A’ Design Award 2024, one of the world’s most extensive and widely recognized design awards, has announced its winners. Among nearly 10,250 entries from 114 countries/regions worldwide, the work “U-comfort”, designed by the team of Prof. Yang Jian and Prof. Wang Chao from the Department of Product Design of the School of Design, stood out and secured the Bronze Award.

The design inspiration behind “U-comfort” originated from a progressive generative algorithm based on bi-directional topology calculation, harmonizing aesthetics, mechanics and materials. It is not merely a piece of furniture but an embodiment of both the inheritance and innovation of Huaiyuan rattan weaving, a national intangible cultural heritage. Through such design, we can not only appreciate the artistic beauty of rattan weaving but also feel its robust structure and excellent materials. At the same time, the creation of this rattan chair aims to address the lack of successors to the Huaiyuan rattan weaving craft, revitalizing this traditional handicraft in modern society. 

A' Design Award and Competition is one of the World’s largest, most prestigious and influential design accolades, and a grand event to honour the highest achievements in design. Accredited by the Bureau of European Design Associations (BEDA) and the International Council of Graphic Design Associations (Icograda), and organized by OMC Design Studios in Italy, it is a globally leading international annual design competition. As a member of the International Council of Societies of Industrial Design (ICSID), Icograda, and Association for Industrial Design (ADI), the Competition enjoys high esteem in the field of design and is often referred to as the “Oscars of the European design world”. The A’ Design Award aims to commemorate the most exceptional designers worldwide across different categories and in various creative fields. Entries are peer-reviewed and anonymously evaluated by a prestigious jury comprising experienced scholars, prominent journalists, and professionals.