Whether you’re building your house from the ground up, or have decided to do a little kitchen renovation, one of the most significant decisions you must make concerns the placement of your range — that combination of oven and cooktop, also referred to as a stove. Aside from choosing a location in your kitchen, you might also take inspiration from a 19th century trend (like Victorian brass, which is making a comeback), and consider placing your stove in a dedicated alcove. Food Republic spoke to Matthew Coates of Los Angeles Architects Coates Design, and he was on board with range alcoves. “They can create a little visual depth and make the kitchen more purposeful with a focal point,” he said.
Range alcoves are recessed spaces in the kitchen wall, where your stove fits in either entirely or partially. It keeps the appliance from jutting out into the kitchen space and can make it look more seamless, like a part of the surrounding countertop. “Functionally, they can help trap splatter,” Coates continued, “and offer a spot where you can conceal lighting or little shelves.” The expert cautioned, however, that you must ensure the ventilation is present and done well: “You still need a robust hood, even if it’s hidden.”
To finish off the perfect range alcove, Coates also recommended “some additional lighting, or it will be dark or claustrophobic.” You might consider small built-in lighting elements, strip lights, or even old school lighting fixtures that are on trend once again.
How to make your range alcove look intentional
So, you’ve decided on an area to place your stove… but not just any old nook will do. What you don’t want is a range alcove that draws attention to itself by being out of place in your kitchen. “To make an alcove look like it was supposed to be there and not just like something punched into the wall,” said Matthew Coates, “I like to use tile that adds some texture or variety, such as handmade tile or natural stone.”
You can really make a beautiful range alcove in this way, by choosing colors and textures that integrate into your kitchen’s style. You can also make a statement with bright tiles in hues that draw the eye, while complementing the existing kitchen’s design. Coates advised, “If you’re going to tile inside the alcove, select something that will be easy to clean.” That means choosing a material like ceramic or porcelain, which are easy to wipe down thanks to their flat, smooth surface (just not with vinegar, as the acidic substance can harm the grout). If you want to use brick or stone in your range alcove, it’s best to use those on the facade, where they’re not as likely to get splattered with food and grease.
