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Why range cooking?offer at least two generous ovens, usually with a high-poweredseparate grill and, in one case, a warming drawer. Surprisingly,the footprint of a standard range can be just 30cm wider than abuilt-in model but you get a lot of extra functionality with thatfootprint and, on some models, you can also use the ovencavities for storage when they are not in use.Compared to a built-in oven, it’s easy to see the benefits arange can bring. You can cook two or more dishes at differenttemperatures at the same time, and keeping them warm issimple, so you can forget timing issues. The range’s cooktopstands up well to modern hobs, offering a choice of gas andinduction on conventional models. These come with fivegas burners as standard, usually including one wok burner,while cast-iron ranges offer simmering and boiling plates.In addition to great functionality, most range cookerscome with a wide range of accessories, such as griddle plates,to help achieve perfect results. Cast-iron ranges involve adifferent approach to cooking and have devotees who won’tcook on anything else but, if you’re new to this type of cooking,there are plenty of classes and demos to help.fuel choicesFrom standard gas and electric to oil, LPG and solid fuel,there are options to suit your fuel supply and the way youcook. For conventional ranges, many of us still want dualfuel, teaming the control of a gas hob with the reliabilityof an electric oven, although induction hobs areincreasingly popular. Energy prices are a considerationtoo. An AGA that uses oil can cost almost twice as muchto run as the same model on gas, but there are moreeconomical options. ‘You can run a new generation AGAfrom as little as £5 per week,’ says Kathryn Lowe,marketing manager at AGA. If a cast-iron model is amust-have, consider the AGA Total Control and theiTotal Control, which can be switched off when not in use.the perfect fitOne of the misconceptions about range cookers is the issueof size. Yes, they are bigger than a built-in oven, but they alsoboast larger ovens and greater cooking flexibility. Both castironand conventional models are available from just 900mmwide for a 2-oven range. Where space isn’t an issue, widths canreach a mighty 1,500mm for a 5-oven AGA, plus there areadd-on 600mm modules available, too, so you can really tailora configuration to suit. When choosing, think about how manypeople you regularly cook for and the number of people who arelikely to use it at the same time, as well as the space available.centre stageA range cooker will sit at the heart of your kitchen, providinga striking focal point. There are plenty of specialist showroomswhere you can see a good choice of models, finishes, and colours,all with expert advice on hand – a good kitchen designer willalso be able to create a suitable layout and advise on style.Most brands offer matching cooker hoods, while some, suchas Rangemaster, offer refrigeration, taps and sinks for aperfectly coordinated look. Range cookers are built to last,so think long term when making buying decisions. Cast-ironcookers offer so much more than you might expect. Thesedesigns also provide heating, and not just in the immediatevicinity. Some models can supply your hot water and also poweryour entire central-heating system, feeding up to 20 radiatorsand doing away with the need for a boiler. If this scenario worksfor you, it can be an economical option in the long run.‘quite simply, a range cooker adds character and soul to yourhome – SomeThing you just can’t achieve with a built-in oven’Holly Johnson, marketing manager, RangemasterNeed to know…Consider the following before you select a range cooker for your kitchen...■ Choose from cast-iron modelssuch as AGA and Rayburn or considerthe conventional cooking offered byRangemaster, Falcon and Mercury.■ Do try before you buy, or at leastview the appliances you’re interestedin first hand. Visit one of the specialistshowrooms to see a wide range ofmodels and to benefit from expertadvice on what will suit your needs.■ Discuss the idea of a range from theoutset with your kitchen designer. A gooddesigner will be well-versed in creating adynamic layout with a range at its heart,even if your room’s on the small side.■ Not all range cookers are huge –a standard range is only 30cm widerthan a slot-in cooker or built-in model,and provides at least two generousoven cavities and separate grill, offeringexcellent cooking flexibility.■ Hob-top cooking can providefive gas burners, often with a highpoweredwok ring; you can chooseinduction, too, and ranges comewith extras such as griddles.■ A good range cooker can add valueto your home or, if you can’t bear tosay goodbye, you can take it with you.AGA offers a great relocation service.The complete guide to range cooking 06

