Following previous successful exhibition, the Hong Kong Institute of Architects (HKIA) is organising the HKIA Furniture Design Competition again this year. The competition aims to provoke innovation and re-define furniture pieces. It also provides a chance to manufacture the designs of talented architects into a prototype and bring the designs to the public.
This year, the competition eligibility was extended to all HKIA members, including student and associate members, in an effort to encourage young participants and nurture the sense of community responsibility of these architects-to-be. It was worth noted that the winners of this year are all from the younger end of the HKIA family and some are yet to reach their thirties. The entries are a complete rethink of what a table can be like, a new design typology.
In response to the Hong Kong’s compact living environment, this year’s design brief asks for entries to design a multi-function table set with storage that suits the compact living spaces, aiming to bring accessibility and pleasure to the users.
The participants need to balance the bipolar tension of design aesthetics and functional performance of a family furniture. The piece should suit the local condition of congested homes while remaining as a masterpiece of design.
In collaboration with NGOs—Hong Kong Council of Social Service, Concern for Grassroots Livelihood Alliance, Society for Community Organization and St. James’ Settlement—the prototypes will be transferred to under-privileged families for their use after the exhibition, as part of the institute’s manifesto of social responsibilities.
The three winning entries’ prototypes have been manufactured and are exhibited at The City University of Hong Kong from 13 to 21 December 2018. The Award Presentation Ceremony and public lecture will be held on 15 December 2018, 10am to 12.30pm. — Construction+ Online
