Sep 30

Award-Winning Sports Complex boasts a Badminton Racquet-inspired Grid Roof with Solar Panels

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In a stunning fusion of sport, sustainability, and striking design, MVRDV and Huayi Design have won the competition to create The Sweet Spot, a world-class sports complex in Shenzhen’s Pingshan district. Far from your average facility, this vibrant complex will house China’s National Badminton Training Centre, a public fitness hub, and a variety of commercial spaces. With an iconic rooftop shaped like the head of a badminton racket, The Sweet Spot is more than a nod to badminton, it’s a full-blown celebration of the sport and an architectural marvel in its own right.

Designer: MVRDV and Huayi Design

The Sweet Spot makes a bold statement before you even set foot inside. Towering over the complex is a 240-meter-long roof that mirrors the head of a badminton racket, complete with a grid-like structure resembling racket strings. This isn’t just for show: the roof is equipped with solar panels, generating clean energy for the complex. It’s a masterstroke of design that combines sustainability with visual impact, a perfect reflection of MVRDV’s commitment to eco-friendly architecture.

Jacob van Rijs, founding partner at MVRDV, puts it best: “The Sweet Spot isn’t just about creating a space for sport, it’s about celebrating badminton in a way that’s fun, accessible, and environmentally conscious. We’re thrilled to have hit the winning shot with this design!”

At the heart of the complex is a dynamic space where athletes and the public seamlessly coexist. The main building, which houses a professional arena and training courts, is linked by a T-shaped promenade that invites everyone to explore the facilities. This promenade leads to a central plaza, aptly named the sweet spot, designed to reflect the perfect hitting point on a badminton racket. It’s a playful yet fitting metaphor for the spirit of the project.

For athletes, privacy is a priority. Beneath the public promenade lies a lower ground level that connects the training spaces and arena, allowing athletes to move discreetly without mingling with the public. It’s a clever solution that balances public engagement with the specialized needs of professional sportspeople.

But the badminton-themed surprises don’t stop there. To the south of the arena, a striking 23-story tower tapers like a shuttlecock, housing hotel rooms on the lower levels and short-stay apartments for athletes above. This iconic tower is more than just an architectural statement, it’s designed with athletes’ privacy and convenience in mind, offering direct access to the private lower ground floor.

On the other side of the complex, two smaller commercial buildings echo the racket shape of the main arena, tying the whole design together with visual harmony. These buildings will serve visitors, creating a lively and cohesive atmosphere.

The sweet spot isn’t just a haven for professional athletes, it’s a gift to the people of Shenzhen. The park surrounding the complex features courts for badminton, basketball, and football, open to everyone from casual players to serious competitors. The west side boasts a massive stepped tribune where spectators can watch matches or just take in the surroundings, making the park as much a social hub as a sports venue.

A separate National Fitness Centre offers even more opportunities for exercise, housing additional badminton and tennis courts as well as a swimming center. With so many options, it’s clear that this complex isn’t just about elite athletes, it’s designed to foster a love for sport across the entire community.

One of the most exciting aspects of The Sweet Spot is how it extends beyond its original scope. MVRDV saw potential in the space beneath the nearby Pingyan Expressway flyover, transforming what could have been a forgotten stretch of land into a vibrant green corridor. Complete with a skate park, basketball courts, a running track, and a playground, this extension seamlessly connects The Sweet Spot to the larger Pingshan community, making the complex an even more integral part of the city.

Finally, The Sweet Spot relies on clean energy to operate, pointing at a strong sustainability bid. The solar-powered roof generates much of the energy needed to run the complex, and the design as a whole prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. By integrating photovoltaic panels into the design of the badminton-racket-shaped roof, MVRDV has ensured that this isn’t just a sports complex of the present, it’s one being built for the future.

MVRDV and Huayi Design’s The Sweet Spot is an experience. With its playful badminton theme, athlete-first design, community-centered amenities, and a strong commitment to sustainability, this complex redefines what a sports facility can be. It’s a bold, energetic, and forward-thinking project that will leave a lasting impact on Shenzhen and beyond.

The post Award-Winning Sports Complex boasts a Badminton Racquet-inspired Grid Roof with Solar Panels first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 30

How Dave Kindig’s 1953 Corvette ‘TwelveAir’ Sets a New Standard for Custom Car Design

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Dave Kindig and his team at Kindig-It Design have once again redefined custom car building with their latest creation, the 1953 Corvette “TwelveAir.” Recently crowned the Ridler Award winner at the 2024 Detroit Autorama, this Corvette is more than a reimagination—it’s a ground-up custom build that transforms a classic icon using modern design and cutting-edge technology. Every detail, from the engine bay to the leather-wrapped interior, reflects a perfect balance of craftsmanship and innovation.

Designer: Dave Kindig + Kindig-It Design

Starting Fresh with Every Part

At first glance, the TwelveAir may evoke memories of the iconic 1953 Corvette, but no original parts from that car were used. Kindig’s team built every inch of this vehicle by hand or fabricated it specifically for this project. Beginning with hand-drawn sketches and quickly moving into CAD modeling, the car’s design took shape with precision and a creative vision.

What makes this build even more remarkable is the five-year process during which Kindig’s team kept everything hidden from view. They built a special room around their CNC machines to maintain secrecy, ensuring no one saw the car before its debut at the Autorama.

