Knife Blocks

Refined Storage Solutions for the Modern Kitchen

Designed for zyliss, the universal knife block and 8-piece knife block set offer two distinctive solutions for safe and organized knife storage. Combining modern aesthetics with practical functionality, both products incorporate the latest zyliss design language and wheat straw-based materials, bringing a refined and cohesive appearance to the kitchen countertop.

The objective was to update the existing knife block range with two visually distinct products that accommodate different storage needs while sharing a recognizable design identity. Particular attention was given to compact proportions, intuitive handling, stability, and ease of maintenance, ensuring that both designs meet the demands of everyday kitchen use.
Working alongside the zyliss product development team, WAEGLI DESIGN developed the industrial design from initial sketches and concept studies through design refinement and DFM support. By balancing aesthetic appeal, functional requirements, and manufacturing considerations, we created practical, commercially viable solutions that reflect the zyliss brand's positioning and quality standards.

Client

zyliss

Services

Industrial Design
Design For Manufacturing (DFM)

Zyliss universal knife block with four knives inserted into a black flexible-filament insert, featuring a compact dark grey housing on a kitchen countertop.

Person inserting an orange-handled knife into the Zyliss universal knife block, showing its flexible-filament insert and ventilation slots on the rear of the grey housing.

Empty Zyliss universal knife block with a minimalist dark grey housing, oblong shape, and black flexible-filament insert for safely storing kitchen knives.

Overhead view of the Zyliss universal knife block showing its densely packed black flexible-filament insert, with two knives stored beside a cutting board and vegetables.

Universal Knife Block:
Flexible Knife Storage, Designed for Everyday Convenience

The universal knife block combines a compact, understated form with versatile storage for a wide variety of kitchen knives. A dense, flexible filament insert securely accommodates different blade shapes and sizes without predefined slots, allowing users to arrange their knives intuitively according to individual preferences while keeping countertops clutter-free. A stable, non-slip base ensures secure handling, while the space-saving footprint makes efficient use of valuable countertop space.

Designed with hygiene and everyday practicality in mind, the filament insert can be easily removed for thorough cleaning of both the insert and the main housing. Carefully integrated ventilation slots at the rear promote airflow to help reduce trapped moisture, supporting hygienic storage. Their distinctive shape also contributes to the product's visual identity, establishing a recognizable design feature shared with the 8-piece knife block set. Soft transitions, balanced proportions, and the restrained zyliss design language give the universal knife block a refined appearance that blends naturally into a wide range of kitchen environments.

Zyliss universal knife block with a minimalist dark grey housing holding five kitchen knives with colorful handles, displayed on a countertop alongside bread, fresh vegetables, and fruit.

Rear view of the zyliss 8-piece knife block set with five knives, kitchen scissors, a forward-tilted grey housing, and diagonal ventilation slots near the base.

8-piece knife block set:
A Sophisticated Approach to Safe Knife Storage

The 8-piece knife block set offers organized storage with an emphasis on accessibility, protection, and visual refinement. Its angled design provides comfortable access to dedicated slots for the eight-piece zyliss knife set, including scissors, while maintaining a compact countertop footprint. A weighted base and discreet non-slip feet ensure stability and secure handling during everyday use. Ventilation slots serve both a functional purpose and as a recurring design element, visually connecting the 8-piece knife block set with its universal knife block counterpart.

A protective stainless steel top cover adds a distinctive material accent while shielding the wheat straw-based housing from wear caused by repeated knife insertion. Integrated plastic inserts guide and protect the knife edges, combining visual appeal with practical durability. The interplay of materials and carefully defined surfaces reinforces the product's refined character within the zyliss range. Together, these thoughtful details create a sophisticated storage solution that combines lasting functionality with an elegant presence on the kitchen countertop.