Functionality is often top of mind when selecting a gas stove range. You’ll want to consider space as well as your cooking habits to find the right kitchen appliance for you and your family. But a gas stove range is more than just an essential for serving up delicious meals. Through design decisions, such as adding a matte black finish or brass knobs that pop, a gas range can turn into a powerful element that anchors the entire kitchen. “A statement gas stove, whether with a unique color, professional-grade appearance, or vintage charm, draws attention and adds character,” says Danielle Chiprut, principal and founder of Danielle Rose Design Co.
Gone are the days when selecting a cooking appliance was looked at as the not-so-fun part of the design process, agrees Kara Adam, principal and founder of Kara Adam Interiors in Dallas. “[A freestanding gas range] can become a focal point for the overall kitchen aesthetic and can be just as important as other decorative selections,” she explains. Simply put, the options are, well, wide-ranging, which is why we asked interior designers for their best tips when selecting this very important appliance. Below, find answers to common gas stove range questions, inspiration from AD-approved projects, and recommendations for top-notch ranges.
What is the difference between a gas stove and a gas range?
Gas stove and gas range may sometimes be used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different components, Chiprut explains. “A gas stove typically refers to just the cooktop (the burners only),” she explains. This can often be built into a countertop.
Meanwhile, a gas range refers to the full appliance, including the stovetop and an integrated oven, making it a single all-in-one appliance. “Ranges are often used in larger kitchens to create a cohesive look, while separate stoves may be ideal for layouts that call for built-in ovens in other locations,” Chiprut says. Many ranges are ‘dual fuel,’ which means the burners are gas and the oven is electric, adds Margaret Donaldson, interior designer and founder of MDI Luxury Design in Charleston. These kitchen appliances may also include features such as front control panels, a convection oven, a broiler, and a fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish. A self-cleaning setting and easy-to-remove grates can help keep your kitchen mess-free.
What is the average life of a gas stove?
“The average lifespan of a gas stove is typically around 15 to 20 years,” says Rachel Morrison, senior designer and vice president at Morrison Interiors in Costa Mesa, California. However, this can vary based on factors like brand, usage, maintenance, and the quality of installation, she explains.
How can I find the best cooktop for my needs? Is gas or electric range better?
When it comes to gas burners, a flame may provide familiarity and comfort to those who associate fire with cooking, explain interior designers Kevin Kaminski and Alexis Pew of Kaminski + Pew in Philadelphia. “Gas also offers a higher level of control when cooking compared to induction and has a better visual representation of the heat level,” Pew says. Meanwhile, electric ranges have their own advantages such as being more energy-efficient and safer to use.
