Eleware: A Revolution in Tableware Design

Linlin Li's Innovative Approach to Modernizing Traditional Chinese Dining Etiquette

Li's inspiration for Eleware stemmed from observing the dynamic shifts in traditional Chinese dining etiquette due to globalization. As cultural norms evolve, so too should the tools we use in our daily lives. This philosophy is beautifully embodied in Eleware's design, which seamlessly blends form and function to enhance the dining experience.

The uniqueness of Eleware lies in its innovative shapes, each serving a specific purpose. The heightened plate design conceals the diner's face and bones when spitting out bones, a common practice in Chinese dining culture. The food plate, with its inclined bottom, filters out excess oil from the food, promoting healthier eating habits. The bowl, mirroring the curve of teacups, allows diners to enjoy their soup as if they were sipping tea.

Eleware was brought to life through the traditional technique of clay throwing. The specifications of the pieces are 140*130*40mm, 140*130*120mm, and 110*100*55mm, respectively. The design process, which started in April 2017 and concluded in August 2018, was carried out entirely in China.

Li's design process was meticulous and research-intensive. It involved questionnaires, participant experiments, fly-on-the-wall observations, interviews, prototyping, photo studies, and design ethnography. The most challenging aspect was evaluating feedback from diverse users and incorporating the most valuable suggestions into the final design.

Eleware's innovative design and cultural significance have not gone unnoticed. It was awarded Silver in the A' Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design Award in 2021. This prestigious award is given to designs that showcase outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill, and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

In conclusion, Eleware is a testament to Linlin Li's creativity and understanding of the evolving cultural landscape. By reimagining tableware design, Li has successfully made the dining process more elegant and less embarrassing, reflecting the modernization of traditional Chinese dining etiquette.