Melodic Kettle - Richard Sapper Design

The kettle, designed by Richard Sapper in 1984, combines soft, streamlined forms with a strongly contrasting technical whistle. Its whistle is engineered to play a melody built from two tones, mi and si, rather than the harsh sound typically produced when water boils. The kettle is suitable for all types of hobs, including induction.

The kettle, designed by Richard Sapper in 1984, became an instant classic. A recognisable object, used in many films, adverts and on television, it was designed by Richard Sapper, whose day-to-day work involves more technologically advanced products such as ships. The author's interests are reflected in the form of the kettle, which combines soft, streamlined forms with a strongly contrasting, 'technical' whistle. It is this element that is most interesting about the kettle as a whole. The designer wanted it to play a melody composed of two sounds: mi and si, rather than the unpleasant tones one usually hears when boiling water. The result is a work of art that appeals to more than just the sense of sight. The kettle is suitable for all types of hobs, including induction.