Trays: Unsung Heroes of the Home

There could be other simple technologies that are more overlooked and under appreciated, but it’s hard to think of one. Trays belong in the pantheon of simple machines, along with the lever, pulley and screw, but somehow Archimedes missed it.

Trays embody one of the principals of luxury: they enable us to more easily enjoy food and drink in settings that aren’t the kitchen or dining room table.

Breakfast on the porch? Bring out the coffee, juice, bacon and pastries on a tray—done! Lunch in the shade of a tree in the backyard? On a tray, complete with lemonade. Drinks on the patio? A tray will carry the two-drink minimum for the evening along with pretzels and a cheese ball. S’mores and whiskey by the campfire? A tray gets it done efficiently and you won’t drop the chocolate in the dark and lose it or spill the whiskey.

DO NOT SPILL THE WHISKEY!

Trays: allies of the hands; steady and stable; useful and versatile.