Metal has a new purpose at Nambé, as the tabletop company expanded its metal line to introduce casseroles and bakers at the recent tabletop market.
Using its Butterfly shape, one of its most popular designs and designed by Neil Cohen, the company now offers five sculpted baking vessels that will bring a stylish shape to the table.
Over the last year, the company has been exploring subcategories such as baby products, frames, and now bakeware, within its main product groups of dinnerware, flatware, crystal and metal, said Robert Varakian, president.
Though the company had casseroles in the line years ago, it wanted “to start from scratch,” Varakian said.
The result—Sculpted Ovenware by Nambé—is made of the company’s patented metal alloy that provides even heat distribution for cooking. Oven safe to 500 degrees, the line has thermal capabilities designed to keep food warm while the exterior cools down. It can also be used to store foods in the refrigerator to retain coldness.
The interior of the bakeware has a non-stick coating—a first from the company—from Whitford. Instead of handles or knobs, the line incorporates finger grips that are tucked out of the way so the design is not interrupted. The initial group consists of a one-, two- and three-quart casserole dishes with concave lids, as well as two bakers in one- and two-quart sizes. Retail prices will range from $150 to $300. The company wanted to start with the basics, Varakian said. In the future the line could grow to include such items as gravy boats and paella pans. It will also be a “strong bridal registry” product, he added.
Varakian added that this will mark the first time it is using a product image on the packaging.
“It reinforces the functionality of the product,” Varakian said. “The ovenware needed more explanation.”—Andrea Lillo