Tableware

Ceramics Craft

Project Overview

This tableware is designed for "Het Rijks museum" in Amsterdam and is inspired by the iconic cross vaults defining this historical building. Not only are these cross vaults pleasing to the eye, but the geometric composition also plays a crucial role in the structural support of the building.

By using this same geometric setup to keep the perfectly round coffee cup from tipping over, this tableware is a unique cross-over between modern design and the historical engineering

Apart from keeping the cup standing upright, the cross shape is also used to add functionality to the little plate. It has a raised pad with a negative cross space in which the cup can be secured. The cross joint will keep the cup from sliding off, making it easier for the waiter to serve the guests of the restaurant.

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Process

Craftsmanship

Aug 2014 — Jan 2015

After some rounds of hand-sketched ideation, the chosen concepts were 3D modeled in SolidWorks, so prototypes could be 3D printed, sanded down, and smoothed out their surface.
Negative molds were created from plaster by engulfing the 3D prints. After the molds were dry, liquid ceramic clay was poured into the mold, which absorbed the liquid in the clay and then emptied, resulting in a relatively thin-walled hollow clay replica of the 3D print. All that was left was to glaze and bake the clay casting to create a finished handmade ceramics masterpiece.