Iron Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design · 2026
Glare Glassware Series
by Seda Palanduz and Merve Bahar
- A' Design Award 2026 Iron Winner in Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design
- Awarded April 15, 2026
- CLIENT: Kapp Industrial Kitchen Equipment
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 5,739
- Verification code A177EA6CDD · Verify this award
About Glare Glassware Series
Crystal reinterprets the visual language of cut glass through durable polypropylene, combining refined aesthetics with high performance usability. Its prismatic geometry interacts with light to create a jewel like brilliance, enhancing the sensory quality of drinkware. Developed for demanding hospitality environments, the design ensures safety, lightness, stackability without compromising elegance. The series includes five purpose specific typologies, each optimized for function while maintaining a cohesive visual identity, elevating plastic drinkware into a resilient solution.
SedaPalanduz, MerveBahar, and DelphineHeynen's Glare Glassware Series exemplifies contemporary drinkware design where material transparency, geometric precision, and optical phenomena converge to elevate utilitarian vessels into contemplative objects worthy of aesthetic attention, situating this collection within a lineage of modernist tableware innovation that includes mid-twentieth-century Scandinavian glass traditions emphasizing clarity and formal restraint alongside Japanese design philosophy valuing ma, the meaningful void, and the revelatory power of negative space. The compositional achievement evident in this presentation demonstrates sophisticated understanding of seriality as design principle, where a unified formal vocabulary, the distinctive vertical ribbing pattern deeply incised into each vessel wall, gains expressive range through systematic variation in scale, proportion, and volumetric extension, creating visual rhythm analogous to musical phrasing where repetition establishes motif while differentiation generates interest and prevents monotony. Technically, the ribbed surface articulation represents considerable manufacturing accomplishment, whether achieved through mold-blowing, pressing, or cold-working processes, as the regular alternating relief creates complex optical effects where transmitted light refracts through varied glass thickness producing luminous ladder patterns while reflected light emphasizes dimensional depth, transforming simple cylindrical forms into dynamic visual instruments that perform differently under changing illumination conditions. The chromatic restraint, maintaining nearly absolute material transparency and colorlessness, reveals confidence in form itself as sufficient aesthetic content, rejecting decorative color application in favor of letting intrinsic glass properties, clarity, refraction, reflection, weight, and coolness, speak directly and honestly about material character. Thematically, this collection explores the intersection of functional necessity and aesthetic contemplation, inviting consideration of how everyday domestic objects might transcend utilitarian anonymity to become vehicles for mindful presence, meditative attention, and appreciation of light, material, and geometric order as sources of visual pleasure and psychological calm. The tiered presentation within atmospheric environment suggests ceremonial elevation, removing vessels from casual kitchen context to gallery-like space where their formal qualities receive focused attention, perhaps asking viewers to reconsider habitual objects with fresh perception and renewed awareness of design intelligence embedded in familiar forms. What qualities of daily-use objects merit such careful formal consideration, and how might heightened aesthetic attention to functional items enrich everyday experience and domestic ritual?
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- Glare reimagines the iconic crystal glass aesthetic through the advantages of polypropylene: lightweight, shatterproof, and highly durable.
Its prismatic surface texture captures and refracts light, creating a refined, jewel-like visual effect that elevates the drinking experience. Designed for demanding, high-end HoReCa environments, Glare goes beyond functionality, transforming everyday beverage service into a memorable sensory experience. By focusing on the subtle details that define luxury, the series delivers a new standard where elegance meets resilience. - Dimensions & Packaging
- The series consists of five core typologies:
Shot Glass – 60 ml / Ø 46–47 mm / H 70 mm
Whiskey Glass – 300 ml / Ø 79–80 mm / H 95 mm
Wine Glass – 350 ml / Ø 77–78 mm / H 192 mm
Beer Glass – 600 ml / Ø 81–82 mm / H 165 mm
Cocktail Glass – 350 ml / Ø 68–70 mm / H 160 mm
All products are stackable (where applicable), lightweight, and optimized for professional service efficiency. - Tags
- Polypropylene Glass, HoReCa Tableware, Durable Drinkware, Shatterproof Glass, Luxury Barware, Light Refraction Design
- Production Technology
- The Glare series is manufactured using precision injection molding with high-quality, foodsafe polypropylene.
