Current Issue

CREATIVITY, FUNCTIONALITY &
MARKETABILITY

Design we all recognise, is the all important element in the manufacturing value chain. And, it’s not just about developing a concept or an idea. There’s the need to take into consideration how the final product will look like, how it will be used by the end consumer, and, now so importantly, the rise of social and eco-consciousness in society at large.

Speaking at the Second Ideation Award during MIFF 2011, MIFF Managing Director, Dato Dr Tan Chin Huat said: “The era of creativity has come. Nowadays, many countries are aware that creativity is an essential ingredient in economic development as it generates new products, new markets and new opportunities for wealth creation, the driving force to promote national economic growth. Currently, the furniture industry is becoming more and more competitive; to stay ahead we must actively seek new creative talents for the industry. “

Basically, he hit the nail on the head and with it, the theme for this year’s award, ‘Creating Sustainable Furniture For Singles’ makes sense as this remains closest to the hearts of these young creators.

Across the Causeway, the SFIC organises the annual Furniture Design Award (FDA) as an avenue for designers to express their creativity, and yes, gain recognition in the industry. Next year’s competition (the 19th), is about ‘Love, Think, Design Green’. The focus is based on the concept and execution of sustainable design, reflecting yet again, the rise of social consciousness all around.

TIFF, Thailand’s furniture showcase this year was about ‘Living A Green Life’. Mrs Srirat Rastapana, DEP Director-General noted that: “The global concerns about climate change have driven designers around the world to originate a new concept of furniture design in order to help raise public awareness on global warming. Such a concept has become a new trend in furniture design.” This year’s theme is considered a fitting continuation following the ‘Imagine Green Living’ theme in the previous year.

In Indonesia, IFFINA used its Student Talented Design to display the designs and works of its students, and bridge the communication gap between industry and academic world. The lucky country Australia, has AIFF to unearth emerging furniture designers. This year, its Green category came up with recycled cardboard and reclaimed timber as sustainable materials. Australia’s emerging furniture design talent has many such shows to support the green cause. Upcoming VIVID (Vibrant Visions in Design), a highlight of Furnitex is another, taking place this month in Melbourne.

Other than creativity, functionality and marketability, the entries for a number of furniture design competition in the region has scanned the horizon, looking for new themes, like renewability, efficient use of sustainable materials and low energy use in manufacturing process. As captains of the industry, furniture associations and local bodies are all playing their part in educating designers about the importance of designing, manufacturing and packaging eco-friendly furniture pieces that future generations can appreciate and enjoy – without feeling guilty.

The calls to go green and stay green continue to be underscored proudly in the various furniture design events and exhibitions around the region. If Kermit were here, he would be proud to be associated with these designers as they answer the calls from our industry leading players.

Dr Casey Loo
Publisher & Editor-In-Chielf