'calla lily watering can' by gerasimina sarantopoulos iida awards 2010

‘calla lily watering can’ by gerasimina sarantopoulos

‘calla lily watering can’ by gerasimina sarantopoulos from the uk is one of the shortlisted entries from more than 4000 participants in the iida awards 2010 competition, organized by designboom in collaboration with incheon metropolitan city.

the organically shaped watering can mimics the aesthetic and function of a calla lily flower to collect and hold as much rain water as possible.

designer’s own words: ‘calla lily’ is a watering can which is designed to collect rain water. its shape is inspired by the upper part of calla lily flowers and it functions in a similar way: the upper surface is maximized so it can collect a high amount of rain water. it is meant to be used on balconies, patios and backyards where the use of large water buds is practically and aesthetically inapt. is shape is derived from a thorough observation of natural water collectors (leaves, flower petals, insects), having a large, wide surface facing the sky with the aim of collecting as much rainwater as possible. the upper surface is inspired by the calla lily flower in both aesthetics and function. the main body of the watering can is based on conventional corresponding items altered in a way in which the calla lily can be hung on a balcony frame for collecting rain fall. its size is similar to a conventional watering can, adequate in capacity for watering small interior flower and plants as well as being light enough to be carried around in one hand. its organic and elegant shape makes it an item of high aesthetic value as well as a product with purpose and meaning.

(left) the handle is designed in order to fit on the majority of balcony handrails (right) the symmetrical deformation at the bottom of the watering can enhances stability when standing, as well as allow for better alignment when it is hung

(left) collecting rain water (right) in use as a watering can

hanging on a balcony railing

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