16/08/2023
The Unofficial Cup and Lips Theory: 3 Valuable Lessons for Crafting Product/Service Offerings
The "cup and lips theory" is a term coined by British designer Peter Ting, who created a series of porcelain cups with curved lips that are designed to enhance the tea drinking experience.
Ting was inspired by the ancient Chinese practice of drinking tea from bowls without handles, which he found to be more intimate and sensual than using cups with handles. He wanted to create a modern version of this tradition, using porcelain instead of clay, and adding a subtle curve to the rim of the cup. The curve is meant to fit the shape of the lips and allow the tea to flow smoothly into the mouth.
Ting's theory is that the shape of the cup affects the way we perceive and enjoy the tea. He believes that the curved lip creates a more harmonious and elegant interaction between the cup and the lips, which enhances the flavor, aroma, and texture of the tea.
He also thinks that the curved lip makes the cup more comfortable and ergonomic to hold and drink from. Ting says that his cups are "designed for lips, not for fingers"².
The "cup and lips theory" is not a formal mathematical theory, but it does involve some mathematical concepts. The curve of the lip is based on a geometric shape called a hyperbola
Let me not bore you with the equations....
The hyperbola has some interesting properties that make it suitable for designing cups. For example, it has a constant curvature, which means that every point on the curve has the same degree of bending. This makes the curve smooth and continuous, without any sharp corners or edges.
Another property is that it has a negative curvature, which means that it curves in opposite directions at different points. This creates a contrast between the inner and outer sides of the lip, which adds to the aesthetic appeal of the cup.
The "cup and lips theory" is an example of how mathematics can be applied to art and design, and how different disciplines can influence each other. It also shows how something as simple as a cup can have a profound impact on our sensory experience and enjoyment of tea.
LESSONS FOR SMALL BUSINESS OWNERS:
Customer-Centric Design: Just as the designer Peter Ting focused on creating cups that fit the shape of the lips for a better tea-drinking experience, you should prioritize customer-centric design. Pay attention to the comfort, convenience, and sensory aspects of your product. Understand your customers' preferences, behaviors, and desires to create offerings that align with their needs.
Aesthetic Harmony: The theory highlights how the curvature of the cup's lip affects the overall aesthetic appeal. Similarly, you should consider the visual and sensory elements of their products. Strive for design elements that create a harmonious and appealing experience for your customers. A well-designed product/service not only functions well but also engages customers on a sensory and emotional level.
Interdisciplinary Inspiration: The "cup and lips theory" combines elements from mathematics, design, and sensory experience. Small business owners like you can draw inspiration from various disciplines to innovate their products. Embrace interdisciplinary approaches that combine creativity, technology, and functionality. These unique combinations can lead to innovative solutions that cater to customer needs in unexpected ways.
Incorporating these lessons can help small business owners create product offerings that resonate deeply with their customers, just as the carefully designed cups enhance the tea-drinking experience by fitting perfectly with the lips.
