news, Fisher & Paykel has just announced its partnership with New Zealand born chef Peter Gordon. Often credited as the godfather of fusion cuisine, Gordon has restaurants in both London and Auckland, dividing his time between the two. “I first learned to cook on an F&P – as we called it then – stove at home in New Zealand more than 45 years ago,” he says. “To me, the company is a heritage brand and it’s one I feel very patriotic about. I’ve installed three kitchens in my last three homes and have used F&P in every one.”

Peter will be creating new recipes and dishes for F&P customers with a series of video recipes that will be available on the Fisher & Paykel website and social media. The renowned chef will also attend the press day at Grand Designs Live London on 5^th May at stand K190.

Peter Gordon is set to cook up a storm with Fisher & Paykel, www.fisherpaykel.co.uk

IKEA

In other technology news, a new range from Ikea integrates wireless charging into household furniture. Available from mid-April in UK stores, it’s called QI integrated charging and is designed to help consumers stay constantly connected. The range, part of a long-term commitment called Home Smart, makes phone and tablet charging more accessible yet discreet with a selection of products that come with integrated charging pads for every room in the house. Along with pre-made products such as lamps, bedside tables and office furniture, there is also a Jyssen wireless charger that can be fitted wherever needed.

Ikea’s wireless range would be ideal for the kitchen, www.ikea.com