Silent Machine is a tea set by design graduate Eunjae Lee, based on the components of an engine. Reflecting aesthetic interpretations of functional forms, the dark matt, cylindrical pieces resemble nuts, bolts, screw threads and washers, and were designed by Lee while studying at HDK School of Design and Crafts in Gothenburg. The designs are to be presented at the Formex 2012 design fair in Stockholm this week. Rather than the ornate nature that tea sets are known for, mechanical regularity is achieved through mathematically formulated silhouettes. Lee says of the project:

"Machines are growing into more dynamic and intelligent tools around us, and being supplemented and improved by more recent technological advances, although it seems undeniable that their glorious time has vanished and remains a part of history. The aim of this study was to draw out recast values induced from the passing of time and transitions, and to refigure them under the present sentiment. Non-aesthetic things are re-illuminated and become emotionally connected with us It can be understand as a retrospective and commemorative intention by relocating our perspectives in the middle of the machine age."

Jack Smylie