BK promotionAt home with the rangeWhether it’s the gentle ambient heat, the superior taste of the foodor the classic look, cast-iron range cookers bring heart to the homeTotal Control AGA cookers boast bothclassic beauty and cooking style, butcome with host of technologicaladvances. The 5-oven AGA TotalControl in Black, £12,395, offers extracontrollability and flexibilityCast-iron range cookers come in all shapes andsizes, but with one thing in common – the foodthey produce tastes amazing. And that’s notall: there are models that can heat up to 20radiators and offer all the hot water a family could need, aswell as cookers that can be left on when you want them andswitched off when you don’t. With a host of sizes, colours andfuel types available, there really is a cast-iron range cooker foreveryone. And while these cookers have classic design values,their functionality is perfect for life in the 21st century.The complete guide to range cooking 07

BK promotionClassic beautyAdmired for its iconic looks and durable build, the traditionalcast-iron range oven is so much more than a cooker: it’s aninvestment piece to build your new kitchen aroundAny owner of a cast-iron rangewill tell you that it’s morethan just a cooker – it’spractically a member of thefamily. Few household objects, let aloneappliances, garner that level of emotion andloyalty, but those who use them fall in lovequickly and swear they will never go back –food tastes better, kitchens are blessed with agenuine warmth and ambience, and, comewinter, the range is a magnet, with everyonejostling for space in its warm glow.The 3-oven AGA Dual Control, shown here in White and priced at £9,495, can be sited anywhere in the kitchenFor stockist details go to page xxxThe complete guide to range cooking 09Beautiful kitchens

Cast-iron rangesBK promotioninvestment pieceApart from the fact they make a real style statement, thereare many other reasons to choose a cast-iron range. They arebuilt to last so, although adding one to your kitchen involvesan initial investment, your range is likely to last forever. Theyare also great in kitchens of all sizes, providing extra heat andcreating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.Cast-iron ranges such as AGA and Rayburn have at leasttwo ovens – a simmering and a roasting oven. Larger modelscan have up to five, including baking, warming and slowcookingovens, ensuring you have the perfect conditionsfor preparing practically any dish. Cast-iron models – forexample the traditional AGA – will also bring ambient heatto your kitchen, while the latest hi-tech Total Control modelcan be turned on and off as required.style to suit youCast-iron ranges come in a good choice of sizes and are suitablefor any home. From 987mm-wide 2- and 3-oven models,which are ideal for more compact kitchens, to impressivelygenerous 1,500mm 5-oven ranges, there’s something foreveryone. In terms of style, range cookers are equally at homeTHE DETAILS: AGAb o i l i n g plat e Great for stir-fries,boiling and searing meats i m m e r i n g plat e Large enough for threepans, and you can also cook toasted sandwiches,pancakes and seafood directly on the surfacer oa s t i n g o v e n Use for roasting, bakinggrilling and even fryings i m m e r i n g o v e n Cooks stews andcasseroles slowly for succulent resultsb a k i n g o v e n Found in the 3- and 4-ovenmodels, this is for dishes that require a lessfierceheat than the roasting oven. As itsname suggests, it’s perfect for cakes andbread. 4 and 5-oven models also have awarming oven and a slow-cooking ovenAGA and Rayburn AT A GLANCECompare specifications and select the ideal heat-storage range for your homeAGA■ size From 987mm to 1,500mm for cast-ironranges, additional modules from 600mm wide■ c o l o u r s Up to 13 colours■ n u m b e r of o v e n s 2 to 5 ovens■ f u e l Electric, gas and oil■ wa r m t h Yes, will give a warm glow to evenlarge rooms■ c e n t r a l heat i n g & hot wat e r No■ c o n t r o l l a b i l i t y A traditional AGAis designed to remain on at all times and thecast-iron body maintains a constant temperaturein the ovens and hotplates. The AGA DualControl and Total Control models have addedcontrollability to enable low-energy modes tobe used as well as turned on and off as requireda g a, 0845 712 5207, a g a l i v i n g.c o mRayburn■ s i z e From 840mm for the 200 Seriesto 995mm for the 600 Series■ c o l o u r s 8■ n u m b e r of o v e n s 2■ f u e l Solid fuel, gas, oil, LPG, wood, electric■ wa r m t h Yes, will give a warm glow toeven large rooms■ c e n t r a l heat i n g & hot wat e r Yes,but check that your chosen model will heat themaximum number of radiators in your home■ c o n t r o l l a b i l i t y All modern Rayburns arefitted with thermostats and both ovens and thehotplate are fully controllable and programmable.Turn on and off as required to suit your lifestyler ay b u r n, 0845 762 6147,r ay b u r n-web.c o.ukThe AGA heritageOur love affair with AGA began more than 90years ago. The AGA range was the brainchildof physicist and Nobel Prize winner Dr GustafDalén. Blinded in a work accident, it was duringhis convalescence that Dalén came to realise justhow much of his