Client:
Breville
Year:
2023
Type:
Product
About the project
A kettle designed to be seen, felt, and enjoyed
The Afternoon Kettle is a reimagining of one of the most familiar kitchen appliances, designed to turn a routine task into a calming ritual. Guided by user insights and inspired by the warm, tranquil atmosphere of late afternoon, this project blends soft, approachable forms with thoughtful digital integration. The design prioritises countertop presence, tactile comfort, and a seamless user experience, both physically and through a companion app. The result is a kettle that not only performs its function but also enhances the aesthetic and emotional quality of the home.
the why
This project began with a question: what is the true ritual of boiling water, and what does it mean to those who perform it? Research into users and industry trends revealed a lack of emotional connection in the market, most kettles fail to respond to the quiet moments that surround the act. Boiling water is more than function; it’s a pause, a preparation, a connection. The goal was to design a kettle that integrates effortlessly into its surroundings, yet stands proudly on the counter, a piece the user is delighted to keep in view. It delivers practical performance while embodying the quiet emotional value of the ritual itself.
Experimentation
Exploring Forms, Materials, and Ways of Use
I began with rapid sketches to explore silhouette possibilities, followed by foam and CAD block models to evaluate proportions and ergonomics. Material swatches and inspiration boards guided a warm, muted palette. Interaction studies, including handle positioning, lid mechanisms, and digital controls, helped refine how users would experience the kettle physically and through a connected app but through headless system that allows the kettle to still function without the app creating a notion of "Simple first, smart second".
testing & feedback
Balancing Aesthetics, Comfort, and Functionality
Iterative testing led to a refined handle design and optimised spout geometry for comfortable pouring. CAD development ensured precise fit between components, while exploded views clarified assembly and manufacturing considerations. Colour options were fine-tuned to evoke specific times of day, enhancing the emotional connection between product and user.
final design
A Calming Ritual for everyday
The final design pairs a timeless physical form with a subtle digital layer, allowing users to control and monitor their kettle via a companion app. Hero renders, lifestyle photography, and outdoor shots showcase the kettle in different contexts, reflecting its role as both a practical appliance and a visual accent in the home. Soft, neutral finishes and refined detailing invite daily use while creating moments of calm in the kitchen.
