If you’re looking for a spectacular kitchen range that makes an impact both visually and with functionality, this is it! Learn all about our new ILVE range in this comprehensive review.
With a combination of aesthetics, affordability and performance, this beautiful line of appliances is one to consider!
When we bought our lake cottage, we knew that although the bones were great, we’d have a lot of work to do.
Fortunately, we’ve been able to gradually update this home from top to bottom, and still enjoy so much time at the lake. It’s a special place to us, and one where we spend many weekends, holidays and getaways.
Updating the kitchen was one of our bigger undertakings. We swapped out the old tile for new White Oak Floors, added Quartz Countertops, painted the cabinets and installed a new backsplash. Only one important item remained: the range.
We researched so much before buying our Lacanche range for our primary home, and we knew this range needed to work just as hard for our family. As a professional food blogger, appliances need to fill a lot of roles in our kitchen.
I’m so excited to get to cook with (and easily clean) this beautiful new range. Keep reading to learn how and why we chose an ILVE, what we love about it, and all the answers to your burning questions!
What’s ILVE?
First, you might be wondering where this brand came from, and how we landed upon this option.
ILVE (pronounced ill-vay) is an Italian brand of appliances with a wide range of styles for beautiful freestanding ranges, hoods and accessories.
Originally founded in 1952, this is a brand that has stood the test of time internationally, but only more recently entered the market here in the US.
Their ranges are commercial grade, beautifully made, and also available in an incredible range of gorgeous colors. The options are endless, and thankfully, they are a more affordable way to bring beautiful European styling into your home kitchen.
2024 Update
Fans of this brand were concerned when their US website became inactive in early 2024. While there are rumors that this could spell trouble for the brand, they seem to be moving forward with sales at this time. Read more at this link.
While the www.ilveusa.com website is no longer active, the original ILVE page is functioning well. They have separated from the Hallman brand, which was manufactured by ILVE (so their styles and quality of ranges were similar).
Hallman and ILVE are not the same company, and are no longer working together. However, if you’re considering an ILVE, you might also look at Hallman in comparison. More about this below, from the brand itself!
A Word from ILVE (3/28/24 update)
“ILVE has been present in the US market for several years through third-party distribution partnerships.
ILVE is an Italian manufacturer of high-quality kitchen appliances, successfully operating in major international markets for over 50 years.
The values that distinguish the brand are excellent craftsmanship, continuous technological research, and a strong focus on customer relationships.
On December 31st, 2023, ILVE began direct operations in the United States by forming ILVE USA LLC, a subsidiary responsible for promotion, sales, and support nationwide.
Operating through our own subsidiary signifies ILVE’s commitment to understanding the nuances and dynamics of the US market, especially customer satisfaction.
Like many manufacturers, ILVE was previously commissioned to produce appliances sold under other brands. Namely, products manufactured by ILVE were branded as Hallman and distributed by them.
This activity was definitively concluded on December 31st, 2023, and the Hallman brand is no longer associated with ILVE.
It also confirms ILVE’s commitment to managing its brand responsibly and in the best interest of customers.”
Why You’ll Love this Range
- There are 213 incredible custom colors to choose from – choose wisely and pick one that you know you’ll love as much today as you do down the road.
- Other trim finish metals are chrome, bronze and copper. I chose brass to work with our unlacquered brass hardware and bridge kitchen faucet!
- ILVE is a proud producer of induction ranges, which are actually a more sustainable choice for home kitchens. They are great for cooking and are the next big thing in home kitchens!
- However, they also make dual fuel ranges – with a gas cooktop and electric oven. Do your research to decide what’s best for your needs.
Our ILVE Range Details
- 30″ Majestic II
- White (I was very close to getting this beautiful blue grey color – what do you think, did I make the right decision sticking with white?)
- Electric (Induction)
- No Window
- Brass Trim
Functional Features
- Smooth Cooktop for easy cleaning
- Induction Technology
- Touch Screen Operation
- Fast Pre-Heat
- Convection Oven
- 3.5 cu. ft. Total Oven Capacity
- Defrost Function
- Warming Drawer
Tips
- Ensure that your wiring capabilities are right for an ILVE – see note about electrical below.
- Unbox your range and be sure to inspect carefully for damage before signing the Bill of Lading.
- For cleaning your induction stovetop, simply use soap and water with a microfiber glass cleaning cloth, and polish to shine.
- You can still use your cast iron cookware on an induction cooktop – just use it carefully.
- Try a silicone mat for your induction cooktop to prevent scratches and make cleaning easier!
ILVE Range Electrical Specifications
One thing that’s important to consider when purchasing an ILVE induction range is that they require a four-prong outlet.
In our home (which was built in the 90s), we had to have new wiring added to accommodate this type of hook-up. It was totally worth it, but something that everyone should note!
- 220 – 240 Volts
- 50 Amps
- 4 Prong Wire
Frequently Asked Questions
Dual fuel ranges combine the best of both worlds – with a gas cooktop and an electric range, you’ll get the right heating element no matter what you’re cooking!
There are three specific ILVE range styles: Majestic, Nostalgia, and Techno. The Majestic features the old-world European style and can be induction or dual fuel. The Nostalgie is also a vintage-inspired style, but features gas cooking. The Techno is a much more contemporary and modern look.
In comparison to other high end European ranges, they are actually quite affordable. However, they are certainly on the higher end of ranges for home kitchens overall. Our 36″ ILVE lists for just under $7,000.
How did you coordinate this range with other appliances? I am having a hard time finding a refrigerator and dish washer to coordinate this with.
Oh no! I have a panel ready dishwasher and haven’t decided on a refrigerator yet.
Have you looked at the Cafe series? They are are relatively affordable, come in white and brass hardware: https://www.cafeappliances.com/appliance/Cafe-ENERGY-STAR-22-3-Cu-Ft-Smart-Counter-Depth-4-Door-French-Door-Refrigerator-CXE22DP4PW2
Julie,
Could you share where you purchased your floors. I too live on the water and Iโm looking for something light.
Hi Susan!
They are white oak floors – you can read all about them and find the link for these exact floors in the post!
Enjoy,
Julie
Love your range! Iโm contemplating the same one but still deciding on the color. Iโm thinking just the standard white but there are a few other shades of white on the ral chart. Itโs hard to know which one would be best with my simply white cabinets. Thank you!
I know! For reference, my cabinets are also Simply White.
I donโt usually think of appliances being beautiful, but this range really is gorgeous! This info will come in handy as I am beginning the process of rehabbing my kitchen. So much to consider!
Thank you! I can’t help but love a little focal point in something that often feels “meh”. It made our builder grade kitchen feel special!
Julie, I love your new lake kitchen. I am also in the throโs of a lake house renovation and have taken much inspiration from your post.
I noticed in this kitchen, the door pulls appear to have more projectionโฆ easier for larger fingers to use. Would you please comment on your source for them? Thank you enjoy your beautiful homes.
Hi Linda,
Thanks so much for the kind words. Yes, I love these pulls, and they are actually on sale right now. They are the modern Mission style bin pulls you’ll find linked in the shop, here: https://julieblanner.com/shop/hardware/
Enjoy, and thanks again!
Julie