Tag Archives: Tableware

Odd drinking cup was designed to work in zero-gravity space without a straw

Posted on by

Hollywood has romanticized the idea of living in space or on other planets, but our current technologies have yet to catch up to the future painted by science fiction. Never mind the risks of blasting off into space, living on a space station can be extremely challenging, especially in the absence of gravity. Zero-G, as it is often called, can be fun once in a while and in short bursts, but having to constantly live in that environment turns activities we consider normal and mundane into an exercise in patience. The simple act of drinking, for example, requires sipping from a straw all the time, not exactly the most comfortable method for enjoying precious Earth liquids in space. That’s the problem that this space cup solves, but it accomplishes this impressive feat by taking on a shape that is almost literally out of this world.

Designer: Donald Pettit, Mark Weislogel

It’s only logical that liquids wouldn’t stay still inside a cup without the power of gravity, which is why drinks in space are taken from pouches with straws attached to them. It’s a simple and practical solution that makes drinking feel more like a mechanical act of survival than something that is enjoyed and treasured like those on Earth. NASA researcher Mark Weislogel and NASA astronaut Donald Pettit worked together, the former on Earth, the other on the International Space Station, to come up with a design that brings back the comforting experience of drinking normally from a cup.

The secret behind this “zero gravity coffee cup” is twofold. One is the special design where the cup has sharp crevices where two edges meet. The other is the way liquid behaves when placed in such a receptacle in zero gravity. The liquid is naturally drawn to those narrow spaces following the principle of capillary channel flow and, as if by magic, actually sticks to those edges without spilling out.

Owning the title of being the first cup that was actually designed in space, this zero-gravity drinkware’s first form was actually just a sheet of Mylar taped together at the edges to form a teardrop-shaped container. Of course, such a design hardly counts as a comfortable cup to drink from, so a more refined 3D printed food-grade plastic cup was made on Earth. Another model, this time made from ceramic, was later developed and became the first patented product invented outside of our planet.

The space cup’s unusual shape has raised a few eyebrows, and while it’s now available for sale on Earth from some sources, it doesn’t have the same magical capabilities demonstrated in zero-gravity space. Its alien design, however, does show how outside-the-box thinking will be necessary to have more “normal” experiences in space, and we have to expect that the first generation of what we consider to be ordinary products will take on sometimes unusual forms just so they can function in the same way.

The post Odd drinking cup was designed to work in zero-gravity space without a straw first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Tiny Tableware For A Neat & Well-Organized Dinner Table

Posted on by

Sitting down to share a meal with someone is a truly enriching and connective experience. You always feel the need to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment for your dinner partner – especially if you’re hosting the dinner! The correct set of cutlery and tableware is exceptionally important to create a wonderful ambiance for a meal. They have the potential to completely transform your dining experience, taking away attention even from the food! Designers have been getting extremely creative when it comes to cutlery. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and tiny tableware designs that are sure to be the highlight of your next dinner party, without occupying too much space.

1. Playful Palm Grater

This playful little product is quite aptly called the Playful Palm Grater. It is designed to add some functional fun to your kitchen, and everyday dining experience. You can fit the grater into the palm of your hand, and grate fresh garnishes directly into your food on the dining table, adding a lovely gourmet touch to your meals.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The charming tiny product looks like a curled piece of paper. It is crafted from a single aluminum alloy plate and comes in a bunch of fun colors, allowing you to pick the one that best complements your kitchen/dining space.

What we like

  • Minimal and unique form that provides a firm grip
  • Converts the simple act of grating into something simple and fun

What we dislike

  • As much as we love its small and convenient size, that limits it from grating large amounts of food

2. Imre’s Hug Cup

Called Imre’s Hug Cup, this cute little mug was designed to embody the designer’s belief that, “we give special attention to things we use in our everyday life. We like to have a personal relation to the objects we touch closely, such as a cup.” The innovative design offers a unique take on the mug’s traditional side handle.

Why is it noteworthy?

The mug allows users to securely grip the Hug Cup while letting them feel the warmth of the liquid contents inside. Imre says “The whole cup creates an intimate tunnel through the cup itself for your finger, you may enjoy the heat of your beverage without burning your palm.”

What we like

  • Provides an innovative and contemporary twist on a typical mug design

What we dislike

  • It could take a while to adjust to the new form of the handle. Some users could find it uncomfortable to use

3. Sustainable Cutlery Set

Named the Sustainable Cutlery Set, this sustainable and guilt-free cutlery set is crafted using Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP. The utensils are quite durable and light and are packaged in reusable and recyclable packaging. The cutlery set is designed to last a long time, so you don’t need to stress about their longevity.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The set has a lot of mechanical strength, so the knife and fork won’t simply break if your steak is well done. The various elements of the set can be split in half, making them easy to carry around. The parts can be easily screwed and unscrewed while ensuring a strong connection.

What we like

  • The cutlery set is sustainable but also made to last
  • Easy-to-carry and portable design

What we dislike

  • Handles might be too thin for large hands, making them tough to use

4. Plate Grater

This unique grater combines a plate’s functionality with a grater’s practicality. It looks like a round little plate, and you can set it on your table, rather than using it up in the air. It is excellent for grating fresh garnishing to add to your meal, or to prepare some fresh wasabi for your sushi.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative grater/plate design is a cool dual-functional product, that serves as an efficient grater, and a stylish plate. It is quite aesthetically pleasing, but also conveniently grates fresh ingredients at the table, adding a refined touch to your food.

