SPECIAL MENTIONS – DEVICE
Device – Zaur HUSEYN-ZADA and Victoria FERNANDEZ (Paris, France)
Since the dawn of humanity, the kitchen has always been more than just a place to prepare meals. It was a social gathering space, where people came together around a fire, sharing stories and warmth while preparing their food. This primitive kitchen was a community hub, strengthening social bonds through shared experiences. Over time, the kitchen became a separate room in homes, equipped with the necessary tools and appliances for efficient meal preparation. However, this evolution often led to a separation between the social and culinary aspects of the kitchen.
Modern open kitchen designs attempt to bridge this gap by integrating the kitchen into living spaces, reflecting our innate desire to gather. In a post-COVID era, it is more important than ever to rethink our living spaces to promote conviviality and well-being. We propose moving to a new stage with a fully autonomous kitchen integrated into a living space.
This concept is based on an intelligent monolithic block (named “Device”), driven by AI, which optimizes space and manages stocks, budgets, and time. The integrated AI monitors inventory, suggests recipes based on available ingredients, and plans purchases to stay within budget, thereby reducing food waste.
The Device also acts as a culinary assistant, offering detailed cooking instructions, tips, and techniques suitable for all skill levels. For those who lack time or skills, it can even take over the cooking, ensuring meals with minimal effort.
After meals, it automates cleaning through its integrated systems, allowing users to relax and enjoy their time at the table. Additionally, it serves as a communication hub, enabling users to stay connected, manage appointments, and access useful information directly from the block.
By freeing up the space typically occupied by a large traditional kitchen, this solution allows for the integration of an autonomous object that recedes into the background of our daily lives.Reinvesting in living spaces such as the living room and dining room restores these areas to their roles as places of relaxation and conviviality.
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Zaur Huseyn-zada, originally from Baku, Azerbaijan, and Victoria Fernandez, born in Paris, are both Paris-based designers with complementary backgrounds. Zaur holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Architecture and Construction University of Azerbaijan and a Master’s from the National Architecture School of Lyon (ENSAL). Victoria studied spatial design at École Boulle and earned a Master’s in interior architecture at ESAM. Together, they bring diverse experiences and a shared passion for innovative, thoughtful design.