Over the past 111 years, V-ZUG has quietly mastered the art of “less is more”. With sleek lines, intuitive technology and an understated design philosophy, the Swiss brand has created a repertoire of appliances that add functionality to kitchens without excess and without clutter.

A minimalist look is by no means easily achieved, though. “Our appliances are very high-end, understated and puristic,” says V-ZUG’s head of design Martin von Freeden. “At the same time, they have a character of their own and a simplicity you can visualise in your mind’s eye. This simplicity is the fine art of iconic design.”

Among the subtle details that V-ZUG has integrated into its designs in recent years is the CircleSlider, an integrated control dial that is milled into the glass displays of its ovens and other appliances. “The milling is a really complex process,” says von Freeden. “To achieve top quality and aesthetics, we debate every millimetre and every pixel.”

Such a detailed approach to scaling back and getting the minute, essential components just right has resulted in a look that is quiet, yet still visually appealing. Haven speaks to two Singaporean designers who have used V-ZUG’s appliances not only in the projects they’ve taken on, but also in their own homes.

‘Clean lines and uncluttered aesthetics’

Selina Tay, founder and principal designer at Collective Designs, says her firm started using V-ZUG’s appliances because of their “seamless integration” with its philosophy of creating timeless spaces.

Tay has used V-ZUG’s appliances in a range of projects, from apartments to semi-detached and detached homes. She notes that the brand’s products fit well across a variety of home types, merging form and function across the board. “V-ZUG’s appliances not only elevate the aesthetics of a space but also enhance its functionality,” she adds. 

In apartments, for instance, she notes that there is a “preference for space-saving and efficient appliances”, adding that a growing emphasis is being placed on incorporating modern features. To this end, Collective Designs has used V-ZUG’s CombiSteam oven and Adora SL dishwasher in some of its apartment projects. These integrated appliances mesh neatly into the carpentry, making them an easy fit even in smaller spaces.

In bigger detached homes, meanwhile, Tay says homeowners tend to seek “premium appliances that enhance both functionality and aesthetics, with a focus on luxury features”. Examples of such products include V-ZUG’s CoffeeCentre and WineCooler. The former is able to make a wide range of coffee drinks, while the latter comes with separate temperature zones to accommodate more than one type of wine.

Tay points out that V-ZUG’s appliances are suitable for many projects not only for their high functionality, but also because their clean aesthetic meshes smoothly with many design themes. “We’ve incorporated V-ZUG’s products into a variety of projects, ranging from contemporary minimalist spaces to classic, traditional interiors,” she says. 

“For instance, in a recent modern apartment, V-ZUG’s sleek and minimalist appliances complemented the overall clean lines of the design. The integration was seamless, enhancing the space’s contemporary aesthetic. In another project with a more traditional style, V-ZUG’s products added a touch of luxury and sophistication without overpowering the classic elements.”

Such versatility, Tay notes, comes from the subtle approach that V-ZUG has adopted in its product designs, paired with a keen eye for detail. Taken together, these form a catalogue of understated yet effective appliances.

“Their clean lines and refined aesthetics effortlessly enhance the overall ambience of a space,” Tay says. These qualities, she adds, ensure that the appliances “remain relevant for years to come” and “elevate the overall user experience”.

‘Long-lasting value’

Edmund Ng is another long-time supporter of V-ZUG, having used its appliances in projects by his firm, Edmund Ng Architects, over the years. These range from single homes to entire developments, such as a 53-unit project.

“In these varied settings, we have utilised a wide array of V-ZUG’s appliances,” says Ng. These include the brand’s ovens, which come in 60cm and 90cm widths to accommodate different kitchen sizes. “Each product has proven to be exceptional, both in performance and design, enhancing the overall living experience.”

Ng particularly appreciates that V-ZUG’s appliances sit at the nexus of “quality, innovation and design”, aligning with the needs of modern homeowners. “While there are many excellent brands available,” he adds, “V-ZUG stands out for its ability to blend cutting-edge technology with elegant design in a way that complements a variety of interior styles.”

Build quality and sustainability are two factors that have made V-ZUG’s appliances stand out for Ng and his team. “In our experience, they not only meet but often exceed expectations, providing long-lasting value,” he says of the brand’s products. “V-ZUG’s commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency is also a big plus, especially as more of our clients are looking for eco-friendly options without sacrificing performance or aesthetics.”

In terms of appearances, Ng likes that the brand has “streamlined designs [with a] discreet presence, allowing the architecture and interior design to take centre stage”. “I also appreciate the range of finishes and the seamless integration of their products into cabinetry, which allows for a cohesive and uncluttered appearance,” he adds.

Ng also notes that V-ZUG’s appliances go well with many different textures. “Their ability to blend with various materials and finishes, from rich wood to polished stone, makes them a perfect fit for any design vision.” 

This ultimately helps with the appliances’ versatility and suitability in all types of homes. “Whether we’re outfitting a minimalist urban apartment or a sprawling GCB, V-ZUG’s appliances consistently deliver on performance and style, enhancing the overall value and aesthetic of the homes we create.”

Walking the talk

While Tay and Ng have many praises to sing about V-ZUG’s products, it’s not just lip service. Both design veterans also use several of the brand’s appliances in their own homes.

“It’s an invaluable tool for our family,” says Tay of the CombiSteam oven; she and Ng have two each. “We particularly appreciate its versatility; the ability to seamlessly transition between steaming, baking, and roasting functions has significantly enhanced our culinary capabilities.”

She adds that since getting the ovens, her family has not needed a microwave oven. “We’ve found the steam function at a lower temperature is exceptional at heating up food safely, retaining nutrients, and preserving texture.”

Meanwhile, Ng says the CombiSteam oven’s wide range of functions allows him to “prepare healthy meals that retain moisture and flavour”. He adds that the oven is  “perfect for everything from baking bread to steaming fish”; the 90cm version, in particular, lets him “roast larger items, like a whole suckling pig, to perfection, achieving a crisp, golden skin”.

Ng also has the RefreshButler, which he describes as a “game-changer” in his laundry routine. The appliance sanitises clothes and even removes wrinkles, reducing the need to bring them to the dry-cleaner’s. “It’s incredibly convenient for refreshing and sanitising clothes, especially delicate fabrics that need gentle care,” he adds.

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