What we like

  • Lets you grate fresh garnishing onto your meals
  • Adds a refined gourmet touch to your meals

What we dislike

  • Users may not be used to its dual purpose, so a certain period of adjustment is needed

5. SALT

You don’t need to step out of your home to experience the amazing moment of salt formation. Croatian firm BOIR has now brought this precious experience to your home. Dubbed SALT, this portable saltworks is designed to preserve the authentic taste of natural Mediterranean Sea salt which is rich in minerals and oligo-elements.

Why is it noteworthy?

SALT comes along with a bottle of – Nin 28 Bé° – which is concentrated Adriatic seawater (brine). You just need to pour a thin layer of brine into the salt pan, and expose it to the sun for an hour, heat it in the oven. A crystal pattern then appears, which can be harvested with a mini rake! Serve the salt fresh!

What we like

  • Allows you to harvest salt in the comfort of your own home

What we dislike

  • The process needs a bit of time and patience and isn’t a quick experience

6. Mt. Fuji Cutlery Rests

Inspired by Japan’s most iconic summit – Mt.Fuji, these Itadaki cutlery provide a luxurious metal accessory that features simple forms with intricate engravings. The rests are lavish little tableware accents, that also serve as testaments to fine craftsmanship. The cutlery’s unique form perfectly encapsulates the mighty mountain.

Click Here to Buy Now: $219

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese-inspired cutlery isn’t simply a flat block of metal, it slightly slopes upwards toward the middle, which forms a flat stump at the peak. This image reminds you of Mt.Fuji, and the curves are great for holding forks, knives, spoons, or chopsticks.

What we like

  • The pretty cutlery also captures Japan’s seasons of yielding cherry blossoms
  • Created as a tribute to Japanese craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • The cutlery set can only hold two utensils

7. Earth-Friendly Tumbler

Say hello to PAPLUS – a new kind of thermoplastic resin that merges biodegradable paper to add heat resistance, durability, and moldability which the usual PLA lacks. This little earth-friendly tumbler is made using this material, making it a boon to the environment.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The earth-friendly tumbler utilizes an environment-friendly material to build a unique texture, which is much like the surface of ceramic or wooden cups. As you take a sip from the tumbler, a wonderful flavor is brought to your tongue, which creates a unique sensation on your lips.

What we like

  • It elevates the simple act of drinking water to an entirely new sensory experience
  • It has a heat resistance of 120°, letting you enjoy hot as well as cold drinks

What we dislike

  • The natural color of the tumbler can fade from use, and become uneven over time, which may not be liked by users

8. Electric Chopsticks

Electric Chopsticks Design

Electric Chopsticks

This innovative project by Kirin Holdings and the Miyashita Laboratory (Meiji University Dr. Homei Miyashita Laboratory of the Department of Frontier Media Science, School of Interdisciplinary Mathematical Sciences) is not only a great tableware for your dinner table but also takes care of your health concerns!

Why is it noteworthy?

The chopsticks are created to make low-sodium food delicious, so you can relish food with low-sodium content, letting you take good care of your health. The chopsticks are a must-have for those who need to go on a low-sodium diet.

What we like

  • Builds a sense of saltiness in low-sodium food
  • The chopsticks use a weak electrical current to transmit sodium ions from the food to your mouth

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage, not an actual product yet, so we don’t know how well it will function in reality

9. Eatsy

Jexter asked himself a simple question, “How might we design an adaptive tableware to enhance the dining experience for the visually impaired?”. And he then created Eatsy – a set of multi-functional tableware including a plate, bowl, cup, and other utensils incorporated with a silicone flap.

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique silicone flap can be used to increase the ease of usage while reducing the stigma by merging with existing tableware. It is designed for the visually impaired, allowing them to feel the edge of the container, and helping them through their tasks, by guiding them to pour water correctly into the cup.

What we like

  • Subtly offer unique sensory cues for the visually impaired

What we dislike

  • Requires user to have a firm grip on the cup

10. Earth-Stacking Cup

You can now enjoy your favorite beverage in a minimal and stylish stacking cup which is designed to save the environment. It is crafted from eco-friendly synthetic materials and has a unique texture which makes the drinking experience quite sensory and engaging.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The texture of the cup is like ceramic or wood, and it provides a sensory experience to your mouth and lips. The cup embodies minimal aesthetics and sustainable practices and provides a soul-enriching drinking experience that you will never forget.

What we like

  • The cup is crafted from plant-derived biodegradable resin
  • Material biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide through natural microbial action

What we dislike

  • The cup is quite common to other cups on the market, nothing sets it apart

The post Top 10 Tiny Tableware For A Neat & Well-Organized Dinner Table first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nendo’s redesigned chopsticks intertwine into each other to create a singular cohesive form

Posted on by

Chopsticks are a 4000-year-old eating implement that has remained untouched. And, for almost four centuries, the quaint town of Obama in Fukui Prefecture, Japan has manufactured beautiful lacquered chopsticks. The lacquered chopsticks are considered the hardest and the most beautiful of the Japanese lacquer chopsticks, and they’ve been named ‘Wakasa-nuri’. Nendo teamed up with Hashikuru Matsukan – a manufacturer who has continued the Obama legacy. Nendo gave a contemporary and innovative twist to the age-old chopsticks!

Designer: Nendo

Called the Rassen or spiral chopsticks, these unique chopsticks merge fun and functionality to create a product that is quintessentially Japanese, yet quite contemporary. The Rassen chopsticks can be joined together to create one convenient single unit, and they can be detached or separated whenever you need to use them! Rather than having two separate pieces of tableware, you have a single unit in the shape of an elongated cone. When you pull both the chopsticks apart, you notice an interesting twist in their wooden handles.

