NUi Superleggera: A Minimalist Hardwood Serving Tray

Streamlined Design for Optimal Functionality and Aesthetics

This ultra-light, minimalist, hardwood serving tray evolved via a reductionist approach to streamline each underlying part to its essence. In turn, the functional imperatives focused on optimal structural integrity and weight transfer. The NUi Superleggera tray, designed by Jaime Rosales, stands out with its unique features and innovative design.

By virtue of ergonomics, the cantilever handles confer an intuitive and seamless user experience, while the rigidity of the framework boosts carrying capacity. The base design has a purpose-driven longitudinal arch, so that it rests on just 4 contact points, allowing it to be comfortably placed on the lap and avoid surface humidity.

The conceptual underpinnings of the design were defined on the basis of explicit functional and aesthetic criteria. The entire design was iterated via 3D software and then extensively prototyped to ensure a seamless assembly process. Natural pigments were formulated to enhance the wood's unique figure and iridescence, resulting in a visually stunning tray.

The NUi Superleggera tray measures 360 mm x 615 mm x 40 mm and weighs only 880 grams. It is made from Carapa guianensis, also known as Andiroba, a tropical hardwood known for its strength and durability. The wood is finished with polyurethane and natural pigments to enhance its beauty.

This innovative serving tray offers unparalleled usability and comfort. The weight profile was reduced by half through 3D optimization and iterative prototyping, allowing users to carry more with less effort. Careful attention was given to how the load was distributed, increasing the overall carrying capacity. Ergonomics informed every aspect of the design, particularly the cantilever handles, making the user experience enjoyable and safe.

The NUi Superleggera tray was developed at a design studio on the outskirts of Managua, Nicaragua. The design concept was developed over the course of two weeks, and the project was officially completed on July 24th, 2017.

Through qualitative surveys and user interviews, the design team identified pain points and unmet needs related to design, quality, and materials. The insights gathered from users informed the handle design and the curved tray bottom, addressing the drawbacks of flat bottom designs and ensuring a comfortable user experience.

The NUi Superleggera tray presented several challenges, including striking a balance between weight reduction and structural integrity. Each design feature had to be assessed for its impact on the overall weight profile. Aesthetically, the challenge was to seamlessly integrate design subtleties into a flowing silhouette, creating a simple yet elegant symmetry.

The NUi Superleggera tray, with its minimalist design and functional features, has been recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design category in 2018. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements.

With its unique properties and attention to detail, the NUi Superleggera tray is a testament to the power of design to transform even the most mundane objects into objects of beauty and functionality.