One Kettle

A kettle is a small but essential part of the modern kitchen—a tool that blends utility with daily ritual. Whether you’re brewing your morning coffee or steeping tea for guests, a well-designed kettle adds efficiency and style to your routine. The right kettle does more than boil water; it enhances the experience of simple, everyday moments.

The one kettle we think you should own is the Alessi 9091 Kettle.

The Alessi 9091 kettle, designed by the renowned Richard Sapper and originally launched in 1982, brings an artful blend of form, function, and nostalgia into the kitchen. Made from mirror-polished stainless steel, this kettle features a black PA handle and a magnetic steel bottom, enabling even heat distribution on all types of stovetops, including induction hobs. The kettle has a capacity of 200 cl.

What truly sets the 9091 kettle apart is its distinctive melodic whistle, crafted from brass in a unique design that diverges from traditional boiler whistles. Inspired by Sapper’s childhood memories of boat sirens on the Rhine, the kettle’s whistle consists of two small vents with built-in tuners that play the notes “mi” and “si” when the water reaches a boil. This thoughtful detail transforms a simple alert into an inviting melody, making the boiling process a pleasant, calming experience rather than an interruption.

This kettle is a true polysensory piece, merging sound and design to enhance the experience. It is compatible with both gas and induction hobs, and Alessi supports the product’s longevity by offering replacement parts to keep it in service for years to come.

Overall, the 9091 kettle is both a functional tool and a timeless addition to any kitchen, designed to make each tea or coffee ritual a memorable one.

If you’re interested in other products designed by Richard Sapper, you can also consider the 9090 espresso maker. Sapper’s 1979 rocket-shaped stove-top coffee maker was Alessi’s first product for the kitchen. It won the company’s first Compasso d’Oro award in 1979 and is included in the permanent collection at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Also Consider

You can also consider Sori Yanagi’s Stainless Steel Kettle. This kettle was first launched in 1994. In 2013, it received the Good Design Long Life Design Award.