Looking to reinvigorate their signature Hotpan product and bring excitement to their customer base, Swiss housewares company Kuhn Rikon sought out Material ConneXion to research and identify material alternatives that met Kuhn Rikon’s performance characteristics, and possessed a new aesthetic appeal.

The materials identified needed to be heat resistant, but also fulfill the Hotpan’s second use as a serving bowl, which meant withstanding any liquids that would be placed directly in the bowl, such as salad dressing. In addition to identifying materials, the Material ConneXion team acted as liaison between the material manufacturer and Kuhn Rikon, providing support where needed.

Kuhn Rikon selected a reinforced concrete that reflected a distinct departure from their bright, melamine bowls. The concrete not only aligned with current design trends, but its resistance to liquids and household chemicals made it ideal for application in housewares. Kuhn Rikon debuted their new Elements of Style collection at Ambiente Frankfurt in February 2017, and at the International Home & Housewares Show in Chicago in March 2017, where it was met with much excitement.