The entire experience of bringing the chopsticks together and then separating them becomes a fun and amusing experience. It feels like you’re playing with a jigsaw puzzle! Using the chopsticks to eat your meals, brings joy and a certain sense of playfulness to your everyday ordinary meals. Putting them back together is really quite swift and easy too, and it eliminates the fear of losing one of them.

While designing the Rassen chopsticks Nendo had the intention of giving people a small ‘!’ moment. We often find many small ‘!’ moments in our day, and these tend to make our days brighter and richer. Nendo wanted to contribute and add a ‘!’ moment in people’s lives with their lovely chopsticks. These chopsticks are handmade by artisans, and Nendo also utilized a multi-axis CNC miller to build the unusual yet useful utensils.

The post Nendo’s redesigned chopsticks intertwine into each other to create a singular cohesive form first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Cutlery & Table Setting Accessories You Need To Class Up Your Next Dinner Party

Posted on by

Sharing a meal with someone is truly an enriching and bonding experience. And, you always feel the need to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment for your dinner partner – especially if you’re hosting the dinner! The correct set of cutlery and tableware is exceptionally important to create a wonderful ambiance for a meal. They have the potential to completely transform your dining experience, taking away attention even from the food! Designers have been getting extremely creative when it comes to cutlery. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and exciting tableware designs that are sure to be the highlight of your next dinner party!

1. Hida-Cedar Bowls

These beautiful wooden bowls are designed by Higashi Shunkei, and are made using cedarwood sourced from the forest in Takayama. The bowls are sustainable, eco-friendly, renewable, and also quite gorgeous. The lovely bowls would make a wonderful addition to your dinner table for your next dinner party!

Why is it noteworthy?

Named the Hida-Cedar bowls, these pretty bowls are spun, finished, and lacquered within Higashi Shunkei’s workshop, and display a stunning dark finish with light-colored bands reminiscent of a tiger’s strip skin.

What we like

  • The bowls perfectly merge aesthetics and sustainability
  • Each bowl features a unique and distinctive distorted pattern

What we dislike

  • There don’t seem to be a lot of options to choose from in terms of color and size

2. Iron Frying Plate

The Iron Frying Plate is truly an ingenious creation. It is an innovative kitchen design that not only serves your food but also functions as a frying pan with a removable handle. The Iron Frying Plate is a new and refreshing way to combine cooking and eating, creating an enriching dining experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The Iron Frying Plate is pretty unique since it merges both a frying pan and a serving plate. The kitchen tool is made from durable materials and is intended to be a functional and elegant solution to cooking and serving. It facilitates direct-from-the-pan serving and brings a whole new cooking method to the table.

What we like

  • Multifunctional and easy-to-use design
  • The wooden handle can be attached and detached

What we dislike

  • Heavier and tougher to handle than traditional frying pans, since it is made from iron.
  • Tough to store in small kitchens

3. Sustainable Cutlery Set

The Sustainable Cutlery Set is a sustainable and guilt-free cutlery set made using Glass Fiber-Reinforced Polymers or GFRP. The utensils are light and durable and presented in reusable and recyclable packaging. They’re made to last a long time, so you don’t have to worry about their usability and longevity.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery set has a lot of mechanical strength, so the knife and fork won’t fall apart when your steak is tougher than you like it. The various components of the set can be split in half, so they’re easy to carry around. The parts are also easy to screw and unscrew, while also maintaining a sturdy connection.

What we like

  • Sustainable cutlery set that is also built to last
  • Easy to carry around wherever you go

What we dislike

  • Handles might be too thin for large hands

4. Electric Chopsticks

Electric Chopsticks

Electric Chopsticks Design

This project by Kirin Holdings and the Miyashita Laboratory (Meiji University Dr. Homei Miyashita Laboratory of the Department of Frontier Media Science, School of Interdisciplinary Mathematical Sciences) includes a chopstick device that features an electrical stimulation waveform that works to adjust and customize the taste of low-sodium food.

Why is it noteworthy?

These innovative chopsticks are designed to make low-sodium food tasty, you can enjoy food with low-sodium content, allowing you to take better care of your health. These chopsticks are an excellent option for those who need to go on a low-sodium diet.

What we like

  • Creates a sense of saltiness in low-sodium food
  • Utilizes a weak electrical current in transmitting sodium ions from the food to the mouth

What we dislike

  • It’s still in the prototype stage, not an actual product yet

5. Oku Knife

Scottish artist and metal worker Kathleen Reilly designed the ‘Oku Knife’. Inspired by Japanese table settings, the Oku knife features a rather intriguing handle that is folded 90 degrees from its blade. The design was informed by chopstick resets.

Why is it noteworthy?

Oku features a unique folded shape that lets the handle be placed on a surface, with the blade sitting perpendicularly away from that particular surface. You can even rest the knife’s blade along the edge of a cutting board or plate.

What we like

  • The knife can be hooked onto the rim of a plate, creating intimacy between the two objects whilst improving cleanliness and maintaining stability

What we dislike

  • The design may seem pointless or unnecessary to some people

6. Mount Fuji Cutlery Rest

These Itadaki cutlery rests offer a lavish metal accessory that combines both simple forms and intricate engravings. These stunning rests function as luxurious tableware accents, while also serving as testaments to fine craftsmanship. The cutlery rest’s unique form is inspired by the country’s most iconic summit – Mt. Fuji.

Click Here to Buy Now: $219

Why is it noteworthy?

This Japanese-inspired cutlery rest isn’t just a flat block of metal, it slopes upwards toward the middle, creating a flat stump at the peak. This brings to mind the image of Mt.Fuji. The curves of the rest are ideal for holding forks, knives, chopsticks, or spoons.

