Clean lines, exotic materials, superior craftsmanship, outstanding performance, these are all descriptive terms one could use in describing their Porsche car. Consider then, that in this instance, I’m not talking about a car but rather a kitchen. That’s right a kitchen.
Porsche Design Studio joined forces with Poggenpohl, in late 2005, to develop the Porsche Design Kitchen P’7340. Porsche supplied the design and Poggenpohl built the kitchen. Now, almost three years later Poggenpohl is taking orders with the first US deliveries scheduled for this coming summer.
The similarities between the car maker and the kitchen are many and intentional. Reflect on the fact that it is built on an all aluminum constructed frame, a staple found in many Porsches. The lines are clean, modern and timeless and everything is covered with an anodized coating that looks strikingly similar to polished and gleaming coachwork.
Just like ordering a new Porsche car, the options are almost limitless. Customization is available for both the kitchen’s work surfaces (black, granite or glass) and cabinets (lacquered glass, brushed pine, or dark wood). You have your choice of appliances, so long as you choose Miele & Cie of Gutersloh, Germany. Appliances are well hidden using integrated matching facades. An induction cook top is standard and all appliances feature flush mount sensors so there is no obtrusive knobs or handles to break the otherwise very clean lines.
If all the granite, glass, exotic woods and hidden appliances aren’t enough gadgetry for you, then one of the best features of the P’7340 is the handle free operation of any door, drawer or other pull out unit. Simply touch your finger to the front and the unit slides open slightly and automatically allowing you to gently pull the unit open. Repeat the process and the cabinet in question closes completely, as if by magic.
Most of us have our favorite music for driving. Why should it be any different in the kitchen? For those so inclined, as an added feature, you can option in an audiovisual system seamlessly integrated into a sideboard. Included in the system is a 27” HD LCD TV and a small, but efficient, (would you expect anything but) sound system that can accommodate both digital and analogue connections.
A review I read said the following:
“It might be a stretch to say that the P’7430’s functionality recalls that of a high-performance auto, but you can work in and move around the kitchen as easily as you can maneuver a well-engineered vehicle”
Before you go and get too excited, like most of the top-end Porsche cars, the barrier to entry is quite steep. If you would like to park one of these Porsche Designed kitchens in your own home, expect to pay between $85,000 and $150,000 for the privilege (actually, as far as complete kitchens go, that’s not outrageous for a high-end set-up). If you’re interested in test driving one of these sleek, culinary concepts you can do so at any Poggenpohl showroom globally.
[Sources: Robb Report, Porsche Design Group]