Iron Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design · 2020
Fragments Flask
by Irene Yeung
- A' Design Award 2020 Iron Winner in Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design
- Awarded April 15, 2020
- CLIENT: Derangedsign
- Estimated Number of Design Views: 13,381
- Verification code ABAF256DC7 · Verify this award
About Fragments Flask
Composed of three irregular geometrical flasks, the fragmented family has its unique design character. Each flask is designed as a fragment, when the three flasks are put together, they are formed an art block and sculpture. The designer has put emphasis on artisanal craftsmanship with delicated mirror finish on the exterior, and using stainless steel grade 18/10. The ingenuity of the design makes it collectible for showcase and also a collection of travel necessities.
Press Kit
- Unique Properties
- The fragment flask family is a modern and elegant design of three flasks. It is made from stainless steel 18/10. This type of steel is particularly resistant to acid and corrosion. This set includes 3 flasks, each is designed as a fragment with unconventional shape, and three flasks can be put together as an art block and sculpture. Every piece of the set is polished with a crisp, mirror finish on the exterior. They’ll reflect the beauty all around them just like a mirror.
This flask set is not just simply the containers, but also the art in our daily lives. - Dimensions & Packaging
- Flask-L: L97.5 x W35 x H117mm (8oz)
Flask-M: L95 x W40 x H93mm (6oz)
Flask-S: L78 x W33.5 x H78mm (3oz) - Tags
- flask, fragments, stainlesssteelflask, lifefragments
- Production Technology
- The material used is Stainless Steel 18/10 which is the high grade of stainless steel, and that is super rust-resistant. With the metalworking techniques of laser cutting and laser welding, the polygonal shape of flasks was made.
- Design Challenge
- The creativity is totally beyond the production possibilities. Abnormal and polygonal design of flasks requires special metalworking techniques that the defective rate is high.
- Project Duration
- The project started in September 2019 in Hong Kong and finished in December in China, and was exhibited in Ambiente Frankfurt (Germany) & Tokyo International Gift Show (Japan) in February 2020.
- Research
- Materials and exploring various metalworking production techniques were crucial to the success of the production of this project.
- Inspiration
- Fragment is the idea of flask design. Life is the fragments of joy & sorrow, we go through all special moments with drinks, no matter alone on a journey or with friends at the party. So each flask is designed as the form of different fragments and three flasks can be well-fitly put together, like each individual of us can share their moments with friends or families together and give each other a hug. The outer mirror-polishing give the idea as fragments of mirror and memories of life. This design is to bring art & inspiration to daily life with little simple objects which are changed to be unconventional.
Colors of Fragments Flask
Design Interview about Fragments Flask
Fragment is the main idea of flask design. Life is full of many different kind of feelings, especially when we travel and have alcohols.
I designed this flask set for our company, Derangedsign Co.
This flask set is produced by our partner, TK, which is an experienced metalworking manufacturer based in Hong Kong and have a factory in Guangdong, China. TK is our sole and appointed supplier of metalware.
Life is full of many elements like feelings, memories, families & friends, etc. All these are the fragments of our lives.
Laser welding is crucial for this design. It's always hard to turn crazy ideas to be the real metalware. Upon the advanced technology in metalworking, I can think out of the box and my supplier can help to realize my dreams always.
The creativity is totally beyond the production possibilities. Abnormal and polygonal design of flasks requires special metalworking techniques that the defective rate is high.
During my first attendance to the Ambiente Frankfurt 2020, I was totally impressed by everything at the show. I was interested to be one of the role-player in the international fair and design competition. Also, great encouragement from Hong Kong Trade Development Council really made me to step forward and joined A'design Award.
Grand Interview about Fragments Flask
The artistic vision for Fragments Flask evolved from an exploration of impermanence and unity. During the initial sketching phase, I experimented with geometric fragmentation as a metaphor for how individual experiences coalesce into a cohesive whole. This concept matured through iterative physical models, where the tension between independent forms and their assembled sculptural presence became central, resulting in three polygonal vessels that gain emotional depth when united.
The mirror-finished exterior was inspired by the reflective quality of memory and self-reflection in everyday rituals. By incorporating a highly polished 18/10 stainless steel surface, the design captures and distorts surrounding light and imagery, inviting users to project their own narratives onto the object. This element strengthens the emotional connection by transforming a functional flask into a personal, contemplative artifact that evolves with its environment and user.
Producing the irregular polygonal shapes presented significant challenges in precision laser cutting and TIG welding. I balanced artistic vision with manufacturability by developing detailed digital templates that maintained sharp geometric integrity while optimizing seam alignments for structural stability. Prototyping iterations focused on minimal material distortion, ensuring the sculptural fluidity remained intact without compromising the clean, seamless welds essential to the final aesthetic.
The capacity choices of 8oz, 6oz, and 3oz were informed by user research into contemporary drinking habits, travel needs, and social sharing rituals. These sizes accommodate solo use, couple interactions, and group settings respectively, while their graduated proportions enhance the visual dialogue when assembled. Insights from observational studies and feedback from Hong Kong’s urban lifestyle informed this practical yet poetic scaling.
My decade of experience in sheet metalworking directly shaped both the technical execution and aesthetic restraint of Fragments Flask. Industry expertise in material behavior under cutting, forming, and finishing processes allowed me to push the boundaries of geometric complexity while maintaining durability. This background instilled a respect for honest material expression, evident in the precise welds and mirror finish that celebrate the inherent qualities of stainless steel.
My philosophy centers on elevating the ordinary through subtle artistic intervention. I believe functional objects should quietly enrich daily life by merging utility with sculptural presence, fostering moments of pause and appreciation. Fragments Flask embodies this approach by transforming a simple drinking vessel into an interactive art piece that encourages mindful interaction and emotional engagement.
Selecting high-grade 18/10 stainless steel aligns with my commitment to sustainable design and extended product life-cycle. Its exceptional corrosion resistance, recyclability, and timeless durability ensure longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacement. This choice reflects a responsible approach that minimizes environmental impact while delivering an heirloom-quality object intended to accompany users across years of use.
From September to December 2019, Fragments Flask evolved rapidly from conceptual sketches and digital modeling to refined prototypes and exhibition-ready pieces. Key milestones included material testing in October, resolution of welding challenges in November, and final finishing adjustments before debut at Ambiente Frankfurt. The intensive period culminated in its presentation at the Tokyo International Gift Show, where feedback further validated the design’s emotional resonance.
The decision to create pieces that function independently yet form a larger sculptural whole was influenced by themes of fragmentation and reconnection in modern life. This duality allows users to engage with the design flexibly—separately for practical use or assembled as an artistic centerpiece—creating an intriguing visual and tactile dialogue that rewards both daily interaction and contemplative display.
Receiving recognition through the A’ Design Award affirms the potential of merging artistic expression with functional design. I envision Fragments Flask as a foundation for future collections that continue exploring material poetry and interactive forms, inspiring a broader body of work that challenges conventional boundaries between art, craft, and everyday utility within Derangedsign’s portfolio.