household’s time was taken upwatching over food as it cooked on an unreliablerange. Determined to develop something moreefficient and easy to use, his first AGA heatstoragerange appeared in 1922. Later, whentalking about his invention, he revealed: ‘Itseemed to me that a stove could be made thatwas more in tune with the high demands andthe development in technique of our time.’Each AGA is made from 70 per centrecycled material, including car parts andeven lamp-posts. Every one is hand-castand built in Britain at the company’s foundryin Shropshire. Made in time-honoured fashionby experts, every AGA begins as molten ironpoured into moulds. The protective vitreousenamel coats are applied over a period ofthree days, giving the exterior a durable finishthat will last for decades.In 2009, an AGA dating from1932 was found that was stillbeing used to cook with byits 80-year-old ownerin traditional and modern schemes – simply pick one in a shadeto complement or contrast with your cabinetry, although withso much choice it can be a tough decision. ‘Everyone has theirfavourite range cooker colour. There are a whole host of shadesavailable, from sleek contemporary colours such as Pewter andPearl Ashes, through to softer, more retro-inspired hues –think Duck Egg Blue and Aqua,’ says Laura James of AGA.Classic cooking for a modern ageDeveloped to have classic styling but with modern living inmind, the latest cast-iron cookers not only look good but arefully controllable, too. AGA Dual Control cookers have alow-energy setting for the ovens, which can save up to 50 percent more energy than a standard range cooker. A typicalroasting oven sits at around 240°C but, by reducing thisto less than 200°C, the AGA Dual Control saves energy,while the simmering and boiling hotplates can be heatedindividually and even fully turned off as and when required.Simple and intuitive to use, there’s one control for thehotplates and one for the ovens. On 5-oven models, an extracontrol operates the additional two ovens and the warmingplate. AGA Dual Control ovens that are switched offThis 2-oven AGA, from £8,145, hasbeen combined with an integratedAGA module, both in White, tooffer added flexibilityThe complete guide to range cooking 10The complete guide to range cooking 11

Cast-iron rangescompletely will generally take up to four hours to reachthe low-energy setting and eight hours to fully warm up.Consequently, it takes from two to four hours to go fromthe low-energy setting up to the maximum temperature.THE DETAILS: RayburnNew generation of aga cookersAGA Total Control range cookers have the same iconicgood looks as classic designs but are packed with thevery latest technology. Powered by electricity, they can beturned on and off at the touch of a button – or, in the caseof AGA iTotal Control, remotely by smartphone app ortext message – and they heat up rapidly when required.The ovens and hotplates can be individually controlled so,for example, you can choose to have just the boiling plateor roasting oven on, giving plenty of flexibility and savingenergy at the same time, or, if preferred, a remote-controlhandset will allow an AGA to be programmed to suit you andyour lifestyle. This is great for those who are concerned aboutthe range being left on when they are out. The runningcosts of the AGA Total Control can start at as little as £5per week. Another practical benefit of these models is thein-room venting technique, which means the range canbe positioned anywhere in the room, giving you freedomand convenience in in your kitchen design.h ot p l at e The solid one-piece cast-ironplate has graduated heat, so it’s easy to movepans from simmering to boil and anywhere inbetween. Larger models have space for up toeight saucepansm a i n o v e n Made from cast iron it usesindirect heat. A thermodial in the door showsthe temperature at the centre of the oven, soit can simmer, bake and roast, with temperatureranges from 90 degrees to 250 degreesl o w e r o v e n Depending on the model,this is suitable for use as both a cooking or awarming oven. The cast-iron cooking oven heatsto around half the main oven temperature, whilethe sheet-metal warming-oven option availableon some Rayburns operates at one-third of thetemperature of the main ovenCapable of heating up to 20 radiators, theRayburn 600 also has a capacious hotplatefor up to eight saucepans. Shown here inWhite, prices start at £5,195There’s a colour to suit everytaste, including this bold shade.5-oven AGA Total Control inAubergine, £12,395A survey by Rayburn is essential before you buy. it will advise onwhere to site your range and which fuel and flue are best for youWith striking goodlooks, this 3-oven AGAhas an integratedmodule in Black. Pricesstart at £10,845Choosing a colour a littledarker than the cabinetrysubtly highlights therange. 