Coffee Lids: Peel, Pinch, Pucker, Puncture is a beautifully-shot new book showcasing the world's largest collection of plastic coffee lids.
Designer Louise Harpman and Scott Specht co-own the collection:
While the individually patented treasures usually live in a closet, protected in acid-free boxes, they have also been featured in the Smithsonian's "FOOD: Transforming the American Table 1950-2000" exhibit as examples of innovation that enabled American on-the-go dining culture. The lids have also made cameos at the Morgan Library and MMuseumm.
In this video, Harpman outlines the practical challenges various coffee lid designers have attempted to address—and shows off her full collection, highlighting a few favorite and unusual models. Design is everywhere, she insists, even in the everyday objects we take for granted.
When Gen Z's grandkids look at 2018-era selfies with single-use cups from Starbucks, Jamba Juice and fast food joints, they are going to shake their head in disbelief that humans could be so irresponsible. In the meantime, you can preview the book here:
