In a form development course during my semester abroad in Wuppertal, Germany, we were tasked with designing a small kitchen appliance with its form language derived from a visual understanding of abstract characteristics. My resulting form reflects health and long-lasting design.
I began by sketching basic geometric forms then modified them to create a new form that felt familiar but distinct. Next I translated this to relate to an electric water kettle by integrating a spout, handle, lid, and base. Lastly, I focused on materiality, using layering to create depth and hierarchy. The main body has soft curves that create a wide, low waist, making it feel grounded. The sudden taper to a small base visually lifts the kettle, giving it also the appearance of lightness. The soft overall form is contrasted with varying chamfers, creating visual interest on a simple but distinct silhouette.
The aluminum kettle body is enveloped by an outer ceramic layer which maintains the internal temperature and protects the user from the hot metal surface. The cutaway reveals a glass window to measure the water level. The top of the handle features a touch-sensitive temperature control.
jialuni.com
