We have a 136 year old Victorian and just renovated the kitchen. I was dead set against a stainless range as I felt it wouldn't work with the look of the house. I knew that the cooking capabilities of the Bluestar were far superior but was thinking I'd go with asthetics over function.

I was in love with the look of the La Cornue Cornufe ranges and was convinced these were what would work best. I had a hard time finding a place that had the Albertine in person but finally found one.
Once I saw the quality of the product I was very disappointed. In person it looked fake and poorly made.
I never had the opportunity to cook with the Cornufe Albertine so can't speak to that. I'm sure it would be as good as most high end professional ranges. I will say I love my Bluestar and am so happy I went this route. In the end it looks great in my kitchen and doesn't feel out of place. Because Bluestar ranges are so bare bones it works. The cast iron burners feel old and as they've been there for quite some time. My cabinetry and hardware all were designed to look like they'd always been there. My refrigerator and dishwasher are fully integrated so there's not a lot of stainless showing (only range and wall oven/microwave).

If you haven't seen the Albertine in person, I'd suggest you find it and decide for yourself.

I love cooking on my Bluestar (2 1/2 months so far) and know, for me, it was the right decision.

Best of luck to you.

Joe

I don't know if you've decided, but I have a used LaCornue Chateau GC 90 gas range for sale. The color is forest green and has stainless steel finishes. The burners (4) are brass and the center of the cooktop contains a French plaque. It is 9 years old but in very good condition. If you google LaCornue, you can get the dimensions of the GC 90. Of course, there is some wear and tear on the plaque and burners, but any range over time would have this. It adds to the rustic appeal and is a very handsome range. I have no doubt that it is perfectly funcional and would gladly forward photos. It was owned previously by a person that barely used it and still looks great. I would love to sell it for $4,5oo and I live in Chicago. Let me know if interested!

Andrea