Behind the design: Our first gaming homegood

Milhouse Ceramic Controller Tray & Santal Candle

Designing a Gaming Essential That Blends Form and Function

At Milhouse, we set out to create more than just another gaming accessory. We wanted to design something that seamlessly fits into a space, elevates a setup, and serves a real purpose. The Ceramic Controller Tray is our first gaming hard good—born from a desire to combine function with an aesthetic that feels intentional, modern, and refined.

The idea was simple–how do we elevate the idea of a gaming candle: controllers are always left lying around—on coffee tables, desks, or anywhere they land after a session. So we wanted to create a dedicated space for them, but not just any storage solution. It had to look as good as it worked. That’s where the combination of candle and tray began. Gaming setups should feel as curated as any other part of a home, and storage and scent plays a role in setting that atmosphere.

From Concept to Prototype

The design process started with a straightforward approach. As a graphic designer by trade, Milhouse co-founder Evan Downey began by sketching the initial form in Adobe Illustrator, using an Xbox controller as the base model. From there, the design moved into 3D, refining proportions, fit, and overall balance. Once the structure felt right, we printed a 3D prototype in Los Angeles to test how different controllers would sit in the tray.

The final form was subtle but effective—a dimpled surface that allowed any controller to nest securely without overcomplicating the design. Simple, functional, and universally compatible.

Refining the Prototypes

Bringing a product from concept to reality requires a deep understanding of both design and material constraints. With the Ceramic Controller Tray, we wanted to ensure that every aspect—from the way it felt in hand to how it interacted with a space—met the highest standards. Along the way, we encountered several key challenges that pushed us to refine and elevate the final product.

 Perfecting the Ceramic Form: The elongated design of the tray introduced natural warping during the kiln-firing process, a common challenge when working with ceramics. To counter this, we optimized the shape, adjusted firing conditions, and worked closely with our production partners to create a more consistent final form while preserving the clean, minimal aesthetic.

Reinforcing Packaging for a Premium Unboxing Experience: A product like this needs to arrive in perfect condition. Our original packaging design didn’t provide enough structural support, leading to damaged samples. We went back to the drawing board, developing a sturdier, more protective box that ensures each tray reaches its new home exactly as intended.

Refining the Surface Finish: A smooth ceramic finish, while visually striking, quickly showed fingerprints and handling marks. To maintain a refined look with minimal upkeep, we transitioned to a sand-faced matte texture, reducing visible smudges and adding a tactile, natural and premium feel to the surface.

Enhancing the Interaction with Hard Surfaces: We wanted the tray to feel substantial, but without the unwanted sound of ceramic meeting hard surfaces. By incorporating a cork base, we achieved a solution that not only protects surfaces but also adds a satisfying weight and stability to the tray’s placement.

The process reinforced our belief in thoughtful design—where every detail, from material choice to final user experience, contributes to a product that seamlessly integrates into the way gamers live and play.

A Refined Final Product

After multiple iterations, adjustments, and refinements, we landed on a final product that delivers on both form and function. The Ceramic Controller Tray is crafted from sand-faced ceramic, offering a lightweight yet durable solution for organizing a gaming space. The cork base provides stability while softening the interaction with surfaces. To complete the experience, the tray ships with a Santal-scented candle, designed to bring a subtle warmth to any space.

This is the first of many gaming hard goods from Milhouse. The process of refining every detail, solving each challenge, and balancing aesthetics with usability has shaped the way we approach product design. As we continue to build, our focus remains the same—creating objects that serve a purpose while elevating the gaming experience.