Matcha Set
A compact tea set for enjoying a timeless ritual in new spaces.
Project intent
Design and prototype a beverage set for specific user group. This project challenged students to consider the challenges users experience when enjoying their favorite beverages.
Timeline
6 weeks, 08.2024-09.2024
Skills used
Concept Ideation
CAD Modeling
Rapid Prototyping
Product rendering
Increase in western popularity
Matcha is relatively new in the United States but its popularity has been rising. In the U.S. matcha is often consumed in trendy cafes, whereas in Asia this drink is served everywhere from gas stations to ceremonial tea houses.
The annual growth rate of matcha in the U.S.
10.2%
$88.7m
The estimated value of the U.S. matcha market.
A new context
As the graph shows outdoor activity has skyrocketed in recent years. As people venture out more they are taking their routines with them. There are numerous coffee products for camping or picnicking but no such solution for matcha drinkers.
A need met
This tea set collapses down into just two pieces to allow users to enjoy matcha on the go.
Cork as Connection
When creating a mechanism for the set to fit together, I knew I couldn't use threads as it would create a negative tactile experience. However, I found the cork connection used by woodwind instruments like clarinets and saxophones. I decided to use a similar connector for my cups.
The Set
This tea set includes two cups, a chasen (matcha whisk) and a chashaku (matcha spoon). A pot would be needed for boiling its water.
Materiality
Frosted Glass
Hard plastic
Bamboo
Cork connector
Hard maple
Frosted Glass