What is an AGA? Experts explain the heirloom cooker that's becoming the focus of every on-trend kitchen

An AGA is nothing new. In fact, some of the oldest AGAs can date back to the early 1990s. But they do seem to be having a resurgence, with many of the trendiest kitchens we are seeing right now being focused around this traditional cooker. But what exactly is an AGA? And what are the benefits (both in terms of aesthetics and practicality) of adding one to your kitchen?

Perhaps you’re planning your next kitchen remodel and want to go after a classic English kitchen look, or could it be that you have been to a friend’s dinner party and sampled an AGA-prepared meal, only to be blown away by the flavorsome menu. Either way, knowing what an AGA is and how it works is key to deciding if it's right for you.

A short history of the AGA

The AGA brand has over a century of history behind it, dating back to the 1800s.

The official AGA was invented by a Swedish physicist, Dr Gustaf Dalén in 1922, following the invention of the range cooker by William Flevel in 1830 that was cannily called 'the Kitchener,' describing its all-singing and dancing capabilities that allowed homebodies to prepare all types of meals using one heat source.

Baking, roasting, boiling, and warming food were now all easily done in the same good-looking vessel, it was then the development of gas and electricity which led to the development of the AGA we have loved for so many years. Success moved to Britain in 1929 to Shropshire where the cookers are still made today. Demand for this revolutionary cooking device grew, including in the US, especially throughout the war years.

How does an AGA work?

AGA cookers function using radiant heat. Unlike a conventional oven that might dry food out or scorch it, food prepared in an AGA is more delicious and can help retain nutrients too.

'AGA heat-storage ovens cook differently, using gentle radiant heat to lock all the flavor, moisture, and goodness into food,' affirms Kathryn Lowe, Head of Marketing at AGA. 'As any AGA owner will tell you, these ovens are amazing for succulent roasts, perfectly baked cakes, crispy roast potatoes, and myriad other dishes.'

Anyone who is well-versed in using slow cookers will especially appreciate its capabilities. 'Slow-cooked AGA food tastes amazing and it’s one of the reasons the cooker is so famous. But the AGA is also brilliant at baking, roasting, stir-frying, bread making, pizzas – and just about anything else you can think of,' continues Kathryn. Should you want the flexibility to rustle up quicker meals throughout the week, for example, modern models give you the best of both worlds.

'There are now AGA range cookers that feature induction hobs, grills and fan ovens alongside the classic AGA hotplate and cast-iron, heat-storage ovens,' says Kathryn who notes how modern AGA cookers are programmable, some even have an eco mode. 'The hotplates on new models are more economical, as they have fast heat-up times and are designed to be on only when in use saving a considerable amount of energy.'

The AGA Aesthetic

For those looking to add a distinctly cottage cozy feel with a hint of nostalgia to their cooking space, all while investing in one of the most renowned cooking appliances, a true AGA will not disappoint. It's often used by interior designers to add an element of timelessness to a home.

'AGAs and range cookers are the most popular and most desirable cookers for our style of kitchens, they stand out and feel authentic and almost always become the focal point within the kitchen, almost having a personality of their own,' shares Helen Parker, Creative Director, deVOL Kitchens. ‘Their freestanding design gives a more robust and simple vibe, much more so than having integrated hobs and ovens.' An AGA can be a statement in itself or included more organically, either way, it will make a heritage addition.

When it comes to colors, the vitreous enamel coating comes in an array of hues, so it can either become a statement or blend in with the rest of your kitchen color scheme. We have seen many examples of a colorful stove being used to create a focal point, it's like the new feature wall or colorful island.

A beautifully colorful stove like an AGA could even be the starting point of your kitchen’s design. There are 17 collection colors to choose from with AGA, and a bespoke color-matching service too, should you want to keep the shade in line with your kitchen cabinet color.

Should you get an AGA?

An AGA makes a beautiful range cooker that will stay with you for life. Naturally, when choosing the best kitchen appliances for your home, consider how you like to cook, the look you like in your kitchen, and your budget. An AGA is an investment, it is a little like choosing a lifestyle and taking the opportunity to slow down and savor your kitchen surroundings.

With that said, an AGA is not just reserved for those that spend ample time cooking and designs are now more flexible than ever. 'It really is a case of if you think you know AGA, think again as technical innovations and additions have made the cooker perfect for 21st-century life,' explains Kathryn. 'For example, today new AGA models are powered by electricity and can run alongside renewables.'

The advances in technology mean that AGAs have continued to set the standard in cooking, catering to the needs of the modern family, in different types of home. 'In the past, the AGA cooker was very much seen as a country house cooker but today they are as likely to be seen in a suburban home or new-build property as they are in a rural farmhouse.'

There are many ways way to style a range cooker and a true AGA will look beautiful, in contemporary and more traditional homes alike. Aesthetically and AGA is a stunning addition to a kitchen and it can create a real focal point, and practically they are be an asset too, especially if you are an passionate home cook.