Those of us who enjoy coffee in the morning are all too familiar with the awful cups that are provided in Commons. I never thought that I would have such a strong opinion about coffee mugs, but the awful experience of drinking out of a coffee mug at Commons prompted this exploration of the cup design. First and foremost, the outward appearance of these mugs fails to meet even the most basic standards. Their design, or lack thereof, leaves much to be desired, lacking the aesthetic appeal that often accompanies the joy of enjoying a hot beverage. Aesthetics may seem trivial, but the overall experience of savoring a hot drink is undeniably enhanced when the vessel itself is visually pleasing. Moreover, the cups feature a design that can best be described as impractical. Due to their shape, they are oddly susceptible to spilling, causing unnecessary inconvenience and often leading to unfortunate coffee stains on one’s clothes. The handles are often too small or odd-shaped, making it uncomfortable to hold the mug securely. This compromises the very essence of enjoying a leisurely cup of coffee, turning it into a precarious balancing act.
Adding to the grievances, the cups carry such a small amount of fluid that by the time the liquid level is at a point conducive to carrying without spillage, there are practically only two sips left. This limitation not only diminishes the enjoyment of the drink but also raises questions about the practicality of these mugs for anyone looking to savor a more substantial cup of coffee. It becomes particularly frustrating when one desires a larger serving or intends to enjoy a hot beverage during a study session or casual conversation. For these reasons, I think that it is a worthwhile investment for consumers to purchase new mugs, enhancing the overall experience for its patrons. Mugs that prioritize aesthetics, practicality, and a more generous liquid capacity would undoubtedly contribute to a more enjoyable coffee-drinking experience at Commons.