Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine by Keven Wu, Yujun Wu and Paolo Piuri

Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine by Keven Wu, Yujun Wu and Paolo Piuri is a highly esteemed winner of the very prestigious 2026 A' Design Award 銀獎 in 家用電器設計 Competition Category.

銀家用電器· 2026

Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine

by Keven Wu, Yujun Wu and Paolo Piuri

Client: Co2ffe

A' Design Award 銀獎 Winner in 家用電器 Category

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The Design

About Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine

The Co2ffe espresso machine is a semi-automatic domestic system that uses standard CO₂ canisters, such as SodaStream, to generate 9 bar brewing pressure required for espresso extraction. The replacement of a conventional vibratory pump reduces noise and vibration to a soft hiss. This alternative pressure system allows an open structural layout that avoids a closed, box like housing and makes the brewing process visible during use. The design integrates patented technology developed to produce crema in line with Italian espresso formula, 25 ml of water, 9 bar, and 7 grams of coffee.

The Recognition

About the A' Design Award 銀獎

Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine是 A' Design Award 銀獎得主，這是授予頂級、華美而令人印象深刻的設計的極為崇高的認可。銀獎得主是極其卓越、極具創造力的作品，展現出其設計師傑出的專業技能、才華與敏銳。預計Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine將成為一件出色的典範之作，兼具非凡的專業性與深刻的創新性。這件贏得 A' Design Award 銀獎的設計是一項備受矚目、令人欽佩的發明，造福並拓展藝術、科學、設計和技術的界限。Co2ffe Espresso Coffee Machine是一件令人羨慕的創作，它喚起渴望，帶來積極的情感，並激發驚嘆與讚嘆。

Behind the Design

Press Kit

Credits, team members and technical details provided by the designer.

Unique Properties: Co2ffe is a semi-automatic domestic espresso machine powered by CO2 canisters capable of delivering constant 9-bar pressure. Replacing the traditional ULKA pump eliminates noise and vibration, leaving only a soft, controlled hiss.

Freed from the constraints of a conventional boxed housing, Co2ffe features an open and transparent design that reveals the entire brewing process. Espresso preparation becomes quiet, tactile, and intentional, shifting from "click and go" to a more involved and sensory experience.
Dimensions & Packaging: Dimensions: 156 mm (W) x 433 mm (D) x 193 mm (H). Weight: 6.9 kg. Materials: aluminum, plastic, stainless steel. Water tank heats to 95 degrees Celsius. Power: 400W (EU) / 110W (US). Cup capacity: 25 ml. CO2 connection: diameter 21 mm – 6 ACME 2G threaded valve. Compatible with SodaStream-type CO2 canisters. Power plug: Type A. Designed for compact countertop use.
Tags: espresso machine, coffee maker, industrial design, barista tool, home appliance, compact espresso machine
Production Technology: Co2ffe is built from aluminum, stainless steel, and high-performance polymers selected for durability and thermal stability. The integrated CO2 system connects through a secure TR21x4 threaded valve, ensuring safe and consistent pressure delivery.

Core elements including the rotary lever, heating chamber, CO2 transfer tube, and pod holder are designed for clarity and precision. Structural components such as the frame and drip tray are injection-molded for efficiency, while pressure-bearing metal parts are CNC-machined or cast for strength and longevity.
Design Challenge: One of the greatest challenges came after the first working prototype was completed. Refining the final 10% of the machine required months of technical adjustments, calibration, and iteration to achieve the desired balance between performance, safety, and simplicity.

Another key challenge was communicating the product's dual value: not only its functional innovation, but also its emotional dimension. Co2ffe is designed to work efficiently - yet its true strength lies in transforming espresso preparation into a sensory, intentional ritual.
Research: After completing the first functional prototype, a qualitative research study was conducted with 16 participants aged 23 to 38, all regular coffee drinkers with diverse preparation habits. Through 45-minute structured interviews, the study explored perceptions, associations, and overall user experience.

The findings revealed a strong appreciation for the machine's modern aesthetic, material choices, and transparent design. Participants valued the ritualistic brewing process, describing it as more engaging and intentional compared to conventional push-button machines. The quiet soundscape was also perceived as calming and distinctive.

These insights informed further refinements and helped define clear points of differentiation within the competitive landscape.
Inspiration: The inspiration came from the need for a portable espresso machine that uses CO2 to make coffee, which was later scaled into a domestic version. After multiple prototypes and tests, the engineering was refined. Co2ffe draws from a minimalist aesthetic, intuitive, free of superfluous elements, and designed for soft visual appeal. Its form and function are grounded in the principles of portability and simplicity.
Project Duration: 2.5 years, Milan.
Operation Flow: Press the power button at the base, and a soft red LED signals readiness. Lift the top lever, add fresh water, and insert a coffee pod beneath the heating chamber. Close the lever to secure it in place.

With a gentle downward press, CO2 pressure is released, and extraction begins quietly, with only a subtle hiss. Moments later, your espresso is ready
Team Members: Yujun Wu, Paolo Piuri and Keven Wu
Image Credits: Image #1: Photographer Keven Wu (Visual Designer), Espresso Machine Campaign, 2025.
Image #3: Photographer Keven Wu (Visual Designer), Espresso Machine CO2 Integrated, 2025.
Image #3: Photographer Giovanni Baracchi (Videomaker) User Interaction with Espresso Machine, 2025.
Image #4: Model Luca Trevisani, Edoardo Anastasio (Videomaker), Espresso Machine Lifestyle Scene, 2025.
Image #1: Photographer Keven Wu (Visual Designer), Espresso Machine Lifestyle, 2025.
Video Credits: Directed by Keven Wu (Visual Designer), Filmed by Edoardo Anastasio, Edited by Keven Wu, Model Luca Trevisani, Soundtrack Cristof Manzini, 2025.