Architectural Design

Topoware is an experimental prototype for a series of porcelain dishes that address insecurities felt by the blind while eating. The designer worked with paper, plaster, silicone, fiberglass, and porcelain to create dozens of prototypes. Stumbling, fiddling, dropping, and spilling are problems that cause anxiety at the dinner table for people who are blind or have low vision. Such problems can escalate in a new environment. These objects encourage users to slow down and interact with the pieces. No piece has one fixed use. Instead, the function is determined by the user as he or she becomes more familiar with the implement. Lips prevent spills, while walls at the edges of a plate allow food to be pushed against them. A bowl made partially from flexible silicone enables indirect contact with the food. Testing (eating with) the tools was an essential part of the design process.