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# Puzzling Glassware
Dan Harper's ‘Mug Pie' Hides Handles from Sight

By Katie Cordrey | Published 2009-03-12 | Art & Design
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/puzzling-drinking-cups-dan-harpers-mug-pie-hides-handles-from-sight
References: [inventorspot](http://inventorspot.com/articles/coffee_mugs_refuse_serve_you_mug_pie_24903) & [elsewareinc](http://www.elsewareinc.com/index_elseware.htm)

'Mug Pie' is a set of 6 [individual beverage mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/texture-ware) that appear to have no handles. When the are displayed as an assembled set, or 'mug pie,' the [mug handles](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pixelmug) hidden from view. This is an intentional feature of the mugs. They were inspired by the word â€œrefuse.â€ Since the handles are hidden, they *refuse* to be grasped.

These [functional 12-ounce beverage mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/corcelain) were designed by Dan Harper and are available at Elseware.

**Implications** - Dan Harper's 'Mug Pie' was heavily influenced by the five designers who formed Elsewhere and the word 'refuse.' The mug shapes 'fuse' as well as 'refuse' thanks to their lack of a handle. Very clever, Mr. Harper. Very clever.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 1.5/10
- Popularity: 7% | Activity: 30% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 30% men, 70% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: North America, Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) > [Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/design)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Hidden Handle Designs:** The 'Mug Pie' glassware set with hidden handles presents an opportunity for designers to explore new ways of incorporating handles into everyday objects.
- **Minimalist Beverage Accessories:** The intentional design of 'Mug Pie' mugs, with no visible handles, reflects the growing trend of minimalistic and sleek beverage accessories.
- **Conceptual Tableware Collections:** 'Mug Pie' demonstrates the potential for creating conceptual tableware collections that challenge traditional design norms and add an element of surprise to dining experiences.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Product Design:** Product designers can explore disruptive innovations in glassware design by reimagining how handles are incorporated into beverage accessories.
- **Home Decor:** The minimalist design of 'Mug Pie' mugs aligns with the trend of sleek and modern home decor, creating opportunities for designers to develop complementary products.
- **Hospitality:** The conceptual and unique design of 'Mug Pie' glassware can add a touch of novelty to dining experiences in restaurants and hotels, offering a point of differentiation.

## Related on Trend Hunter

- [Bell-Shaped Coffee Mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mario-mug.md)
- [Utensil Holding Mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/1handmug.md)
- [Uniquely Shaped Drinkware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/heart-doublewall-latte-mugs.md)
- [Festive Tree-Inspired Mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/christmas-tree-mugs.md)
- [Ergonomically Designed Mugs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ergonomically-designed-mug.md)
- [Nesting Gem-Like Drinking Glasses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/upsidedownside-glasses.md)
- [Captivating Tonal Drinking Glassware](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/podio-cup.md)
- [Modular Porcelain Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/corcelain.md)
- [Sustainable Upcycled Glass Cups](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hmm-design.md)
