Gone are the days when kitchen tools and appliances were simply seen as utilitarian objects. With a greater awareness of product design, consumers have become more meticulous in picking products that do more than just serve their advertised functions. Aesthetics and tactile experiences have also become important buying considerations, especially for those who consider the kitchen as their little castle. Even something like a coffee maker can have a profound impact on the ambiance of a space, which is why this particular concept design takes inspiration from one of the most impactful brands in the automotive market.
Designer: V R Viru, Hari Krishna
When it comes to cars, Porsche is a name that is immediately associated with elegance, luxury, and performance. Its sports cars are known not just for their speed but for their regal presence on any type of road. Characterized by smooth curves and aerodynamic forms, Porsche’s design language has been the inspiration for designers across various industries outside of vehicles.
nair is a coffee machine concept that is a result of such inspiration. Most coffee maker designs gravitate toward two extremes. On the one hand, you have the typical black and silver kitchen appliance that dominates even the luxury market. On the other hand, you have vibrant and colorful models that inspire playfulness and curiosity. Somewhere in the middle is nair, embracing a spirit of dynamism and style that is more commonly seen in Porsche cars than kitchen tools.
There are very few straight lines in nair’s design, for example, preferring the smooth and gentle curves that give Porsche sports cars their aerodynamic properties. The choice of materials isn’t determined by durability alone but also by the texture and aesthetic that adds to the enjoyment of the product even when not in use. Also adhering to the brand’s minimalist design language, there is no wasted space or extraneous detail. From its handle to its interface, every part is born from meticulous attention to detail that balances functionality and form.
The result is a coffee machine that goes beyond just making coffee. It transforms the experience into something that is both visual and tactile, adding value to the object without burdening it with unnecessary features. The design concept might not make your coffee taste better, but it elevates the whole brewing experience and turns it into something more like an art form.