Product and Furniture Design

 

Carafe

Designed for London on Tap, unnexpectedly inspired from an old, faceted, glass salt shaker found in a fish an chip shop in North London. Image ©Holly Cocker

I ordered from the proud, thin man with grey hair and well proportioned feet. Within a few minutes a chalky, brown paper bag was plonked in front of me. I looked at the man and before I could ask he nodded towards the salt and vinegar at the end of the counter nearest the door. Casually and liberally, I shook salt from a small, tapering, faceted glass container that was probably as old as the man that served me and then, walked out.

The carafe reflects the architectural nature of the centre of London, famous for its, juxtaposition of old and new, high rise and low rise and brings it onto the table. Looking at glass design, antique to present day, the faceted shape constantly re-appears as detailing or as the main feature. It is a shape that has never become old fashioned or outdated. The very slight curve of the tall profile gives modern elegance and poise to the carafe. It stands proudly, overlooking other table top objects, kaleidoscopically refracting it’s surroundings in all its faces.