3-oven AGATotal Control in PearlAshes, £10,395The Rayburn heritageAlso built in Shropshire, each and everyRayburn is built by hand. Using methodsdeveloped over its 68-year heritage, Rayburniron masters continue the traditions of expertcraftsmanship and each oven is built from solidcast iron with exceptional attention to detail.From the molten casting through the layers ofvitreous enameling to the hand assembly, eachone is created with enormous pride. As with itssister brand the AGA, 70 per cent of a Rayburnis made from recycled material and its greencredentials don’t stop there. Complete withhi-tech boiler designs and technologies, theEco-mode settings deliver high levels of efficiency,including some oil and gas condensing centralheatingboiler models that are rated A for energy.Hot water, tooAs well as cooking, most Rayburns also provide a homewith hot water and central heating, and the latest boilerdesign and burner technology ensures these ranges meetthe high levels of A-rated efficiency expected from modernheating systems. They are fully programmable and fittedwith thermostats for easy heat adjustment, while digitalsensors control both the oven and boiler to ensure constanttemperatures. Rayburns can be easily turned on or off,giving greater flexibility and lower energy bills.‘It really is the world’s best-looking boiler,’ says NigelMorrison, marketing manager for Rayburn. ‘You don’t needto have an ugly white box in the kitchen or a separate boilerin the utility room to enjoy the heat from up to 20 radiators.It’s also the only range cooker that offers A-rated condensingcentral heating.’ Do check what the model you’re interestedin offers before you buy; the smallest will provide enoughheat for two or three radiators, while larger Rayburns, suchas the 600 Series, will heat far more.If you’re interested in learning more about these classicranges, there’s a video on the AGA website that explains theAGA cooker’s unique features, as well as an introductoryvideo by Dick Strawbridge on the Rayburn website.The complete guide to range cooking 12 The complete guide to range cooking 13

Case studyMission controlReliable results and ultimateefficiency made AGA TotalControl the perfect choicefor food writer Lucy YoungProject profileTHE OWNERS Lucy Young,cookery writer and assistant tobaking guru Mary Berry, lives withher husband Peter Borcherds, whoworks in ITTHEIR HOME An 18th-centurythree-bedroom cottage in BerkshireTHE PROJECT A full houserenovation including the kitchenCOOKER 3-oven AGA TotalControl, from £10,395CABINETRY Try SieMatic fora similar style (siematic.co.uk)flexibility was key for cookerywriter and assistant to Mary Berry,Lucy Young. She’d previously ownedAGA range cookers and, when shemoved to her new home in Berkshire,she knew exactly which model shewanted. ‘I’ve always loved the DuckEgg Blue AGA,’ reveals Lucy. ‘It wasthe first one I ever cooked on whenI was 19 and, when the colour wasrelaunched, I knew it was what I wanted.’Although Lucy selected a traditionalAGA colour, the rest of her kitchen isdistinctly modern with cool whitecabinetry. A roof lantern floods thespace with light, while shades of greyhelp to create a room that feels bothopen and bright yet homely and warm.‘Our house is very well insulatedbut, because we have a Total Controlmodel, we can have the AGA on all yearround,’ says Lucy. ‘I chose it becauseof the flexibility it offers.‘I could never have a kitchenwithout an AGA. They’re so beautifuland intuitive – they make you a bettercook,’ she reveals. ‘I love baking.There’s nothing nicer than givingsomeone a cake – it feels nurturing.’‘We have our AGA Total Control onslumber overnight, switch it offwhen we go away and only put thehotplates on when we need them’The complete guide to range cooking 14

BK promotionModern sensibilityThe new breed of range cookers have classic good looksand come armed with desirable modern functionsIn Ice White with a brushedchrome trim, this Falcon1000 Duluxe would lookequally at home in afarmhouse kitchen orchic city apartment.Prices start at £3,406The latest conventional range cookersoffer great flexibility. Even the compactmodels create a statement and alldesigns boast hi-tech features that willspeak to the chef within. Programmable multifunctionovens, powerful grills, induction hobs and wok burnerscreate a cooking theatre suitable for family cooks,professional chefs and stylish entertainers alike.The complete guide to range cooking 15Beautiful kitchens

