Cork Trays: Versatile Trays with a Sustainable Twist

Redesigning Traditional Trays with Saif Faisal

Made entirely of cork, these trays boast excellent anti-bacterial and moisture-proof properties. Saif Faisal's design utilizes two variants of cork to create minimal, soft, and essential objects. The form of the trays explores the material's properties and structure, resulting in a visually pleasing and functional product.

The trays come in three variations: Soft-Square, Circular, and Loop. Each tray can be used as a stationary holder, fruit tray, or jewelry tray, showcasing their versatility. The design also incorporates a rubberized strap for hanging the trays on the wall, providing strength and flexibility.

The realization of these trays is a unique process that showcases the craftsmanship involved. Thin layers of cork, measuring 2.5mm, are glued together to form the structure. No coating or polish is required, allowing the natural beauty of the cork to shine through. The tactile nature and lightweight of the material add to the overall appreciation of the design.

As these trays are made from 100% natural materials, they are sustainable, ecological, and maintenance-free. Cork's anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties make the trays long-lasting and improve with usage over time.

The design project for these cork trays started in early 2017 and was completed by mid-2017. Saif Faisal's research focused on the application of cork in a contemporary context, combining traditional objects and functions with a modern twist.

One of the main challenges faced during the design process was handling the cork material in a flexible and versatile context. While cork is typically milled or turned, Saif Faisal employed a combination of hand-craft and technology, such as laser-cutting, to bring together the human touch and machine precision.

These cork trays have received recognition for their outstanding design. They were awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2018. This accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place.

With their sustainable materials, functional design, and contemporary aesthetics, Saif Faisal's cork trays are a testament to the possibilities of merging tradition and innovation in the world of design.