Warmth of the past

Warmth of the past, design for the future. My project reimagines how historical everyday objects can inspire modern, sustainable solutions by merging the aesthetics and function of the traditional tiled stove with infrared heating technology. The core problem it addresses is the inefficiency of today’s air-based heating systems, which consume excessive energy and provide less targeted warmth, often heating entire spaces inefficiently. The goal of this design is to create a heating solution that is both functional and decorative, drawing on the emotional and social warmth the tiled stove once brought to homes. Infrared technology, unlike air-based systems, delivers localized radiant heat that directly warms objects and people in its path, offering more efficient, targeted warmth. This reintroduces direct heating, making it well-suited to today’s flexible living spaces.

What sets this concept apart from conventional infrared panels is its fusion of ceramic craftsmanship with modern technology. With its fluted surface, it invites the user to touch and interact, while the varied textures of the glaze enhance the tactile experience and make the product feel more like an artisanal object than a technical device. This design approach helps integrate the product into living environments, adding warmth not only in function but also in form. The product comes in two versions: a tabletop and a freestanding model, offering flexibility for different home setups and preferences. They serve as aesthetic focal points in a room, breaking away from the common approach of hiding heating appliances. Instead, the design transforms the heating source into a central, decorative feature, giving it both functional and visual importance. By modernizing the principles of the tiled stove, this project illustrates how we can learn from historical objects to create innovative solutions for the future. It reminds us that traditional ideas, often overlooked in the face of modern technology, can hold valuable insights for addressing contemporary challenges.