Designing an in-sink dishwasher to optimising kitchen space

Exploring kitchen-washing scenarios in Chinese Market

01/2025
FOTILE SINK is a new project created by PHOENIX design, innovative german design agency with more than 950 awards
Relevance
Fotile was a pioneer and disruptor in China when, seven years ago, it introduced dishwashers to the market. Now, regular dishwashers are no longer a niche product. The market developed, and because of the lack of space in Chinese kitchens, built-in dishes became the optimal choice. To remain relevant, Fotile needed a breakthrough design strategy. And this is one of our specialities.
Business Design
CGI
CMFP
Design Strategy
Industrial Design
Product Design
Research
UI/UX Design
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Challenge

Redefining the Sink: Designing an Innovative In-Sink Dishwasher

Fotile challenged PHOENIX to design an innovative in-sink dishwasher that stands out among competitors and appeals to Chinese consumers. PHOENIX explored the broader role of the sink in kitchen-washing scenarios, examining behaviours like washing, chopping, draining, and dishwashing within the "sink area." People constantly see the sink as a water source but ignore its unique link to individuals' kitchen activities. PHOENIX research revealed the sink's potential as more than a water source—it's a kitchen hub that simplifies housework and optimises space. By redefining the sink's significance, PHOENIX aims to create a product that enhances functionality and reshapes kitchen workflows.

multifuncional sink solution created by PHOENIX design with partnership with FOTILE
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Strategic design solution for sink designed by PHOENIX, product design agency in stuttgart and shanghai

Impact

Optimising Kitchen Space: The Rise of Multifunctional Sink Solutions

With rising demand for diverse culinary experiences, limited kitchen space drives Chinese consumers to prioritise space efficiency and workflow optimisation when renovating kitchens or buying appliances. Consumers weigh each appliance's space against its value, favouring large single-basin sinks for their flexibility over dual sinks. The sink has become a hub for multifunctional products like water purifiers, dishwashers, and draining racks, competing for space. Products that save space, such as sinks with drain platforms or built-in soap dispensers, are especially appealing, reflecting the need for innovative, space-efficient solutions in modern kitchens.

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We observed that users have various types of kitchen chores overlapped in this area, it allowed us to redefine the entire structure of the product.
Wencheng Zhang Senior Industrial Designer

Collaboration

The Strategic Design Solution

The new generation of sink dishwasher design integrates the "sink" and "wash" zones into a "one-piece operation surface." Lowering the dishwasher panel and using aerospace-grade scratch-resistant metal transforms the panel into additional countertop space for food prep and draining. This innovation enhances kitchen usability while redefining the sink dishwasher's core design. A clear distinction between digital and physical interactions reduces clutter, optimising daily operations. The horizontal digital interaction zone spans the large basin, integrating technology and setting the stage for a more intelligent, more efficient sink experience in the future.

Fotile sink, design product made by PHOENIX design and fotile

Implementation

The Key to a Better Life: Synchronisation of Housework

Post-pandemic, Chinese consumers have embraced home dining, striving for culinary expertise while avoiding kitchen mess. Many households now rely on innovative products to streamline chores, aligning tasks across time and space. Water consumption exemplifies this integration, with growing awareness of water purification leading to diverse water-use needs. Our designs address these trends with features like a draining tray in a sliding accessory system and a horizontal digital display for convenience and consistency. Built-in dishwashers have also become vital, synchronising dishwashing with other chores to free up leisure time. As competition for kitchen space intensifies, the success of new product categories hinges on their ability to provide superior value in key scenarios and seamlessly integrate into modern workflows.

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