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Living space increasingly efficiently arranged
Height says less and less about the possibilities; the 45-cm oven proves that. In modern kitchens, this very size is the starting point of thoughtful design. Not because it is smaller, but because it fits smarter. The new compact ovens from Whirlpool W Collection are available in three designs and five configurations, creating surprising variety within one niche size.
Kitchen design visibly shifts to vertical lines. Tall cabinet walls create tranquility, symmetry and ergonomic comfort. At the same time, living space is used more efficiently, especially in apartments and urban projects where every square meter counts. In that field of tension, the 45 cm oven takes on a new role: a strategic tool within the column arrangement.
The strength of 45 cm is in its proportion: two compact appliances on top of each other look visually strong and give designers freedom to play with functions. A compact oven combined with a steam oven or a warming drawer provide a high-quality look in a minimalist design. “For consumers, that image is just as important. The kitchen is a living space in which technology must merge with architecture. Appliances should perform as well as bring peace of mind. The compact oven supports exactly that premise,” Whirlpool informed us during an interview. Don van Etten, sales manager KRT Beko Europe, Netherlands: “The black W7 models are real runners-up, but our personal favorite is still Stardust Grey, in glossy or scratch-resistant matte. On this version, but also on our other new colors, we get more and more enthusiastic reactions.”
What distinguishes the current generation of 45 cm ovens is the integration of functions. Where compact used to equate to fewer features, we now see the opposite. Within Whirlpools W Collection, the range runs from a single compact oven to a full-fledged combi-steam oven. Technological highlight is the 3-in-1 version with traditional oven functions, Crisp and CrispFry, microwave and added steam via the removable water tank. Cook3 allows simultaneous cooking of three dishes without flavor transfer. With that, you can say that one appliance replaces multiple appliances.
Color is also becoming increasingly important let Van Etten know, “Black glass remains a fixture, but color is clearly making a comeback. Just like the growing demand for a matte finish. Where previously that was still a niche, we now see consumers consciously opting for more softness and nuance.”
Of course, the recurring question is whether 45 cm has too many limitations (especially in terms of capacity), but thanks to efficient insulation and clever placement of heating elements, Whirlpool's compact models boast 52 liters of capacity which, according to the organization, is still the largest in the market. This, in fact, also makes it possible to cook on several levels at once or place higher dishes.
W Collection offers three design lines: W5, W7 and W11. Each line has its own positioning and appearance, without changing the basic principle. That makes it easy to guide consumers from an accessible model to a more sophisticated version. “With high-quality products we respond to this, and as you would expect from us, we offer solutions that fit any budget,” Van Etten said.
And so Whirlpool clearly expresses its desire and ability to answer questions and challenges that may arise around more compact living. “Living is organized more compactly, kitchens are designed integrally and consumers expect more functionality in less space. In that force field, the 45 cm oven may no longer be a compromise at all, but a logical answer,” Van Etten concludes.
Sensing what matters At Whirlpool, we believe that self-care is not selfish: it is the first step for physical, mental, emotional and social well-being. This is why it is so important to reconnect with yourselves and your needs, practicing self-care every day. We believe it all starts at home: our 6TH SENSE technology makes our appliances intuitive to use [...].
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