The inspiration for the Melting Stone came from the ancient oriental tradition of serving alcoholic beverages warm. This practice is believed to enhance the flavor of the wine and provide a warming effect. The Belle Team wanted to introduce this ancient wine-drinking culture to the younger generation and the western community.
What sets the Melting Stone apart is its unique packaging. The packaging is designed to dissolve when hot water is poured over it, revealing a "marble stone" pattern that adheres to the wine bottle. This creates a custom-made product and an interactive experience for the consumer. The packaging is made from a special type of plastic that melts at 60 degrees Celsius and solidifies instantly at room temperature.
The Melting Stone was designed by a team of four: Wong Soon Wey, Ke Yi Ting, Lei Ka Hei, and Voon Chia Lee. The project began in June 2016 and was completed in May 2017 in Taiwan. It was then exhibited at the Taipei World Trade Center Exhibition Hall 1.
The design process was not without its challenges. The team had to figure out how to manipulate the material to the desired thickness, shape, and texture without causing it to blister. They also had to ensure that the top part of the packaging was designed to hold the right amount of hot water to melt the packaging.
Despite these challenges, the team was able to create a product that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The Melting Stone is a testament to the team's creativity and innovation, combining the traditional with the modern in a way that is both interesting and unique.
The Melting Stone is a perfect example of how design can be used to enhance the consumer experience. It is not just a packaging design, but a way to engage the consumer and create a memorable experience. The Belle Team has truly redefined the concept of packaging with their innovative design.
Project Designers: Wong Soon Wey
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Ke Yi Ting and Lei Ka Hei, Melting Stone, 2017.
Optional Image #1: Photographer Ke Yi Ting and Wong Soon Wey, Junmai-Shu_Front, 2017.
Optional Image #2: Photographer Ke Yi Ting and Wong Soon Wey, Junmai-Shu_Bottom, 2017.
Optional Image #3: Photographer Ke Yi Ting and Wong Soon Wey, Junmai-Shu_Top, 2017.
Optional Image #4: Photographer Ke Yi Ting and Wong Soon Wey, Junmai-Shu, 2017.
Project Team Members: Wong Soon Wey
Ke Yi Ting
Lei Ka Hei
Voon Chia Lee
Project Name: Stonage
Project Client: Wong Soon Wey