hot.bloc is a kitchen top hob designed for versatility and convenience in the smaller city kitchen. By combining the wonders of induction cooking with Richlite (the wood-like surface top); hot.bloc turns a wooden chopping board into an incredibly simple, elegant and versatile kitchen appliance.
Why?
The foundation for this project was a fascination for induction heating and its almost magic ability to heat up iron or steel internally without a flame or element. Although already used in kitchen stoves I felt it still had the potential to be applied in a more surprising way.
One of my favourite items in the kitchen is a simple wooden chopping board. An item that stains, warps and becomes scarred over time. A simple and pure product that can add warmth and character.
Was it possible to combine induction with wood to make a chopping board that could magically heat food without actually getting hot?
One of my favourite items in the kitchen is a simple wooden chopping board. An item that stains, warps and becomes scarred over time. A simple and pure product that can add warmth and character.
Was it possible to combine induction with wood to make a chopping board that could magically heat food without actually getting hot?
The large Richlite has a similar warmth and feel to wood but with much higher temperature resistance and machinability. It is kind on knives, non-porous and stain resistant. A perfect surface for preparing and chopping food.
Hidden underneath the surface are three induction coils controlled by three separate magnetic dials. The user is provided with a family of specifically designed flat stainless steel grill plates and interlocking Teflon coated grills. These can be used in any way to form a large and versatile cooking area. hot.bloc also works with ferrous pot and pans.
As induction cooking only ever heats the pan, grill or plate, the Richlite surface will only ever warm due to residual heat and is always safe to touch.
After cooking, the magnetic control dials can be removed and placed in the dishwasher along with grill plates. The surface is easily wiped and can be looked after like any chopping board.
