This post is a repeat of the following one, which I modified so that the images could be read in different browsers. Sorry for the confusion!
If you can take the time to read this and answer a few questions, my daughter Claire would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for your time!
Hello everyone, this is Claire (Casey’s daughter). I am a design student and am currently finishing my thesis project, for which I need your help. Here’s the deal: I need feedback for my project, and so I need as many people as possible to comment on it.
My project is a cooking station. The concept behind the product is to change the traditional ‘dinner-party’ model, in which one person (usually the hostess) is confined to the kitchen getting the food ready while the rest of the party sit at the table and wait to be served before they can all enjoy their meal together. The idea is to achieve this by refocusing the social activity around the cooking station. This is done by allowing for multiple users and encouraging people to eat as they cook, the idea being to experiment different recipes in order to taste many different things in one session. The plan is to instigate more freedom into the cooking process, and promote good food by focusing people’s attentions on the processes relating to it; the result being that they will take the time to enjoy it rather than shoving it down their throats in front of TV.
The design consists of a large (80×120cm, 31.5×47.2in for the Americans) vitro-ceramic surface powered by induction, set on an inverse U-shaped stainless steel structure (80cm high), supporting two sets of shelves (40cm(15.7in) wide) (four in total).

The ‘island’ shape of the unit permits access from all sides, which allows for multiple users. The smooth top is designed for versatility in its accommodation of cooking methods and maximal hygiene. Induction is used to power the unit, which ensures the safety of unsupervised and inquisitive children (as the surface itself does not heat up, only the cooking vessel). Adjustable shelves provide modular storage space and are removable to allow for wheelchair access. The aesthetics of the unit are designed to reflect those of a contemporary luxury kitchen, inspired by the work of top kitchen design companies.
Ergonomics is a big part of the design. The height is calculated so that the ingredients are more visible in the pots and so it is possible for wheelchair users to cook. In order for it to be possible to comfortably chop vegetables or complete other tasks which require more height, a series of ‘elements’ have been designed to go with the cooking station.


Here are some renderings to give you an idea of the operation of the cooking station. Unfortunately I don’t have any good photos of the model as of yet.


So, tell me what you think. Don’t hesitate to be mean (I know you guys are usually too nice).
I need to know whether you would be willing to try it, and if you think it’s a good idea. If you can be more precise and say how much you would pay for such a product or things like that, that’s even better. Don’t wreck your heads over it or anything; I’m also conducting a focus group.
Thank you!!!!!!!!