Keith Melbourne

I wanted to ask the question “Why?”. Why is this cutlery no longer desired? What was once a desirable object is now on it’s last stop before landfill. As this cutlery is still perfectly functional the problem must be aesthetic. The design of these pieces must not have sufficiently broad appeal ‘today’.
Modifying objects for reuse is often financially prohibitive because adding materials and refinishing can easily make the product more expensive than a new alternative. I wanted to explore whether it was possible to change the aesthetic appeal of the cutlery without adding anything at all. In fact I set myself the goal of only being able to take material away.
I hope the bite marks broaden the appeal of these beautiful old pieces, and make one or two people crack a smile.

Designer – Keith Melbourne

15 years developing advanced engine and control system technology in the international automotive industry. Traveling around the world to test vehicles and manage large engineering projects. Keith Melbourne has not followed a typical path into furniture and product design.
Since changing career direction in 2004, Keith has exhibited extensively at national exhibitions, and received a number of design awards. Not surprisingly his work is influenced by his previous experiences, and seems to represent a realm where engineering precision meets artistic creativity.

Product photography by: Nicole Reed - A Shot Away