A stage set for the Jetsons or a state-of-the-art science lab? Solaris “doesn’t look like any other kitchens,” says the designer, Pietro Arosio. It looks like a prototype for the future: projecting culture and lifestyle into another time period. The tapered modern form is predominantly Corian, supported by spindly stainless steel legs. From the integrated lamp connected by a steel tubular rod to the stainless steel vertebra that conceal the system’s plumbing and wiring, Solaris is ahead of its time.

Solaris. Designed by Pietro Arosio for Ernestomeda.

The single, seamless surface integrates a washing area, hob area and worktop. A splash guard, or curved screen, is molded from the Corian surface, creating a distinctive profile for the system. The latest in Ernestomeda‘s modern and modular kitchen designs, Solaris exemplifies the youth and dynamism of this Italian company. The wash area consists of a large and small basin, also formed from the same Corian surface. An arching chrome-plated faucet with an extractable spray head emerges from the surface along with a lamp by means of a steel tubular rod. The lamp, which hovers above the sink area, features an opaline glass screen and is finished in Corian, as used throughout the system. The smooth ceramic hob (or stove) consists of four variable temperature-cooking zones, and without knobs or grills, is a smooth transition from the worktop.

Looking beyond its sleek form, one has to wonder where the everyday kitchen necessities, from pots and pans, to food and plateware, can be stored. The drawer unit, a container on 4 swivel wheels with a drawer and a pull-out basket, also finished in Corian, is likely not the answer. Although it can house knives and other kitchen essentials, it won’t fulfill your kitchen storage needs. Ernestomeda’s “File” closets or the M.O.D.E. closet system can accompany Solaris. Both are ergonomically designed for an average sized person (both in height and depth for ease and comfort of use). M.O.D.E. features an oven column, a dish washer and a refrigerator with freezer and is finished in a glossy, white lacquer while the “File” closet is derived from typical office furniture, finished in matte black laquer.

Kitchen design is moving beyond convention to accomodate modern-day lifestyles and living spaces.  Colonello’s On/Off Kitchen for Boffi (whose name says it all) and Invitrum by Valcucine, designed to be disassembled at the end of its lifecycle, introduce revolutionary concepts for kitchens.  Ernestomeda’s Solaris offers a slim design suitable for compact spaces and open environments blurring the boundaries between living, cooking and dining.