I tried to enrich the experience of using a pepper grinder by appealing to my chosen markets values. Firstly, on a visceral level, it's form is obviously derived from nature -- a weather worn pebble. It is pretty looking and nice to touch. Plus, I reckon there's a nice connection between the rock-ness of it and the action of crushing something.
However, Originally the item was not meant to suggest a rock. It was gonna be some kind of long levered device which split down the middle to accentuate the action of breaking something. The rock form won out because it was more ergonomic and pretty.
On a more reflective level my object is reminiscent of the times when people used stone tools for food preparation. Perhaps an age when meal times were more important social gatherings. Or simply when human life was not so removed from nature.
I had some thoughts about detailing the rock like a touch of metal or wood, or a little embossed Chinese character. But in the end I didn't trust my ability so I left it simple.
I really like your design. At first look, it looks like a rock, and for me, it's very appealing because it's kind of unique and nature like. The smooth texture suggests more of a new rock, rather than a weather-worn rock like you said. And what's even more interesting is, when you first look at the product, you feel like touching it, and the white thing makes you want to press it. I think your connection of rock and crushing is very thoughtful. good good
ReplyDeleteThis is a beautiful concept due to the incorporation of human instinct and learn behaviours. Aesthetically this product is very intriguing while its function is surprising. The form gives clues as to how to hold and use the product by following the contours of a persons hand.
ReplyDeleteThis is a really strong design but I feel that your rationale has let your presentation down. Your use of colloquial and abbreviated language really did not compliment the sophistication of your design. Overall this was one of my favourite products of the day, well done!!