Contemporary cookingBK promotionThe right range for youIt’s easy to get lost with so much choice, so the first thingto consider when selecting a range is size. If you’re a creating anew kitchen scheme, discuss your needs with your designer asthey can advise how the available options will impact on yourkitchen design. Think about what kind of cook you are. Largefamilies and those who entertain regularly will benefit fromthe two large ovens most ranges offer, plus a separate grill.Traditionalists will probably prefer a gas hob, while thosewanting to cook like the professionals might opt for induction.‘Cooking for lots of people is simple with a range cooker,’ saysHolly Johnson, marketing manager for Rangemaster, Falconand Mercury. ‘With a minimum of five burners and two ovens,there is plenty of room to cook for the masses. The 1,000mmRangemaster models can fit eight pizzas in just one oven.’Sense of styleThrow away the rule book when choosing the style of yourrange. A move towards eclectic looks in kitchen designmakes it easy to mix traditional and modern, so a fabulous,flat-fronted black Mercury will look equally at home setbetween bright white handless cabinetry or warm oakShaker-style units. ‘Range cookers have moved on fromprimarily being associated with traditional kitchens and arenow popular in a modern setting,’ says Graeme Smith, seniordesigner at Second Nature Kitchens. ‘They can provide ahomely contrast in a contemporary kitchen and help to injectpersonality into the scheme. This stems from several factors– one being the growing popularity of home-cooking, whichhas been led by the media appeal of celebrity chefs. Suppliershave responded with a wider choice of range cookers. Nolonger just available in stainless steel or black finishes, there’snow a selection of more exciting colours. This allows freedomto coordinate, complement or contrast with the kitchen colourscheme, meaning you can make the range stand out as a keyfeature or be streamlined within the design.’Selecting the right look is all about confidence and thatgoes for colour, too. Over the past few years, the classicblack and cream shades have been joined by a softer palette.Rangemaster ranges are now available in 21 colours,Both Falcon and Mercury have a choice of nine shades.Finally, coordinating appliances in the shape of matchingextractor hoods and even, in the case of Rangemaster,fridges, dishwashers, sinks and taps, will help to pullthe scheme together into a cohesive whole.Choose a range to suit your styleEach brand has its unique features so it’s worth getting a goodunderstanding of what’s available before making your final decisionNeed toknowHow to choosea modern range■ Analyse how you liketo cook, what you like tocook and the number ofpeople you cook for■ Don’t be scared tobreak with convention– there’s a huge rangeof styles and coloursand the only limit isyour imagination■ Get help from yourdesigner on the rangecooker options outthere and how variousdesigns will sit withinyour layout■ There’s no needto stick to one style.Traditional and modernmix well and can helpto create a timelessfeel in a schemeRangemaster The complete choiceIt says something that eightof the top-10 best-buy rangecookers, as chosen by Which?,are Rangemaster models,with the Professional Plus 90dual-fuel model topping thelist. Comprising 15 models inup to 21 colours and a varietyof hob-top choices, there areover 700 possible variationsin the Rangemaster stable,guaranteeing a perfect fitwith any style and budget.The compact 900mmoptions still include twoovens, the smaller of which islarge enough to accommodatefour chickens at once. The1,000mm models combinestyle and function for thosewho want a little more space,while the grand 1,100mmranges offer flexibility with ahob than has ample room forup to six pans. Fuel choicesare varied, too, with bothelectric- and gas-only ovensavailable to combine withceramic, induction and a gashob. If gas is your preferredfuel but you don’t have asupply direct to your home,then the Rangemasterdual-fuel models areconvertible to LPG (liquidpetroleum gas). And thecollection includes more thanjust cookers. Matching hoodsand splashbacks make a stylestatement as do fridge freezersand wine storage, not tomention its own sinks andtaps. Rangemaster, 0870 7896110, rangemaster.co.ukThe Rangemaster heritageFirst made in Leamington Spa in 1830,Rangemaster is Britain’s oldest range cookerbrand and is still made in the UK. It’s alsothe most popular, sitting at the heart of moreBritish homes than any other brand. Almost184 years ago, the Kitchener was the firstin what became a long line of designs builton the same site. And, it’s still being createdtoday – although reconfigured and redesignedfor modern-day living. All Rangemastercookers are made from heavyweight highqualitysteel. It doesn’t make them light,but it does create a hardy, stable framethat’s built to last. From the elegance ofthe Elan to the chic illuminated fascia of theHI-LITE, there’s a great choice of designs.Modern looks andtechnology, this BlackMercury 1000 has aninduction hob top.Easy to clean, it has achild lock, over-heatingdetection and optimalsimmer settings. Pricesstart at £4,300The complete guide to range cooking 16 The complete guide to range cooking 17

