Coffee is more than a beverage—it is a ritual that shapes daily routines across the globe. The Moka Pot, invented in 1933, quickly became an iconic brewing device, celebrated for its ability to deliver strong, espresso-like coffee in households without requiring expensive machines. However, despite its timeless appeal, the traditional Moka Pot comes with usability challenges. Users often experience frustration with overheating, spillage, burnt flavors, and lack of visibility during the brewing process. Additionally, in modern households where convenience and speed dominate, the manual nature of the original design feels outdated. Our research highlighted that contemporary coffee drinkers value not just flavor, but also comfort, speed, and a visually engaging experience. Many seek an appliance that merges tradition with modern needs without compromising the essence of the ritual. This project was born from the recognition of this gap: how can we preserve the cultural heritage of the Moka Pot while solving its usability issues and aligning it with present-day lifestyles?

The redesigned Moka Pot introduces electric functionality to eliminate reliance on stovetops, making it safer and more convenient. A key innovation is the transparent body, which provides users with a clear view of the brewing process—transforming coffee-making into a more immersive and engaging ritual. The product features a carefully considered ergonomic handle for safe gripping, a locking mechanism to prevent accidental spills, and an intuitive on/off control system for ease of use. The interior structure was rethought with clearly defined compartments for brewing, filtering, and steam circulation, ensuring efficiency while maintaining the characteristic taste profile of Moka-brewed coffee. Extensive user research revealed that users disliked the burnt taste that often resulted from overheating, so the design incorporates temperature regulation through the electric base. By integrating aesthetics with functional improvements, the new Moka Pot doesn’t just solve practical problems but also enriches the overall coffee experience.

The final design delivers a product that balances tradition, innovation, and aesthetics. By preserving the familiar silhouette of the Moka Pot while updating it with a transparent form, the design pays homage to Alfonso Bialetti’s original vision yet offers users a new perspective on coffee brewing. The transparent construction not only solves visibility issues but elevates the act of brewing into a performance—one that invites anticipation and appreciation. Electrification improves safety and convenience, aligning the product with contemporary urban lifestyles where speed and ease are critical. At the same time, the durable build encourages long-term use, making it a sustainable alternative to disposable coffee pods and machines with short lifespans. This project is more than just a coffee appliance—it is a symbol of continuity, where cultural heritage is respected while modern innovation enhances its relevance. The reimagined Moka Pot demonstrates how user research, design thinking, and aesthetic refinement can revitalize an iconic product for a new generation.