Mleiha Bowl: A Unique Tray Inspired by the Desert Landscape

A Sculptural and Expressive Homeware Design by By Spring

The Mleiha Bowl, designed by By Spring, is a unique and innovative tray inspired by the desert landscape of Mleiha in the United Arab Emirates. This hand-made wooden tray replicates the topography of the sand dunes, creating concavities to hold dates and nuts, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen or dining table.

The Mleiha Bowl stands out from other trays with its sculptural and expressive design. Made from meranti wood, this 100% hand-made object is not only visually appealing but also functional. The tray touches the table in only three points of contact, giving it a light and airy feel. The choice of meranti wood enhances the texture of the tray, reinforcing the idea of topography as a containing element.

The realization of the Mleiha Bowl involves a meticulous process. Each tray is crafted by hand, grinding and sanding a single piece of scrap wood. The grain and texture of the wood are preserved and enhanced using natural mineral oil and a final coat of natural wax. The result is a beautifully finished tray that showcases the natural beauty of the wood.

With dimensions of 45 x 45 x 8 cm, the Mleiha Bowl is not only visually striking but also highly functional. Its unique design allows for easy carrying and handling, making it a versatile piece for any occasion. The tray's ergonomic shape and smooth finish make it a pleasure to use.

The Mleiha Bowl is more than just a functional object; it is a sensory experience. The natural materials used in its design make it highly tactile, allowing users to experience the scent and texture of the tray through its sensual topography. It is a piece that engages all the senses and adds a touch of elegance to any dining experience.

By Spring, the design team behind the Mleiha Bowl, drew inspiration from the desert landscape of Mleiha and the ancient country of Magan. The tray's shapes and forms are reminiscent of the sand dunes, creating a connection between the design and its surroundings. The tray's unique design challenges the traditional notion of a tray, transforming it into a work of art.

The Mleiha Bowl has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware, and Cookware Design category in 2019. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit strong technical and creative skills, contributing to quality of life improvements. The Mleiha Bowl is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of By Spring.

The Mleiha Bowl is not just a tray; it is a piece of art that brings the beauty of the desert landscape into your home. Its unique design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail make it a must-have for any design enthusiast.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Juan Roldan by Spring
Image Credits: Juan Roldán
Project Team Members: Juan Roldán
Project Name: Mleiha
Project Client: Juan Roldan by Spring


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