Ziyanda Kettle

by Rafael Maia @rafaelmaia

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I was invited to create from scratch the complete industrial design project of the electric kettle for Ziyanda, a South African brand with focus on luxury market, based on them concept. The well-crafted briefing brought me lots of relevant information, about inspiration for product design, target audience, materials and finishes, which needed to be high end.

In South Africa, potjiekos (literally meaning “pot food”) has been part of South Africa’s heritage and culture for many centuries. Cooking food in a potjie, also known as a “phutu pot”, is, in itself, an occasion to be celebrated by all South African cultures, regardless of race.

Potjies are traditionally made around an open fire, preferably in the company of good friends or family celebrating memorable moments, with one or more potjies simmering away.

That said, the concept of product design was inspired by this authentic icon of African culture.

The product was designed seeking a balance between the rustic concept behind the potjies and the modern and bold proposal of the brand. The harmonious fusion between wood, matte paint and chrome give a striking identity to the product, as well as a luxurious look given the high end materials used in the construction.

After the initial sketches, created and sent by Mr Ndaba, the product was entirely 3D designed, with all the internal and external components. With the help of computer graphics simulating real-world physics all parameters were checked, such as weight, balance and solidity of the structure.

A touch display controls all the product functions. I created the interface as well as the display shape that was designed at an angle that allows it to be used also as a handle to open the lid.

The light ring around the bottom of the display creates a modern and futuristic atmosphere around the product, reinforcing the brand's avant-garde proposal.

The packaging was designed to look clean and minimalist, with a trail-type opening mechanism. Just like the product, the packaging was also produced with high quality materials, using carton covered with offset paper and matte lamination with high gloss UV varnish finish.

Owner and Ziyanda's CEO: Zonke Ndaba
Product Concept: Zonke Ndaba
Product and Packaging Design: Rafael Maia
3D Modeling and Rendering: Rafael Maia