We’ve long been fans of design elements that marry timeless character with modern function. And we’re not alone: the world seems to love the the beauty, craftsmanship, and, truth be told, quirks of the designs of yore. From obsessions with kitchen appliances that feel like they’re from the 1950s, to SUVs that mirror their 1990s silhouettes, to men who shave with a straight razor.
There’s something about the idiosyncrasies of the past that call to us in an age where earnest design has been exchanged for the utmost in efficiency and mass-appeal. We’ve, in some form or fashion, all had these uniquities algorithm’ed out of us, either in what we consume online, or in what our data has told the manufacturing-powers-that-be we crave. Everything, more or less, feels the same, so when we think back on “lesser” technology, there’s something in us that doesn’t mind the absurdities we were once forced to endure simply by the nature of having fewer options (as vinyl’s long-standing renaissance can attest).
Call us Frank Navasky, but punching out a letter on an old typewriter just feels like it would be so romantic. The same could be said for cruising down the highway in a vintage convertible Mercedes 300SL (that probably gets 9 miles to the gallon). Don’t get us started on a wood burning fireplace — and you know we really could mess with an ink and quill.
These things are not better, but they feed your soul in a way the most fuel-efficient, cost-effective, and productive machines on the planet don’t.
THIS is why we love when companies find a way to bring older designs to life with the power of new technology. We’ve written in the past about pieces in this mold that we love — whether it be a TV disguised as an antique piece of framed art, or a Joan Cleaver-esque coffee maker — and we’re so excited to share our most recent addition to the collection!
We have coveted an Ilve range for a couple of years now. Knowing that it made little sense to upgrade the stove and oven in a rented apartment, we hoped that when we purchased our own place, we could make our antique-inspired dreams come true! (Thanks to the team at Ilve, we have!)
From a practical standpoint, the Ilve Nostalgie 36″ range — the option we chose — boasts 6 sealed burners (3 double burners, 3 single burners), and a flat-top griddle you can place across the middle section of the stovetop. We’ve used the griddle several times already for smash burgers and breakfast, and it’s an awesome feature!
The convection-capable oven has 9 cook modes, including a quick start option, intensive cooking, and pizza oven across 3.5 cubic feet of cooking space. Having more room in our kitchen and an updated range to cook on has legitimately been such a joy to use as we sunset (er, to some extent) our Doordash usage. The soft-close door and storage drawer are just a bonus!
From a design perspective, there’s not a lot quite like the Ilve in terms of the details that make this piece truly feel unique. We opted for the burgundy colorway with brass trim, but we absolutely love the emerald green and glossy black colors as well! In the same way that luxury vehicles like BMW and Mercedes-Benz feel like they use their own proprietary colors, these hues feel deeper and more well-considered than their mass-produced counterparts.
The hardware feels lux, the burners belong in a chef’s kitchen, and the design itself sets the entire tone for the rest of our kitchen! It’s 100% the statement coat, flared trousers, sparkly dress, or standout shoes to this part of our home.
While we love the form and function of the Ilve in our home, value is obviously in the eye of the beholder. At just under $6,000, it’s not a bargain option for those looking to make the odd mac and cheese or bake a Stouffer’s lasagna (jk, we all know you’re baking a mean souffle in there). Ilve was kind enough to give us this range, and after having it for a little over 2 months now, we can confidently say you’re certainly not lacking anything at this price point. Ultimately, like many things in life, it comes down to your individual preferences and priorities. We have thoroughly enjoyed our experience so far, and would absolutely recommend it if you’re in the market and it fits your budget!
If you’re looking for a range for your home, you can find the exact option we picked here!
