What if a plate could speak for itself, sparking conversations among diners?

The Talking Plate is a tableware piece designed to transform the dining experience by fostering connection and conversation among diners. Crafted with ergonomic precision and made from Keep Life, a sustainable composite derived from nutshells, the plate combines functionality, aesthetics, and social purpose. Its unique design, inspired by the form of a vinyl record, features evocative textures and thought-provoking phrases that act as conversation starters.

In this interview, Petrillo shares the journey behind his creation. Throughout the discussion, the designer highlights the interplay between design and human interaction, the collaborative efforts that brought the project to life, and the limitless potential of expanding the concept. Whether through its thoughtful material choices or its evocative textures, The Talking Plate serves as a reminder of the importance of shared moments and the art of slowing down to truly connect.

How did the idea of ‘Il Piatto Parlante’ come about?

Pietro Petrillo:

“The concept of “The Talking Plate” project emerged from moments shared at the dining table. I believe a designer’s purpose is to enhance daily life by transforming objects into tools that provide practical and thoughtful solutions to everyday challenges. One such challenge is the growing tendency to engage with distant individuals via smartphones during meals, often at the expense of connecting with those nearby.

The Talking Plate aims to foster interaction among diners, using the plate itself as a starting point for connection, even before the meal begins. This innovative plate goes beyond its function as a container—it serves as a conversation catalyst, sparking dialogue with evocative phrases and intriguing textures. Its design evokes the form of a vinyl record—a cloche reimagined as a 45-rpm disc, symbolically “playing” the stories it carries.

A defining feature of the project is its material: Keep Life, a sustainable composite made from nutshells. For me, this project represents the culmination of nearly a decade of experimentation and the development of a patented process that transforms agro-industrial waste into an innovative material.

Ultimately, this project embodies who I am, blending my passion for design with my love of food and cooking. The parallels between these two fields are striking: both require careful composition, balance of ingredients, and precise timing to achieve success. Designers and chefs alike create for others, driven by generosity and a shared goal of building meaningful connections and leaving lasting, positive memories through their work.”

How was the design process structured? How was production approached, given the use of the innovative material Keep Life?

Pietro Petrillo:

“The development of the product began with designing the plate according to key ergonomic principles. The plate needed to be sufficiently deep to hold food securely and capable of maintaining a stable temperature. To achieve this, it is paired with a cloche that deviates from the traditional dome shape, adopting a sleek, disc-like form.

To further refine its functionality and visual appeal, I introduced an additional material component: a sandwich disc made of two metal sheets with a composite core. The cloche, skillfully crafted by Ambientha—a company renowned for its expertise in wallpaper design—showcases the result of a new and rewarding collaboration. Using advanced technology, Ambientha transferred my custom-designed textures onto the cloche, resulting in a product that stands out for its uniqueness and elegance.

To ensure practicality and hygiene, the plate was finished with a transparent, water-based coating specifically designed for food safety. This protective layer seals the pores of the Keep Life material, making the plate easy to clean under running water and dry with a simple cotton cloth. The coating not only enhances its durability but also ensures the plate is safe, hygienic, and perfectly suited for everyday use, combining innovation with functionality and aesthetic appeal.”

From your perspective, how can this project effectively stimulate conversation at the table?

Pietro Petrillo:

“First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that no one holds the absolute truth. Each of us is on a continuous journey to find answers and solutions to the many questions life presents daily. This project—or rather, this product—seeks to challenge the social issue I previously discussed. Its aim is to help you temporarily break free from the constant flow of information and external distractions, allowing you to focus during a meal on the plate before you and the company of those sharing that moment.

The choice of materials for the plate serves as an initial step in fostering meaningful interaction. This is followed by its aesthetic design, which communicates through evocative textures and thoughtfully chosen phrases crafted to spark curiosity and encourage conversation. Ultimately, as with everything in life, this process relies on our ability to remain curious, sensitive, and mindful of the world around us.

Thankfully, we no longer live in an age of isolation—we have moved beyond that. Today, one of the most valuable lessons from our shared experiences is the opportunity to thrive in an environment filled with meaningful interactions and enriching exchanges.”

Born in Italy, a land of rich food culture, what types of food suit ‘Il Piatto Parlante’ given its material properties?

Pietro Petrillo:

“The Talking Plate is perfectly suited for dishes that release minimal liquids, both before and after cooking. It is an excellent choice for a variety of courses, including appetizers, first courses, and main dishes. However, it’s best to avoid using it with high-temperature dishes like soups or broths, as these don’t fully showcase its strengths.

I see this product as an ideal way to start a meal, thanks to its versatility and its unique role as a “talking” plate. It can also take the spotlight as the centerpiece of a main course. For example, it pairs beautifully with a plate of porcini mushroom gnocchi or serves as an elegant base for fresh fish carpaccio accompanied by grilled vegetables or a crisp salad. Imagine it presenting a classic dish of spaghetti with fresh cherry tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a dusting of Parmigiano Reggiano. The possibilities are endless—and, of course, don’t forget to finish with a satisfying bread swipe to soak up every last drop!”

What other products for diners could be created using the same materials and, above all, the same concept of fostering “conversation”?

Pietro Petrillo:

“The primary vision is to expand the collection of tableware by introducing a wider variety of sizes and shapes, along with complementary cloches. We aim to preserve a design language that balances simplicity with organic forms for the main serving pieces. Building on this concept, we plan to create additional items such as cutting boards and coasters to elevate and complete the table setting.

Looking ahead to the next Milan Design Week, another exciting initiative involves inviting designers to participate in an open call. This would encourage them to design their own cloche discs to pair with the plates and the eight textures I’ve developed. The outcome would be a curated table exhibition, brought to life in collaboration with professional chefs who will craft the dishes.

This initiative not only seeks to enrich the aesthetic and functional aspects of the “Talking Plate” collection but also to create a shared experience around the table—an event that celebrates the artistry of food and design in unison.”