Uni: The Interactive Salt and Pepper Shaker

Transforming Ordinary into Extraordinary

In the world of kitchen accessories, salt and pepper shakers are often overlooked. However, designer Yingjie Chen saw an opportunity to transform these everyday objects into something extraordinary. With Uni, Chen challenges the norm by creating an interactive and playful design that brings joy to the dining experience.

What sets Uni apart from other shakers on the market is its ability to connect and unify the salt and pepper compartments into a single, ergonomic sphere. The spherical design allows Uni to fit comfortably in one hand, making it easy to use and store. When resting on the table, the pepper shaker snugly fits into the salt shaker, creating a visually pleasing and compact form.

Uni is not just visually appealing; it also offers a seamless user experience. To use Uni, simply remove the pepper shaker from its interlocked position within the salt shaker. Both lids can be easily slid horizontally and lifted up to fill the shakers with the desired seasoning. Tilt Uni to apply the seasoning to your food, or have fun using both shakers simultaneously with one in each hand. After use, interlock the shakers back together before placing them on the table.

Chen utilized a fast-growing additive manufacturing process, specifically 3D printing with PLA plastic, to prototype Uni. This allowed for quick and easy iterations to refine the design. For production, metal and ceramic materials are ideal.

Uni's unique design and interactive features have garnered recognition in the design community. In 2018, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that exhibit creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life.

Uni is not just a salt and pepper shaker; it is an invitation to experience and interact with a small object that brings joy to the dining table. With Uni, Yingjie Chen has successfully transformed an ordinary kitchen accessory into a conversation starter and a source of delight.