Betul Cakir
Modular Tea-Sharing Table: Bridging Cultures Through Ritual
Class of: 2028
Major: Interior Design BFA
Medium: Furniture design using wood and recycled materials
Faculty: Aviva Maya Shulem
Prompt: As we continue to explore the idea of identity and belonging, the objects we create can tell a story about who we are and the communities we connect with. In this project, you’ll design and create a 3D object that reflects your personal identity or your connection to a community. Whether it’s a functional piece or a sculpture, you’ll use design research and material exploration to bring your concept to life. The focus is on how shape, texture, and structure can communicate a sense of belonging and self-expression.
This piece fits the assignment by focusing on how design can reflect connection and identity, using a functional object as the medium. My goal was to create a modular tea-sharing table that encourages social interaction, drawing from Turkish and Japanese tea cultures. The table’s modular design allows it to adapt to different spaces, just like how tea rituals change depending on the setting.
I chose wood and recycled materials because they feel authentic and sustainable, aligning with the idea of creating something that lasts. The built-in heating element, inspired by the Turkish samovar, adds a practical touch while staying true to the cultural influences.
My research into Turkish and Japanese tea cultures really shaped the design. Both cultures use tea to
bring people together, and I wanted the table to reflect that by encouraging conversation and connection in a communal space. The design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space for shared experiences and connecting people.