What we like

  • The cutlery rests also represent Japan’s seasons that yield cherry blossoms
  • Designed to be an homage to Japanese craftsmanship

What we dislike

  • Can only accommodate two (2) utensils

7. Plate Grater

The Plate Grater is a revolutionary piece of tableware as it merges a plate’s functionality with a grater’s practicality. This innovative product lets you grate fresh ingredients directly onto your plate, adding a fresh and unique touch to every meal, as you can elevate ordinary dishes with an assortment of garnishes on the dining table.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59 $65 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

This unique tableware is distinctive because of its dual functionality, which lets it function as a stylish plate and an effective grater. Not only is the tool visually appealing, but it is also useful for grating fresh ingredients on the table, adding a fine gourmet touch to your meals.

What we like

  • Lets you grate fresh garnishes and ingredients directly onto dishes
  • Adds a gourmet touch to ordinary meals

What we dislike

  • Users who aren’t accustomed to the grater’s dual purpose may need a certain period of adjustment

8. Joseph Joseph Salad Bowl & Servers Set

Joseph Joseph and Element Studio collaborated to create this thoughtfully designed and minimal salad bowl and servers set. It’s an intelligent space-saving design since both products can be merged into one convenient product, seamlessly integrating functionality and form.

Why is it noteworthy?

It occupies a tiny amount of space on your dinner table or kitchen drawers, and it is also quite aesthetically pleasing. It adds a twist and exciting change to an ordinary salad bowl, and mundane servers set. It makes preparing and serving salads a fun affair.

What we like

  • Combines two products into one
  • Space-saving design

What we dislike

  • There seem to be no options in colors and sizes

9. Walnut Shell Tableware

When you mix walnut shells, pine resin, and Canauva Powder you get NOS, which creates new CMFs with a wide range of colors, patterns, and light transmissions, as it includes grinding large volumes of walnut shells into varied sizes. This is used to create utensils!

Why is it noteworthy?

Pine resin is utilized to bind the NOS, and once the shell of the walnut is removed from the kernel, it is thrown away as waste. This waste was transformed into plates by designer SooA Choi. The unique plates are eco-friendly and sustainable.

What we like

  • Eco-friendly design that makes for a great alternative to ceramics

What we dislike

  • Since the plates aren’t very visually appealing, they won’t make a pretty addition to your dining table

10. Veark Carving Knife

 

Designed by Veark, the CK20 Chef Knife is inspired by the manufacturing process of workshop tools. It is made using the drop-forge method, which converts the humble knife into an expert culinary tool. The knife is designed to give your mundane meal an exciting upgrade.

Why is it noteworthy?

Each Chef Knife is forged from a single piece of stainless steel and then hand-finished to provide the knife with a razor-sharp edge. The knife is reliable, well-balanced, and reliable with a sturdy wrench-inspired grip that lets your thumb naturally rest in its groove for maximum stability and maneuverability.

What we like

  • The knife is quit easy to maintain and clean
  • Versatile and innovative product that is excellent for slicing fruits, veggies, meats, and herb

What we dislike

  • Instead of a wooden handle, it has a steel one, which may not be comfy for everyone to use

The post Top 10 Cutlery & Table Setting Accessories You Need To Class Up Your Next Dinner Party first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nendo Designed The Perfect Obsessively Ergonomic Fork For Eating Cup Noodles

Posted on by

Cup noodles are a popular and quite common meal in Japan, although they are not limited to Japan anymore. They’ve become a quick and fun meal for people all over the world, and I’m no exception. I love a cup of hot and spicy noodles that are ready in a matter of five minutes – I mean how cool and convenient is that?! The right way to eat noodles from a cup is with the help of chopsticks and a spoon, that really is the best way to enjoy some noods! But of course, that is the tough way, and most people prefer forks. But, the typical fork that accompanies cup noodles is often un-ergonomic and really uncomfortable to eat with! The angle just doesn’t sit right, and it is difficult to scoop noodles and veggies with it. This is where Nissin teamed up with Nendo to create an obsessively ergonomic fork quite simply dubbed ‘The Fork’.

Designer: Nendo x Nissin

The Fork was designed after taking into consideration hours of user observation, to create a piece of cutlery that makes your noodle-eating experience smooth and hassle-free. The fork features a 128-degree arch at the neck which is perfect for scooping up noodles. The arch effectively limits the strain of lifting your elbow when scarfing down noodles. The left and right sections of the head have rounded edges, that perfectly fit against the walls of the cup, making it easier to lift up and consume the noodles.

The neck of the fork is marked with a shallow dip that is great for scooping up veggies and toppings, so you don’t miss out on them! There are little bumps between the various slots to ensure the noodles don’t slip off, while a small clip holds down the lid, as you wait for the hot water to prepare your instant noodles. What makes the Fork even more interesting and useful is that it comes in two variants – one for lefties, and one for righties! Nendo and Nissin really thought of everything. The left-hand version comes in a bold red color, while the right-hand version is available in white.

The post Nendo Designed The Perfect Obsessively Ergonomic Fork For Eating Cup Noodles first appeared on Yanko Design.

Zaha Hadid Design Brings The Concepts Of Architecture Into Tableware

Posted on by

In a striking display of creativity and functionality, Zaha Hadid Design (ZHD) introduces its latest tableware collections, including the ‘Cell,’ ‘Swirl,’ ‘Prime,’ ‘Hew,’ and ‘Pulse’ series. Crafted meticulously in glass and polished stainless steel, these pieces not only showcase the studio’s commitment to pushing design boundaries but also pay homage to the late architect Zaha Hadid’s distinctive aesthetic, blending organic forms inspired by cellular organisms with cutting-edge technology.

