What Is a Hidden Induction Cooktop—and Do You Need One?

Over the last few years, induction ranges have surged in popularity. Once maligned by chefs in favor of tried-and-true gas varieties, induction has proven that it's here to stay—and that even the most particular of foodies can rely on it.

One of the many benefits of induction lies in its subtlety. Unlike a gas range, induction options are much more sleek and pared-back, giving your kitchen more visual space.

You can take that logic a step further and conceal the induction cooktop entirely. But how practical is this approach—or does it feel more like a gimmick? Here, we spoke to design experts to learn more about how to do it.

How It Works

So how does this magic trick work? Invisible induction is "installed underneath a kitchen countertop or dining table, allowing you to cook directly on the surface using magnetic energy to heat cookware, not the counter," says Hans King, CEO of InvisaCook.

The system is operated via a control panel, which is typically tucked away in a drawer or placed on the side of the cabinet.

Since the coils are completely obscured beneath the countertop material, the surface can be used normally to prepare ingredients and serve appetizers when you're not cooking.

Benefits

Like regular induction, these hidden stovetops are more energy efficient than their gas range counterparts. There's a safety element as well: Since induction only heats the cookware, there's less risk of burning yourself with an open flame.

Induction will also heat much faster than a gas oven and allows for precise temperature control. So what sets a hidden version apart?

For one, it creates a "clean, seamless surface," says Manuela Marin Martin, product development manager at Cosentino. "Clients especially love the premium look and full integration into the kitchen design."

It's easier to clean, too: You won't have to scrub between nooks and crevices like on a gas oven, and spills won't burn onto the surface.

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Is It Trending?

Experts have noticed an increased demand for hidden induction in recent years. "It's becoming a staple of the modern, custom kitchen," says Kristen Wolff, principal of interior design at Brandon Architects. "The disappearance of visual clutter allows the kitchen to feel like a curated living space, rather than a workshop."

Martin attributes the shift to a "trend toward minimalist, open kitchen designs." Obscured cooktops simply look more high-end—especially if hidden beneath beautiful countertop materials—making the space look much more cohesive.

How to Install

An invisible cooktop is something that you should consider at the start of a kitchen renovation, so you can easily integrate it into your countertop. King emphasizes hiring a certified installer to do the job—the process should only take about 20 to 30 minutes from start to finish.

The type of countertop material you select does matter. King says the technology can only be used with a ceramic material that's heat-resistant, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant, like Cosentino's Dekton line.

"Popular choices tend to be neutral tones inspired by natural stone, especially marbles," says Marin.