Hasta La Ideas

Alessi’s fresh take on one of the oldest kitchen appliances

The mortar and pestle is one of the most ancient utensils in the contemporary chef’s arsenal, and Eero Aarnio has given the classic grinder a makeover. Using smooth, playful curves reminiscent of his popular ’67 Ball Chair, Aarnio redefines the generally clunky mortar with a short cylinder base and a polished, ergonomic pestle.

Aarnio designed this piece for Alessi, saying of his work there, “I approach product design from two different angles: firstly, from a study of the possibilities that new materials bring to the design process and secondly, through creativity based solely on feelings, which in turn brings you closer to art and endless possibilities.” The “Aroma” will debut with the Alessi Fall/Winter 2011 collection in August.