Designer: Zaha Hadid Design

Established in 2006 by the visionary architect Zaha Hadid, ZHD has emerged as a symbol of groundbreaking design across diverse categories. Design directors Woody Yao and Maha Kutay seamlessly carry forward Hadid’s unique design language, involving fluid and futuristic forms, and implementing a methodical approach that integrates the latest technological and material advancements into the studio’s creations. With a portfolio spanning four decades of research, ZHD remains at the forefront of innovation in lighting, furniture, fashion accessories, jewelry, interiors, exhibitions, public art, and set design.

Hew Drinkware

Born out of ZHD’s extensive exploration of erosion and carving concepts, the ‘Hew’ drinkware series is a tactile and visually engaging ensemble. Comprising a highball, tumbler, and carafe, each piece epitomizes the delicate balance between form and function. Meticulously crafted, these elements redefine traditional glassmaking, offering a unique and captivating experience. ‘Hew’ stands as a testament to ZHD’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship.

Cell Collection

The ‘Cell’ collection, fashioned from polished stainless steel, draws inspiration from the intricate beauty of cellular organisms. Evoking a transition from solidity to void through hexagonal and spherical perforations, the collection expands into serverware with the addition of bowls and a centerpiece. Introducing textural parametricism, bringing the essence of architecture into these pieces signifies a moment of transition, expressing the myriad states of change found in nature. Machined with precision by robotic lasers, these stainless-steel marvels not only make a visual statement but are also food-safe, ensuring functionality alongside their aesthetic appeal.

Pulse Series

The Pulse series challenges simplicity with pleated glass, showcasing the complex production process behind each piece. The polished, hand-blown glass reveals subtle variations, providing a glimpse into the meticulous craftsmanship involved. Vertical channels seamlessly integrated into the glassware offer a tactile experience, emphasizing both vertical and horizontal dynamism. The result is an immersive, sensory journey for users, where smooth and folded surfaces converge in harmonious design.

Swirl Bowl

The ‘Swirl’ small bowl, inspired by the motion of a swirling vortex, is a captivating addition to the series. Retaining the essence of its larger counterpart, this shallow bowl with a polished surface injects dynamism into any setting. Ideal for decorative purposes or serving food, the ‘Swirl’ small bowl exemplifies ZHD’s dedication to meticulous craftsmanship and the creation of timeless design.

Zaha Hadid Design’s latest tableware collections seamlessly blend artistry with functionality, showcasing the studio’s prowess in pushing design boundaries. The ‘Cell,’ ‘Pulse,’ ‘Hew,’ ‘Swirl,’ and ‘Prime’ series are a testament to ZHD’s ability to translate Zaha Hadid’s visionary design language into tangible, awe-inspiring pieces that redefine the art of tableware.

The post Zaha Hadid Design Brings The Concepts Of Architecture Into Tableware first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Sustainable + Elegant Tableware That Deserve A Spot On Your Dining Table

Posted on by

One of the most intimate and bonding experiences you can have is sharing a meal with someone. And, when it’s at your dinner table, the pressure to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment is higher than ever. A component that you can never truly ignore in a dining setup is tableware (the little things truly do count). Having excellent tableware is important. It has the potential to completely transform your dining experience, taking away attention even from the food! And if they happen to be sustainable then they’re a perfect match made in heaven. We’ve curated a collection of innovative and exciting tableware designs that are sure to be the highlight of your next dinner party!

1. Hida-Cedar Bowls

Designed by Higashi Shunkei, these stunning wood bowls were created using cedarwood sourced from the forest in Takayama. They’re sustainable, eco-friendly, and renewable, and not to mention drop-dead gorgeous! They would make a wonderful addition to your dinner table.

Why is it noteworthy?

Called, the Hida-Cedar bowls they are spun, finished, and lacquered within Higashi Shunkei’s workshop, and showcase a beautiful dark finish with light-colored bands, bringing to mind the image of a tiger’s striped skin.

What we like

  • Perfectly incorporates aesthetics and sustainability
  • Each bowl has a unique distorted pattern

What we dislike

  • There don’t seem to be a lot of options in color and size

2. Earth-Friendly Tumbler

PAPLUS is a new kind of thermoplastic resin that mixes biodegradable paper to add durability, heat resistance, and moldability which normal PLA lacks. This unique earth-friendly tumbler is made using this material

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

This earth-friendly tumbler uses an environment-friendly material to create a unique texture that is much like the surface of ceramic or wooden cups. Each sip from this tumbler brings forth a wonderful flavor to your tongue, while also creating an engaging sensation to your lips.

What we like

  • Uplifts the simple act of drinking water to a whole new sensory experience for your lips and tongue
  • Equipped with a heat resistance of 120°, allowing you to enjoy piping hot as well as ice-cold drinks

What we dislike

  • The natural color does become uneven and fade from use, which everyone may not like or prefer

3. Walnut Shell Tableware

If you mix walnut shells, pine resin, and Canauva Power you get NOS, which provides new CMFs with a wide range of colors, patterns, and light transmissions, since it involves grinding large volumes of walnut shells into different sizes.

Why is it noteworthy?

Pine resin is used to bind the NOS. Once the shell of the walnut is separated from the kernel, it is discarded as waste. This waste is being transformed into entire plates by designer SooA Choi! The plates are sustainable and eco-friendly!