Advanced mold engineering enables the creation of crystal-like optical effects, typically associated with glass, within a durable polymer structure. Despite its lightweight nature, the product offers high impact resistance, is dishwashersafe, and suitable for intensive industrial use. All components are fully recyclable and available in translucent color variations that enhance light interaction. - Design Challenge
- One of the primary challenges was achieving a crystal-like optical effect using polypropylene, a material not traditionally associated with high light refraction.
Balancing conflicting requirements such as transparency, prismatic clarity, durability, and impact resistance required an integrated design and engineering approach.
Through iterative prototyping and precise mold development, a refined equilibrium between aesthetics, safety, and performance was successfully achieved. - Project Duration
- TThe design process began in January 2024 in Izmir and was completed in April 2025. The product was subsequently launched under the Kapp brand.
- Operation Flow
- Glare redefines beverage presentation through both performance and atmosphere.
Its ergonomic form and non-slip prismatic surface ensure secure handling in fast-paced service environments. Lightweight construction improves mobility, while stackability enhances storage efficiency.
Beyond functionality, Glare creates a distinctive ambiance: whether poolside, at beach venues, or exclusive events, it delivers the elegance of glass with the safety of polymer. Light reflections animate the liquid, transforming each drink into a visual highlight. - Research
- The development process was driven by in-depth analysis of user behavior and operational needs within the HoReCa sector.
Key focus areas included visual clarity, ergonomics, stackability, and durability. Multiple design iterations were explored through both hand sketching and advanced 3D modeling tools.
Close collaboration with engineering teams ensured optimal mold performance, high surface quality, and precise light interaction resulting in a product that meets both aesthetic and industrial standards. - Inspiration
- The Glare series draws inspiration from the dynamic interplay of light, geometry, and reflection. Architectural glass facades, rhythmic shadow patterns, and the refined brilliance of traditional cut crystal are reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.
This visual language is translated into polypropylene, a material aligned with today’s fast-paced, flexible lifestyles, merging timeless elegance with modern practicality. The result is a design that responds directly to the HoReCa sector’s need for both aesthetic distinction and operational durability. - Patents
- 2025/01650
Colors of Glare Glassware Series
Grand Interview about Glare Glassware Series
The defining moment came during the final prototype evaluations when we observed how light interacted with the prismatic surface of the polypropylene body. Until that stage, we knew the form was aesthetically strong and the material was technically suitable, but we had not yet witnessed the emotional impact we were aiming for.As the prototypes began producing crystal-like reflections similar to traditional glassware, I realized we had successfully bridged what many consider a contradiction: combining the elegance of crystal with the durability of polypropylene. For me, that was the moment Glare became more than a functional drinkware collection. It became an experience.Throughout the project, my goal as the lead designer was not to imitate glass, but to reinterpret its emotional value through a contemporary material. Seeing that balance achieved confirmed that the design vision and engineering efforts had truly come together.
I believe Glare contributes to a broader transformation within the HoReCa industry by demonstrating that sustainability does not require sacrificing luxury or guest experience.In high-volume hospitality environments, breakage is not only a financial concern but also an environmental one. Traditional glassware requires frequent replacement, transportation, and disposal. By using recyclable food-safe polypropylene, Glare extends product lifespan while reducing operational waste.What excites me most is that it changes perceptions. For many years, durable materials were associated with purely functional products. Through Glare, I wanted to show that recyclable materials can also deliver refinement, atmosphere, and emotional value. If luxury venues begin to view sustainability as an integrated design opportunity rather than a compromise, then I believe projects like Glare can help drive meaningful change across the industry.
The most significant breakthrough came through the development of highly precise mold surfaces capable of reproducing the prismatic geometry without compromising transparency and surface quality.From a design perspective, the challenge was not creating the texture itself, but ensuring that every facet interacted with light in a controlled manner. Even minor deviations during mold production could dramatically alter the visual effect.Working closely with engineers taught me that injection molding has far greater expressive potential than many designers assume. Initially, I approached polypropylene as a practical material. By the end of the project, I viewed it as a medium capable of delivering sophisticated visual experiences when supported by advanced manufacturing techniques.That collaboration expanded my understanding of what industrial production can achieve when design and engineering evolve together rather than sequentially.
