These kitchen heroes are universal favourites for a reason – they’re proven hard workers (and look stylish to boot)
When it comes to kitchenware, it’s OK to have favourites. Picture the contents of your cupboards – some pieces emerge once a year, dusted off for their big moment around Christmastime, but some are the everyday staples.
Kitchen icons go beyond trends because they’re so well made, ticking the boxes of form and function. These are the heroes you can’t imagine cooking, prepping or drinking without.
With so many new brands on the block, the choice can be overwhelming. But you can invest in these six iconic designs, safe in the knowledge that they’ve already proved themselves.
Denby Imperial Blue Teapot
Denby Pottery has been making collectable designs from Derbyshire clay since 1806. Considering our nationwide passion for a cuppa, it’s no surprise teapots are among Denby’s bestsellers. Imperial blue looks contemporary, but it’s one of the classic Denby colours.
Dualit Lite 2-Slice Toaster with Warming Rack
Enablers of hot buttery toast everywhere, the Dualit commercial toaster was created in London in 1952. Not only good-looking and reliable, the products are also built to last with all parts fully replaceable or repairable. Look after your Dualit toaster and it’ll look after your breakfast for years.
Fiskars Classic Universal Scissors
Not bad for something that’s more than 50 years old, Fiskars scissors are recognisable by their orange plastic handles. They feature in design museums around the world (yes, really) and each pair endures rigorous quality control at the factory in Finland.
SABATIER Fully Forged Chef’s Knife
Sabatier carbon steel chef’s knives were first made in France in the early 1800s. More than 200 years later, they’re a much-loved staple in many a kitchen. Still made in the city of Thiers, Knife author Tim Hayward says they remain a cut above the competition.
Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Casserole
Le Creuset’s casserole in Volcanic is so frequently used and treasured by home cooks that it has become a symbol for comfort food. First created in Paris in 1925, the brand’s offering has grown in size and colour, but the premise is the same: beautifully crafted, reliable products.
Waterford Crystal Lismore Tumblers
Waterford has been producing crystal glassware since the 18th century. A handsome feature in homes and restaurants around the world, the Lismore pattern has been making nightcaps more elegant since it was designed in 1952.
Photography: Rob White