What we like

  • A sustainable and excellent alternative to ceramics

What we dislike

  • Not the most aesthetically pleasing tableware, so won’t make a visually appealing addition to your dining table

4. Kreis Cup

Dubbed the Kreis Cup – this sustainable, durable, and eco-friendly coffee cup is designed to elevate and enhance your coffee-drinking experience. It is available in a cup and travel-mug style!

Why is it noteworthy?

The cup is heat-resistant and designed to keep your coffee hot for a longer time. It is a much better alternative to plastic mugs and breakable ceramic mugs, it is an excellent biodegradable option!

What we like

  • Made from spent coffee grounds
  • You can smell the faint unmistakable scent of coffee from it, making it a sensory experience for coffee lovers

What we dislike

  • There is currently no scope for personalization, which can be inconvenient for users who want their personal needs to be catered to

5. Wasteware Collection

Viennese designer Barbara Gollackner collaborated with Australian chef and restaurant owner Martin Kilga to create the ‘Wasteware’ collection, a range of tableware made using leftover food! The duo created a collection of bowls, plates, and cutlery using industrial and personal food waste.

Why is it noteworthy?

The tableware items were made using food waste such as pork skin and old bread, both acquired from personal and industrial waste. The waste was dried out and then blended into a smooth paste held together by mycelium.

What we like

  • Provides an effective solution to the issue of food wastage
  • Colorful and vibrant aesthetics, that will add a boost of color and life to your dining table

What we dislike

  • We’re unsure how durable the products are, and what is their lifespan

6. McDonald’s Reusable Tableware

French global design studio Elium Studio teamed up with McDonald’s France to build reusable tableware that can be used in the fast-food chain’s restaurants. The tableware collection is colorful and cute and made using Tritan – a plastic resin that is similar to glass and ceramic.

Why is it noteworthy?

The tableware was integrated with vents, graining, and striations to impart improved functionality and elevate the customer’s dining experience. The project has been in the works for almost two years, and it is truly commendable.

What we like

  • Retains McDonald’s original essence and design philosophy while being more eco-friendly

What we dislike

  • Plastic resin isn’t the most eco-friendly material out there, they could have picked a more sustainable alternative

7. Earth-Friendly Stacking Cup

You can now enjoy your favorite beverage in a stylish and minimal stacking cup that you know is saving the environment! It is made from eco-friendly synthetic materials and has a unique texture.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique texture of the cup is much like ceramic or wood, and it offers a sensory experience to your lips and mouth. It embodies minimal aesthetics and sustainable practice and produces a soul-enriching drinking experience that you’ll never forget.

What we like

  • Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin
  • The material biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide through natural microbial action

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

8. Smogware

The Smogware is an elegant minimal porcelain tableware collection that is really quite unique and innovative, and unlike any other tableware designs you may have seen.

Why is it noteworthy?

The designers harvested dust, notably air pollution from Rotterdam, Netherlands, and integrated it into utensils such as plates, cereal bowls, and coffee tables by harmoniously glazing the particles onto the items.

What we like

  • They harvest dust and incorporate it into the tableware, without it looking like dust

What we dislike

  • The backstory of the tableware may make one lose their appetite

9. Calzone

Calzone is a reusable folding plate, inspired by the Italian crescent-shaped turnovers that are a crowd favorite. The colorful and quirky product is perfect for picnics and hikes, because not only can it store food, but it also functions as a plate, making it a versatile multifunctional product.

Why is it noteworthy?

When folded, and closed in half, Calzone functions as a nifty little container, but when opened, it takes on a flat form and can be used as tableware to serve food. It’s the perfect replacement for one-time-use zipper bags and plates! Created from medical-grade silicone, Calzone is safe enough to be placed in the refrigerator, freezer, microwave, and oven.

What we like

  • Multifunctional product that serves as a plate and food container

What we dislike

10. Grass-Fed Bone China

Ceramist Gregg F Moore collaborated with Dan Barber, the chef and co-owner of Blue Hill restaurant to create a line of tableware that is essentially grass-fed bone china. This is china or ceramic created from the bones of grass-fed cows and the cows that Barber raises on his farms.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Blue Hill cows consume grass, instead of following the typical grain-based farm diet. Since they devour grass, they move and roam freely in search of greener pastures. This ensures that their bones are much stronger as compared to the cows found on other conventional farms, leading to stronger, creamier, and more durable ceramics.

What we like

  • The ceramics are stronger and more durable compared to the regular ones

What we dislike

  • Highly priced as compared to other chinas
  • Won’t be appealing to vegans and vegetarians

The post Top 10 Sustainable + Elegant Tableware That Deserve A Spot On Your Dining Table first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Unique & Functional Tableware To Elevate Your Christmas Dinner Party This Year

Posted on by

One of the most intimate and bonding experiences you can have is sharing a meal with someone. And, when it’s at your own dinner table, the pressure to create an enjoyable and comfortable environment is higher than ever – and especially if it’s a Christmas dinner. A component that you can never truly ignore in a dining setup is tableware (the little things truly do count). Having excellent tableware is really important. It has the potential to completely transform your dining experience, taking away attention even from the food! Designers have been getting extremely creative when it comes to cutlery. Hence, we’ve curated a collection of innovative and exciting tableware designs that are sure to be the highlight of your Christmas dinner party this year!

1. TriveTiles

Peleg Design’s TriveTiles is the perfect mix of form, function, and art. They aren’t simply decorative trivets for your table, they’re artistic trivets that function as elaborate puzzle pieces!

Why is it noteworthy?

Pull them apart and one single trivet turns into three separate trivets that you can use to keep multiple hot dishes on your table. Or put the trivets back together and you’ve got a single gorgeous heat-resistant Moroccan artistic tile that complements your decorative ceramicware beautifully.