If I had to identify a single quality that distinguished Glare, it would be its ability to reconcile opposing expectations.The project simultaneously addresses aesthetics and durability, luxury and practicality, elegance and safety. Many products succeed in one of these dimensions, but relatively few achieve a meaningful balance across all of them.Receiving international recognition is particularly meaningful because it validates the philosophy that has guided much of my work: thoughtful design should improve both the emotional and practical aspects of everyday experiences.For me, the award is not simply recognition of one product. It encourages further exploration of how advanced manufacturing, user-centered thinking, and emotional design can coexist within professional hospitality products.
The most defining obstacle was achieving crystal-like visual depth while maintaining the structural requirements necessary for intensive professional use.The prismatic surface was essential to the identity of the collection, yet increasing optical effects could potentially weaken manufacturing consistency or reduce impact resistance. Every adjustment affected multiple performance criteria simultaneously.Navigating this challenge reinforced a design philosophy that now guides much of my work: aesthetics should not be added after functionality is resolved. Instead, both must be developed together from the earliest stages.Glare taught me that the strongest innovations often emerge when designers and engineers solve problems collectively rather than defending separate priorities.
The design process began with observation rather than geometry. I was fascinated by how light behaves when it encounters repetitive patterns, reflections, and changing surfaces.From that inspiration, I translated natural rhythms into a structured prismatic language that could be adapted across different vessel types. Whether designing the shot glass, whiskey glass, wine glass, beer glass, or cocktail glass, the objective was to maintain a consistent visual identity while respecting the unique ergonomic and volumetric requirements of each form.Rather than applying a decorative texture, I treated the surface as an integral architectural element that connects the entire collection. This approach allowed the series to feel coherent while giving each piece its own distinct character.
I see Glare evolving alongside the growing demand for premium outdoor hospitality experiences.Luxury hospitality environments increasingly require products that deliver visual sophistication without the operational risks associated with traditional materials. This creates exciting opportunities for expanding the collection.I am particularly interested in exploring new translucent color expressions that interact differently with light throughout the day, as well as additional vessel formats designed for contemporary beverage culture. Material innovation is also an ongoing area of interest, especially developments that further enhance sustainability while maintaining the optical qualities that define the collection.The future of Glare will continue to focus on creating memorable sensory experiences through the intersection of design, light, and material technology.
One aspect that deserves greater attention is the emotional role of durability.Durability is often discussed only in technical terms, but in hospitality design it also shapes the guest experience. A product that feels elegant yet eliminates concerns about breakage allows both staff and guests to interact with greater confidence and comfort.With Glare, I wanted people to experience luxury through atmosphere rather than fragility. The collection challenges the long-standing assumption that premium experiences must rely on delicate materials.In many ways, its most important contribution is cultural rather than technical. It encourages a new understanding of what luxury can be in contemporary hospitality environments.
The interaction with light was intentional from the earliest conceptual stages of the project.The inspiration itself originated from reflections, architectural glazing, and crystal surfaces, so light was never considered a secondary feature. However, it became a measurable design criterion during the prototyping phase when we began evaluating how different prismatic angles influenced reflection patterns.Numerous iterations were developed to refine this relationship. Small geometric adjustments produced significant differences in visual performance.As designers, we often think about form as a physical object. Through Glare, I became increasingly interested in designing the behavior of light itself. Ultimately, the visual dynamism created by changing reflections became one of the defining characteristics of the collection.
What appears simple in the final product is often the result of extensive research, testing, and refinement.The development of Glare involved detailed analysis of hospitality environments, user behavior, stacking requirements, ergonomics, visual perception, material performance, and manufacturing constraints. Every design decision was evaluated through multiple prototypes and close collaboration with engineers.For emerging designers, I believe the most important lesson is that innovation rarely comes from a single breakthrough. More often, it emerges through persistent iteration and a willingness to revisit assumptions.The lesson I wish someone had shared with me before beginning this project is that constraints are not obstacles to creativity; they are often its greatest source. Many of the qualities that make Glare distinctive today emerged directly from the limitations we initially thought would restrict the design.