Contemporary cookingBK promotionFalcon The professional cookerIf you want to cook like aMichelin-starred chef then theequipment you choose is key toachieving restaurant-qualityresults. Falcon is synonymouswith professional cooking,having been at the centre ofcommercial kitchens for manyyears. Most models come withtwo large high-performanceovens, one multifunction andone fanned with stay-cleanremovable liners – a real boonfor those who hate cleaning. Thegrill features a fully extending,gliding tray that makeschecking and removing dishesa breeze. As well as gas andinduction hob options,including a 5kW burner, there’salso the Falcon cooktop, aprofessional-look central platewith a heat source that gentlydecreases as you move out fromthe centre, allowing for the useof several saucepans at the sametime. The 900mm is the smallestof the Falcon ranges but there’sno compromise on performance.As well as a large multifunctionoven, it features a tall fan ovenwith a 66-litre capacity. Builtto last – even the controls areink-moulded and injected ontoa chrome plate, rather thanpainted onto the body – thestainless-steel one-piecehotplate with a choice of matt orgloss pan supports sets it apartfrom less sturdy competitors.Serious about your cooking?The 1092 collection offerstop-spec features that wouldn’tbe out of place in a restaurantkitchen. Falcon, 0870 789 5107,falconappliances.comThe Falcon heritageWith a long history in commercialcatering equipment spanning morethan 75 years, Falcon brings the buildquality and high performance of aprofessional kitchen to the home,making it the perfect choice forpassionate cooks. It’s a favouriteof many chefs, including Nick Nairn,who not only has a number in hiscookery schools in Scotland but alsohas one in his home. A solid stainlesssteelbody, one-piece hotplate andsturdy styling all combine with hi-techoven functions to produce a satisfyinglyrobust yet elegant range that’s perfectfor those wanting to create beautifuldishes every day of the week.Everything you’dexpect from atraditional rangecooker, this Elan 110 byRangemaster costsfrom £1,899The beauty of conventionalranges is that you can placethem almost anywhere inthe kitchen. Falcon 1092prices start from £4,202mercury The modern takeThe combination of beautifulstyling and first-class cookingperformance has made theMercury a firm favourite forhomeowners in the decade sinceits launch. From its chunkyhi-fi-inspired controls to theinstantly recognisable steel sidetrims, it has rapidly become anobject of desire and an essentialin many contemporaryschemes, providing the perfectbalance of style and substance.Available in three sizes –1,000mm, 1,082mm and1,200mm – all have a choiceof dual fuel and induction hobs.For those with big families orwho are regular entertainers,the 2-oven combinations rangefrom 66 and 68 litre capacity inthe 1,000mm to 81 and 78 litresin the 1,082. This, combinedwith a variety of cooktops,ensures a Mercury range is theperfect partner for creatingdelicious meals. Heavyweightgas hobs with chunky cast-ironburners add to the designerlook, while induction hobs areavailable as an option on allmodels for those who want anup-to-the-minute, controllablecooking surface. With a choice ofeight colours, including stainlesssteel, the bold Blueberry andLiquorice are perfect for urbanschemes while, softer colourssuch as Purple Haze andTruffle will sit beautifullyin more relaxed designs. Fortraditionalists there are Black,White and Oyster models, too.The wall-hung, flat-frontedhoods in matching colours aresuper-efficient and sleek,but more discreet built-incanopy hoods are also available.Mercury, 0870 756 1236,mercuryappliances.co.ukThe Mercury heritageOne of the most recent additions tothe AGA family, Mercury ovens are thenew kid on the block, yet already theirsteel side panels and no-fuss frontagehave made them highly desirable.Launched 14 years ago in a highlycompetitive market, its developerswere keen to create a brand thatstood for cutting-edge design andattention to detail. The first Mercurywas launched in January 2000 andcombined innovative design withoutstanding performance. Now, aspart of the AGA Rangemaster Group,each Mercury is hand-crafted bycraftsmen in the Leamington Spafactory, combining years of traditionwith bold, modern styling to createan icon of the future.In this Shakerkitchen by DeVol(devolkitchens.co.uk), a tiledsplashback hasbeen used tocoordinate with theRangemaster Elisein China Blue.Prices start at£2,009Pair an icy whiteMercury withmatt cabinetry fora designer finish.Second NatureRemo cabinetryin Matt White(sncollection.co.uk). Mercury1200 in Oyster,prices from £4,300The complete guide to range cooking 18 The complete guide to range cooking 19