What we like

  • Adds a pop of vibrant color to your dinner table
  • Unique multi-purpose design

What we dislike

  • Comes in one uniform size, so could be difficult to accommodate dishes of various sizes

2. Iron Frying Plate

Called the Iron Frying Plate, this innovative kitchen design can be used to serve your food or a frying pan with a removable handle. It is a refreshing new way to combine cooking and eating!

Click Here to Buy Now: $62 $69 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes the Iron Frying Plate super cool is that it combines both a frying pan and a serving plate. It is built using durable materials and offers a functional and sophisticated solution to cooking and serving. It introduces a novel and ingenious cooking method, that supports direct-from-the-pan serving, which could allow aspiring chefs to experiment with different cooking techniques and presentation styles.

What we like

  • The wooden handle can be attached and detached as and when needed

What we dislike

  • The frying plate is made from iron, which makes it heavier than traditional frying pans, which can be tough to handle and store in small kitchens

3. Stag Salt & Pepper Shakers

Nothing says Christmas like a couple of ornamental-looking stags! And, this stag salt and pepper set will make for a wonderful addition to your dinner table. Designed by Culinary Concepts, these lovely salt and pepper shakers will add a touch of playful whimsy to your dining table.

Why is it noteworthy?

The stags feature beautiful detailing and a stunning silver finish, allowing them to function as charming feature pieces rather than simple tabletop necessities.

What we like

  • Add some Christmas-themed cheer to your dinner table
  • Functional + decorative products

What we dislike

  • Although they’re quite charming, their ergonomics don’t seem super comfortable to use

4. Hesslebach Dutch Oven

Made from a proprietary PuraSteel material and coated with PuraCotta, the Hesslebach Dutch Oven offers top-notch durability and performance, but without the dangers of toxins and poisons that are usually found in heavy metals such as iron, as well as any by-products from hard anodization.

Why is it noteworthy?

Even the lid doesn’t have a screw for the handle, ensuring that no rust will ever fall on your delicious dish. With this focus on safety, you can cook to your heart’s content, knowing that you and your loved ones will be eating scrumptious and clean meals every time.

What we like

  • Has exceptional heat retention
  • Features unparalleled heat distribution makes sure that no part is undercooked or overcooked

What we dislike

  • Dutch ovens tend to be quite heavy which becomes an issue while cleaning them

5. Plate Grater

A revolutionary tableware piece that elegantly combines a plate’s functionality with a grater’s practicality. Perfect for your Christmas dinner party, this design allows guests to grate fresh ingredients directly onto their plates, adding a fresh and personal touch to every meal.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59 $65 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 24 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

This tableware piece stands out for its dual functionality, serving both as a stylish plate and an efficient grater. Its design is not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical for grating fresh ingredients right at the table, adding a gourmet touch to your meals.

What we like

  • Minimalist design that complements any festive table settings
  • Practicality for grating fresh garnishes directly onto dishes
  • Enhances the dining experience by adding a gourmet touch

What we dislike

  • Require a period of adjustment for guests not used to its dual-purpose

6. Veark Carving Knife

The CK20 Chef Knife from Veark is inspired by how workshop tools are made. It is built using the drop-forge method and transforms the humble knife into an expert culinary tool. It is designed to give your holiday meal the upgrade it deserves – all you need to do is pull out this stunning carving set.

Why is it noteworthy?

Each knife is forged from a single piece of stainless steel, before being hand-finished to give the knife its razor-sharp edge. The CK20 is a robust, reliable, and rather well-balanced knife with a wrench-inspired grip that naturally has your thumb resting in its groove for maximum stability and maneuverability.

What we like

  • Easy to maintain and clean
  • Versatile product that is ideal for slicing fruits, veggies, meats, and herb

What we dislike

  • It has a steel handle and not a wooden one, which may not be comfortable to use for everyone

7. Bloom

Tired of presenting your napkins in typical swans or boring old presentations? Well, this is where Peleg Design has come up with an elegant and unique solution. Try out the Bloom napkin holders, and set up a blooming dinner table for your guests.

Why is it noteworthy?

All you need to do is grab any napkin, fold it in half, and give the Bloom a swift twist, and it will instantly transform your napkin into its pretty petal. It gives your dining table a sophisticated yet functional touch.

What we like

  • Gives a twist to the typical old napkin holders

What we dislike

  • Not well-suited for those who like simple and subtle table decor

8. Kana’s Bakeware

Kana’s Milo baking accessories transform the idea of bakeware into tableware, allowing them a special place on your Christmas dinner table. They’re thoughtfully designed and can be nested into each other when being stored. They’re also stunning to look at when placed on the table, owing to their gently scalloped handles and radially brushed metal finishes.

Why is it noteworthy?

Each baking pan and sheet is crafted from tri-ply clad stainless steel, giving it unmatched durability and heat resistance of up to 1000°F. There’s an aluminum core sandwiched between the two sheets of stainless steel, ensuring optimal heat distribution, while the outer layers of 304-grade stainless steel are non-toxic, BBQ-friendly, and dishwasher-safe

What we like

  • They are designed to last a decade
  • Nontoxic, BBQ-friendly, and dishwasher-safe

What we dislike

  • They will occupy a substantial amount of real estate on your dining table

9. Ceramic Cup

This finely crafted and minimalist-looking mug is a meeting of earth and wood in a unique symphony of texture designed to be a lovely treat to your sensitive lips as well as your fingers!

Click Here to Buy Now: $60

Why is it noteworthy?

