Retail Observer

RETAILOBSERVER.COM NOVEMBER 2021 20 Creating a social space within the kitchen where the host can face guests and family members while cooking becomes one of the hallmarks of this new downdraft without distraction to the senses. • Smell: An all-new automatic function guided by an air quality sensor – detects odor and reacts automatically. Key to its performance is the intuitive automatic function which self-regulates the ventilation power settings while the cooktops are in use. An integrated hyper-reactive air quality sensor automatically detects odor and steam and quietly extracts them from the room, using the lowest power setting necessary, thus eliminating the need to monitor the air quality so the chef can concentrate on creating exceptional cuisine. The new Vario 400 Series Downdraft Ventilation also integrates with Home Connect which monitors filter saturation levels, adjusting the air quality sensor and sending a notification when the filters need to be reset or regenerated. • Sound: It is the quietest Gaggenau downdraft yet. Exclusive to Gaggenau, an entirely bespoke engineered end-to-end ventilation system reduces noise thanks to holistically designed, special metal ducting accessories and an assortment of high- performing blowers to optimize the airflow and control the sound no matter the design or configuration. This ensures the downdraft ventilation operates as silently as possible, allowing for enjoyable cooking and entertaining in the same space. • Sight: Design flexibility and clear sightlines. Creating the ultimate social space where the host's back is not to their guests and family members while cooking. Unlike traditional hood solutions, the modularity of the integrated system – Vario 400 Series Downdraft Ventilation – not only works in perfect combination with the Vario cooktops from the same series such as gas, wok, induction, grill or Teppan Yaki but allows for more design flexibility. Whether designing with islands or against the wall, this downdraft solution eliminates the placement limitations of cooktops that would come with traditional hoods. This hand- crafted appliance is finished in stainless steel with solid cast-iron grates and can be installed either flush or surface-mounted. Its subtle ability to blend in with the surface of the cooktop is vital in the modern kitchen and allows for open sightlines. Available for the first time in North America, Gaggenau offers space-saving placement of the new modular metal ducting solution and an opportunity to place one of the new optional blowers in the toe-kick, maximizing the space within the cabinetry for additional drawer space or an oven underneath. To further the design benefits and without added cost, Gaggenau is pleased to offer a special planning service that supports the most stringent of ventilation requirements with completely customized schematics. • Touch: Cleanup is a breeze. An all-new 7-layer metal grease filter is the first step to ensure the perfect catch of grease, steam and odor. The appliance housing is made from anodized aluminum. Its construction provides the smoothest surface for cleaning, offering unrivaled hygiene. Designed for easy removal, a filtration saturation indicator will alert when it is time for cleaning with two ergonomic handles and a guided exit to help prevent oil from spilling from the integrated grease tank. The filters are dishwasher safe and the appliance housing can be easily wiped down with a sponge. I N D U S T R Y [ N E W S ]

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