31. From Barista to Designer: Hany Ezzat on Crafting Cups that Elevate Coffee

We dive into the world of sensory-driven coffee design with Hany Ezzat, founder of Ni Wares. Hanny shares his journey from his early days making coffee in a Turkish restaurant to the inception of Ni Wares, his company dedicated to designing cups that elevate the sensory experience of coffee drinking. With insights from years as a competitive barista, Hany explains how colors, shapes, and textures of cups can alter our perception of taste, transforming how we experience every sip.Throughout our conversation, Hany offers valuable insights for those entering the competitive coffee scene, stressing commitment, simplicity, and personal accountability as keys to success. He opens up about his belief in personal responsibility and the importance of focusing on one’s journey in the industry. Beyond competitions and coffee sales, Hanny’s focus shifted to innovation and craftsmanship, leading him to create coffee cups that make drinking an immersive experience. He also sheds light on how inspiration from other industries influences his designs and shares his work on a sustainable coffee cultivation project in Fiji.Key Takeaways:Design for Taste: Ni Wares cups are crafted to influence the perception of flavors through colors, shapes, and textures.Competitive Influence: Hany’s background as a competitive barista instilled a deep understanding of simplicity, accountability, and connection, values he brings into his designs.Craftsmanship and Collaboration: Working with local artisans, Ni Wares cups are created to enhance the sensory experience, making every cup unique.Inspired by Other Industries: Hany draws from diverse influences to keep his designs innovative and grounded in craftsmanship.Sustainable Vision: With untapped potential in Fiji, Hany emphasizes community involvement as he embarks on sustainable coffee projects.Explore Hany’s dedication to coffee and sensory innovation with Ni Wares, where artistry meets function in every cup.