The defining feature of a classic kitchen, the range cooker tops the wish-list of many period homeowners - and for good reason. Once the powerhouse of the home, providing heating, hot water and a space to prepare food, range cookers could be found in humble cottages to grand houses.
Photograph (left) Kasia Fiszer
Originally designed to be run on solid fuel, the traditional cast-iron range is still in production today, and is a popular option for those living off mains gas. However, with the rise of central heating, the modern range became focused on efficiency and food production. Working the same way as conventional ovens, usually either gas or electricity, they have multiple cooking cavities and plenty of hob space as well as a wide range of specialist additions, from griddles and rotisseries to self-cleaning functionality. Available in every shade of the rainbow, with several companies also offering custom colourways, there is a variety of range cooker designs, styles and fuel types to choose from.