Contemporary cookingconventional AgaIn addition to the traditional cast-ironheat-storage models that AGA is knownand loved for, the AGA is also availableas a conventional range cooker. Offeringthe same good looks but without theheat-storage element, the AGAMasterchef and S-Series offer acontemporary solution. The S-Series(Two-Four and Six-Four) ovens havethe same traditional look as a cast-ironAGA, including the much-loved, iconicenamelled finish, but with electricovens, gas or ceramic hotplates anda ceramic electric grill.The impressive Masterchef XL is ahigh-performance conventional rangecooker with contemporary styling. It hastwo 69-litre ovens – one multifunctionand one fan – plus a separate grill anda choice of either a six-burner gas hobwith griddle and wok burner or a fivezoneinduction hob, depending on whichfuel source suits you. It’s a great choicefor those who aspire to owning an AGAbut who prefer to have the instantcontrol of a conventional range.Desirable featuresConventional range cookers are packed with hard-working featuresdesigned to deliver the best results for all methods of cookingTeppanyakigriddleA non-stick,easy-clean coatingensures theteppanyaki is greatto cook on and easyto clean. It fits snuglyover gas burners andis ideal for Japanesestylefood. It’s also ahealthy way to cookan old-fashionedEnglish breakfastGlide-out grillThe smooth-actiontelescopic runners onthe Glide-out grillmeans it is reallysimple to check upon your food asit’s cooking. It’smuch safer than atraditional grill pan onshelf supports, tooMultifunctionovenAll Rangemastermultifunction ovenshave at least sevencooking functions– some have eight –for a flexible cookingexperience. As well as afan oven, conventionaloven and base heat,there’s also a defrostfunction, fanned grillingand a browning elementFan ovenIf you batch cook,then a fan oven is agreat solution. Thisfunction draws airfrom the interiorof the oven, heats itup and forces it backinto the cavity again,maintaining an evenheat throughout andensuring all your fairycakes look the sameHandyrackA unique feature toRangemaster, theHandyrack attachesto the main ovendoor. When you openthe door, the rackpulls out with it,meaning your handsare free to baste yourroast without the riskof scorching themon the roasting panWarmingzoneA real benefitwhen entertaining,Rangemaster’swarming zone willkeep dishes attemperature whilethe rest of the mealis prepared. Perfectfor sauces, startersand soups, ithas a maximumtemperature of 70°CThe complete guide to range cooking 20

BK PromotionSmall wondersDon’t be put off by size – a range can work beautifully in a compact spaceThe AGA Four-Two is a conventional ovenwith traditional styling in a small package.Shown in Pistachio it costs from £2,750Contemporary styling conceals atraditional cast-iron heart in this cookeronlyRayburn XT. Prices start at £5,995At 900mm the Rangemaster Elan is just30cm wider than a standard oven but hasall the features you need. Prices from £1,780It’s easy to picture a range cooker in a spacious roombut what are the options for the smaller kitchen? AGAis poised to unveil an exciting new launch any daysoon – hotly tipped to be a compact 600mm modelthat offers all the benefits of the classic AGA cooker in a neatlittle package – a baby AGA, if you like, that’s perfectly suited tothe smaller home in town or country. Of the current ranges, theAGA S-Series Four-Two conventional range has two ovens,the iconic enamel surface and all the heart-warming goodlooks of a classic AGA. And don’t forget that 900mm modelsare just 30cm wider than standard ovens, offering excellentfunctionality while giving your scheme a striking focal point.Suitable rangesYou will find 900mm range cookers fromRangemaster, Falcon and Rayburn thatwork beautifully in a small kitchen.‘Youonly have to give up a little bit of spaceto gain a whole lot more cooking, makingthis a huge draw for keen cooks,’ saysHolly Johnson, marketing manager forRangemaster, Falcon and Mercury. ‘Thebuilt-in storage offered on some modelscan provide a home for pans and largecasserole dishes when not in use, plusyou’ll save on the cost of cabinetry.’ Yourkitchen designer will be able to providesketches or CAD drawings to show arange cooker in situ, but you can alsouse a favourite design trick yourselfby cutting a life-size template fromnewspaper to move around the room.It gives a really good feel for space andallows you to try out different positions.Could this be what the new babyAGA will look like?The complete guide to range cooking 21

Compact kitchensConventional wisdomWhile you might not want to invest in aheat-storage model that’s likely to be onall the time in a very small space, the AGATotal Control really comes into its ownhere – turn it off when you don’t need it,safe in the knowledge that it comes upto temperature rapidly when you do.Although slightly wider, at 987mm, it’sa good investment in terms of ovencapacity. Rayburn models start at840mm wide for the 200 Series and theRayburn XT is just over 900mm.Balanced approachAlthough options are often restricted insmall spaces, it pays to design the layoutaround the range as a focal point and toensure that there is a decent amount ofworkspace either side for comfortablecooking. Think about the colour of yourappliance and the impact this will haveon the room as a whole. You might wantto choose one in a shade that blendswith the hues of your cabinetry, such aswhite with white, charcoal or stainlesssteel with grey, and so on, but don’t ruleout contrast. For instance, in a smalldouble galley with sleek white units,a sudden pop of colour can make theroom feel fresh and vibrant. Choosea splashback or even floor to match –in a compact space, you can afford tobe daring in suitably small doses.Need to knowThinking small...