Cast Iron Set

Designing in a team, with a purpose

Our task for this project was to design a set of three cast iron pieces. Through our research, my design team and I (Chapin Henry and Elliott Bryan) identified a key challenge with cast iron: its bulky nature makes storage difficult, particularly in small kitchens. To address this issue, we developed a set specifically designed for efficient storage. This design direction led us to the concept of a stacking set with a universal lid. By incorporating this approach, we minimized the inherent storage burden of a three-piece cast iron set while also creating a product with strong market appeal.

After establishing our design direction, we selected a set consisting of a stock pot, a saucepan, and a sauté pan, providing users with a versatile range of cooking possibilities. To complement these pieces, we developed a universal lid featuring integrated condensation rings, designed for compatibility across all components of the set.

Bottom Three models by Elliott Bryan

As a team, we explored form development through both sketching and 3D modeling. Early in the ideation process, we identified the integration of wood into the handle as a key design direction. This concept generated strong enthusiasm within the group, and after extensive prototyping and iteration with 3D printing, we refined and finalized the form concept.

Model Renders.

Building Final Looks-Like Prototypes.

The purpose of creating looks-like models was to show exactly what our product would look like. This can help a client fully understand our final design intent.