When we’re sipping a drink, our lips come into contact with the surface of a glass or mug, and this impression sets the mood for the entire experience. This beautiful mug intends to create that kind of engagement in the form of a design with intriguing contrasts.

What we like

  • Made of quality Japanese ceramic

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics may be considered a bit too simple
  • You cannot place it in the microwave

10. L’Oeil de KO Cutlery

Studio KO’s fascination and love for objects and craft led them to create L’Oeil de KO – a curated platform that showcases the work of artisans. And the brand launched a series of cutlery sets designed by Lisbon metalsmith Sebastião Lobo.

Why is it noteworthy?

The cutlery set features intriguing and almost impossible-looking forms and is handcrafted from brass. They have wiggly handles that support an ergonomic form and an enchanting artistic vision.

What we like

  • Have an intriguing surrealist aesthetic

What we dislike

  • The cutlery seems more decorative than functional

The post Top 10 Unique & Functional Tableware To Elevate Your Christmas Dinner Party This Year first appeared on Yanko Design.

These earth-friendly sustainable cups add joy to every drink without harming the planet

Posted on by

Even with all the advice to drink plenty of water each day, few people actually pay attention to what they drink. Even fewer, unfortunately, pay attention to what they’re drinking from. Glassware is common in some homes and fine dining, but you’re more likely to see plastic vessels everywhere else. This synthetic material does have its advantages, especially when it comes to durability, but its harmful effects on the environment have already piled up. Fortunately, you can have your personal cup and drink from it, too, thanks to the fusion of innovative, earth-friendly materials and simple yet elegant design, giving birth to this sustainable tumbler that brings a profound experience to every sip.

Designer: PAPLUS

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.50 $25 (10% off at checkout).

There are many plant-derived synthetic resins available today, but the most popular among them is PLA or polylactic acid, a thermoplastic derived from the lactic acid of fermented corn starch and sugar cane juice, among other natural sources. PAPLUS is a new type of thermoplastic resin that mixes biodegradable paper to add the heat resistance, durability, and moldability that normal PLA lacks. And from this innovative material, this earth-friendly tumbler is born.

Unlike the artificial smoothness of plastic, the PAPLUS Tumbler’s use of this environment-friendly material creates a unique texture that can be compared to ceramic or wooden cups. Each sip brings not only a wonderful flavor to your tongue but also an engaging sensation to your lips, elevating the act of drinking to a new level of sensory experience. Thanks to the heat resistance of 120°C, you can enjoy that moment whether your favorite drink is piping-hot cocoa or ice-cold barley tea.

This plastic-free drinking device doesn’t just mimic the sensation of elegant cups, it even looks the part as well. Using black pigments dissolved in harmless urethane, the tumbler achieves a matte black coating on the outside that looks naturally glossy without using blasting methods. The inside retains the PAPLUS’ natural brownish color and texture to yield a distinctive two-tone design. Over time, the color does become uneven and fade from use, revealing the individuality of the owner through the unique wear patterns that set it apart from each and every tumbler.

This tumbler’s commitment to protecting the environment extends to its packaging, made from 100% recycled paper from old newspapers and magazines. And, when it finally reaches the end of its service, the biodegradable tumbler can be treated as burnable waste or, better yet, recycled for a different purpose. With this elegant earth-friendly tumbler, each drink becomes not only a toast to memories but also a toast to the planet’s longer life.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.50 $25 (10% off at checkout).

The post These earth-friendly sustainable cups add joy to every drink without harming the planet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Tesla’s limited edition CyberBeer looks like the Cybertruck condensed in a can

Posted on by

Excitement around the Tesla Cybertruck is amping up to giga proportions as rumors abound about the weirdly-shaped vehicle, which is seemingly going into full volume production in a matter of months. Further stoking the proverbial bonfire, news sources reported spotting a fleet of Tesla Cybertrucks at Gigafactory Texas.

The Cybertruck hype cycle is now in full gear. And yet it’s apparently the perfect moment for the Cybertruck maker to announce an entirely different flavor of cyber. Late last week, Tesla unveiled its CyberBeer + CyberStein Limited Edition Set, and – yes, it’s a total swing out of left field – but when you’re hungry for anything Cybertruck-related, relatively speaking, a new $150 collector’s item from Tesla is small fries. Especially when it potentially tastes great and quenches the thirst for good beer in addition to the thirst for a new electric vehicle shaped like Porygon.

Designer: Tesla

Admittedly, the new CyberBeer + CyberStein Limited Edition set – which contains two bottles of CyberBeer and two CyberSteins to pour it in – looks like it’s straight out of Cyberpunk 2077 though it’s deliberately meant to mimic the style of the Cybertruck. Given the CyberBeer bottle’s black-and-white gloss color scheme, graffiti-style “CyberBeer” lettering and angled shape, it looks like it’d fit right in at a bar in Night City served next to a bottle of Pingo Pálido. In what appears to be a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor, the back of the beer bottle features the words “haha cheers” in a far more standard-looking typeface.

Tesla describes the CyberBeer beverage itself as “a Helles Lager with European Noble Hops Saaz and Hallertau Mittlefruh. Accentuated by notes of herb and spice and more notable aromas of tea and citrus.” The included CyberStein looks a bit more like the actual Cybertruck model, thanks to its matte black appearance that actually features a miniature Tesla logo near the top.

If you want to buy one of these for yourself, you’re out of luck; the limited edition set sold out almost immediately when it went up. It could come back in another wave, but at this point, you may be holding out just as long as you would for a new Cybertruck.

The post Tesla’s limited edition CyberBeer looks like the Cybertruck condensed in a can first appeared on Yanko Design.