■ For galley or narrow kitchens,pick a model with a flat front andstreamlined handles so there’sless to catch on■ To maximise space, opt fora model with at least two ovens■ Invest in good ventilation:matching hoods are available forboth professional-style modelsand cast-iron cookers■ A stainless-steel range withinduction hob gives clean lines,plus you can use the hob asworktop space when not in usePerfectly formedIt may be compact, but the Morleys’ kitchenhas been enhanced by the addition of a rangeProject profileTHE OWNERS Danielle Morley, a nurse practitioner,and her husband, JohnTHEIR HOME A 1960s three-bedroom semiin County DurhamTHE PROJECT The whole house was completelyrenovated, from rewiring to decoratingCOOKER Rangemaster Elan 90, from £1,780CABINETRY Try the Kuta range at Magnet (magnet.co.uk)when danielle and john morley started planning theirnew kitchen, they had some must-have features in mind.Along with classic Shaker cabinetry, they wanted their firstkitchen together to have a Rangemaster at its heart. ‘Wewanted a contemporary yet timeless scheme,’ says Danielle,‘and the cooker we eventually chose is the perfect match.Although the room is compact, we love the look of ourgorgeous Rangemaster Elan – it’s so classic yetcontemporary. Plus, it’s really easy to use.’The black cooker with steel trim is the perfectaccompaniment to the Morleys’ smart kitchen scheme,where white cabinetry from Magnet is topped with a warmwooden worksurface and multi-hued stone flooring. ARangemaster extractor takes away steam and cooking smellsquickly and efficiently, while Rangemaster also supplied thecoordinating splashback. ‘It’s the focal point of the kitchen,’says Danielle. ‘We’d never be without a range now.’The complete guide to range cooking 22

BK promotionGet to know your rangeTry before you buy at the following cookery classes and demonstrationsFor any new appliance, it reallyhelps to have someone to showhow to master its functions –this is especially true of a heatstoragecooker, which embraces a wholeother way of cooking. The following placesoffer open days, demonstrations and cookeryclasses, so prepare to hone your skills, gainnew ones and fall in love with a range.aga shops0845 712 5207, agaliving.comWith 70 stores nationwide, the AGAshops are a great introduction to thebrand. Demonstrations range from ‘Howto get the best from your AGA’ tastersessions to themed cookery events, suchas making canapés. Run by experiencedprofessionals who have an in-depthknowledge of every model in the AGAfamily, you’ll come away with somebrilliant tips and have a chance to talk toother owners. If you’re new to cast-ironrange cooking or are thinking aboutinvesting, try the free ‘Beginners Guideto your AGA’ sessions – one-to-ones areavailable, too. The AGA Living websitelists affiliated cookery schools where youcan take your skills to a whole new level.DIVERTIMENTI0870 129 5026, divertimenti.co.ukThe Marylebone High StreetDivertimenti cookery school in Londonhas two live Falcon range cookers – youcan compare the 1092 Deluxe and the1000. AGA demonstrations are alsoavailable at both its London stores.Classes include ‘Fish and shellfish’ and‘Knife skills’, with prices from £40.LESLey’S COOKERY SCHOOL0844 800 4633, lesleywaters.comFormer Head Chef at Leith’s School ofFood and Wine, Lesley Waters has herown cookery school in Dorset. Lesley’sCookery School at Abbot’s Hill Farmis all about creating fresh, simple, greatfood. It offers a wide range of one- andtwo-day courses suited to all abilities,with plenty of opportunity to get togrips with the Rangemaster ProfessionalDeluxe ovens used at the school.Courses and demonstrations include‘Bread and baking’ and the ‘SeasonalDorset kitchen’. Prices start at £79.MERCURY0870 756 1236,mercuryappliances.co.ukThere are a number of Mercury displaycentres nationwide where you can takea closer look at the models. Find yournearest stockist online. Or get handson at cookery school The BertinetKitchen in Bath (thebertinetkitchen.com), which has a live RC1090 range.NICK NAIRN COOK SCHOOL01877 389900,nicknairncookschool.comChef Nick Nairn uses Falcon rangecookers at his two cookery schoolsin Scotland’s Port of Menteith andAberdeen – and at home. Cateringto cooks of all levels, the ‘Quick cook’two-hour sessions cost from £49, withday courses from £149. Private bookingscan also be made for special occasions.RAYBURN0845 762 6147, rayburn-web.co.ukA Rayburn range offers both heatingand cooking, so it’s worth attending ademonstration to get a feel for what willwork best for you. Specialist retailers,including AGA shops, run eventsthroughout the year, from basic demosto themed sessions, most of which arefree – but booking ahead is essential.There are also drop-in open days –you’ll find details of both on the website.0845 712 5207agaliving.com0870 789 5107falconappliances.com0870 756 1236mercuryappliances.co.uk0870 789 6110rangemaster.co.uk0845 762 6147rayburn-web.co.ukThe complete guide to range cooking 23