Cassandra Ei Lyn

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This project is a user-centered exploration of wok design rooted in Tzi Char culture.

 

Inspired by the fast-paced, high-heat world of Tzi Char hawkers, this project reimagines the humble wok handle through the lens of human factors and cultural practice. By observing the gestures, grips, and rhythms of local cooks, the design prioritizes comfort, control, and safety without compromising on the traditional essence of the tool. The final form draws from both ergonomic insight and the organic branching structures of nature, resulting in a handle that supports not just the hand, but the heritage it serves.

The handle was developed through an iterative process involving user observation, task analysis, and ergonomic testing. Key insights were drawn from studying grip fatigue, wrist alignment, and heat transfer during prolonged cooking sessions. The final design features a contoured grip with branching extensions to distribute pressure evenly across the palm, reducing strain and increasing stability. Materials and dimensions were selected based on thermal resistance, durability, and weight balance to ensure optimal performance in high-heat, high-motion kitchen environments.