nadine fumiko schaub balances an interactive set of scales

nadine fumiko schaub balances an interactive set of scales
all images courtesy of fumiko schaub

seeking to achieve a strong relationship between the product and its user, ‘balance’ by swiss/japanese designer nadine fumiko schaub is an interactive set of scales. the basis for the project was traditional mechanical scales, which have been replaced by many cheap devices lacking in quality. these new kitchen appliances are rather exchanged than repaired, contributing to consumer waste – by bringing back the low-tech kitchen scale, the design helps to play a role against the ‘throw away mentality’. ‘balance’ is made out of durable and natural materials such as brass, locally crafted marble stone, wood and porcelain, with filled porcelain containers being used as counter weights. in order to verify the desired weight, the user must actively interact with the scale by touching the pointers. human fingers are capable of sensing the slightest change of discontinuity – when the weights are balanced, they will notice the equal perfection.

the scale can be disassembled, making damaged components easy to replace

the porcelain counterweights are hand-filled with lead granulate and are exactly evened

to ensure the exact measurements the pot is stabilized on a hook

the stand is fastened by wedges – a traditional and very effective way to connect wood and stone

the user can verify the desired weight by touching the pointers

the gearwheel and the chain can be removed effortlessly

the pot is simply placed on the grid and locks in place

the counterweights on the stick can be stacked in any order

the pot can contain up to 1kg of flour – just enough for most cooking experiences

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.