The car was constructed from scratch, including the suspension system and the engine bay—two areas where performance and design came together perfectly. The hand-formed aluminum body nods to the past, while modern tools like CAD and 3D printing allowed the team to experiment and refine every element before finalizing the build. In doing so, the TwelveAir became an utterly bespoke creation designed to push the boundaries of custom automotive engineering.

Craftsmanship Enhanced by Technology

The TwelveAir’s striking design is a product of traditional craftsmanship and technological innovation. CAD software and 3D printing allowed Kindig’s team to prototype critical parts like the engine components and suspension arms before they moved into final fabrication. These tools made testing for fit and function easier, reducing wasted materials and allowing more time to focus on the car’s performance and aesthetics.

Take the engine bay, for example. The polished chrome engine covers, accented with sleek, scooped air intakes, form a visually stunning centerpiece. The engraved “TwelveAir” script on the engine block, combined with perfectly machined parts, reflects a level of precision only achievable through the blend of advanced tech and craftsmanship. The engine bay doesn’t overwhelm with excess—it strikes a balance between mechanical prowess and refined design, creating a lasting visual impact.

The suspension system is another perfect example of design merging with function. Inspired by the precision seen in Formula 1 and IndyCar designs, the suspension features a single horizontally mounted spring, which keeps the car’s stance low and aggressive while ensuring peak performance. The polished chrome suspension components hide beneath sleek, purpose-built panels, preserving the clean and minimal appearance while enhancing the car’s rigidity. This results in a visually appealing vehicle optimized for real-world performance.

 

The Art of Form and Function

The TwelveAir’s exterior grabs attention, but the engineering beneath the surface is just as impressive. Hidden within the car’s structure, the suspension system allows the bold body lines to remain uninterrupted. This design choice wasn’t merely about aesthetics—it also improves the car’s overall handling and strength, making it capable of harnessing the 650-horsepower V-12 engine.

Speaking of the engine, it’s a V-12 LS-based powerhouse sourced from Race Cast Engineering. With 650 horsepower, it’s more than capable of delivering high performance, especially given the car’s lightweight aluminum body. What’s remarkable is how the engine’s visual presence complements the entire design. The sleek covers and exposed components don’t dominate the build but instead, harmonize with the car’s overall aesthetic. The “TwelveAir” logo engraved on the engine block acts as a subtle but effective nod to the car’s bespoke nature.

Each element in the car works in concert. The balance of performance and aesthetics is key. Everything from the engine placement to the suspension components reinforces this philosophy, ensuring the car goes beyond being a showpiece—this is a fully functional, high-performance machine.

A Luxury-Driven Interior

Inside the TwelveAir, the attention to detail is even more apparent. The interior, wrapped in rich sienna-colored leather, exudes sophistication and craftsmanship. The thin-spoked steering wheel, accented by chrome, offers a perfect blend of retro influence and modern design. The dashboard maintains a clean, minimalistic layout with smooth curves, polished metal finishes, and understated dials that don’t distract from the car’s interior flow.

The chrome accents, carefully placed throughout the cabin, contrast beautifully with the soft leather, creating a tactile sense of luxury without overwhelming the senses. The balance between warmth and sharpness in the materials elevates the car’s design, making the interior feel futuristic and timeless.

The console and gear lever are simple, elegant, and integrated seamlessly into the overall design. Chrome touches along the gear shift area provide a subtle yet striking contrast against the leather. Every aspect of the interior has been designed with precision and thought, ensuring that form doesn’t overtake function.

The door panels, with smooth orange leather seamlessly flowing from the exterior, showcase how carefully the designers considered every transition in the car. Even the most minor details, like the chrome trim on the door, are purposeful and consistent with the overall aesthetic. Everything from the color choices to the material feels bespoke and intentionally crafted.

A Bold Color Palette

One of TwelveAir’s most striking features is its bold use of color. The deep metallic red of the exterior grabs attention instantly. The rich and reflective paint enhances the car’s dramatic shape, creating a sense of movement even when the car is stationary. Chrome accents break up the color, providing sharp contrasts that highlight the body’s sleek lines.

The interior’s orange leather feels both bold and luxurious. Its warmth contrasts sharply with the deep red exterior, creating a cohesive visual experience that flows naturally from outside to inside. The orange, rather than being overpowering, complements the modern design language, while the chrome details and high-polished finishes add refinement.

Pushing Custom Car Design Forward

Dave Kindig’s 1953 Corvette “TwelveAir” represents a new level of what’s possible in custom car design. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern technology, Kindig has created a car that transforms the classic Corvette into something forward-thinking. Every inch of the TwelveAir reflects thoughtful design, precise engineering, and attention to detail that few custom builds achieve.

This car is a complete transformation, built from the ground up. Using tools like CAD modeling and 3D printing alongside traditional hand-forming techniques, Kindig shows how the future of custom cars blends artistry and technology. The TwelveAir sets a new standard for Corvettes and the entire custom car industry, perfectly balancing function and design.

With the TwelveAir, Kindig has crafted a vision of the future of automotive design. It’s a bold, beautiful, and groundbreaking example of what’s possible when you refuse to be limited by tradition.

The post How Dave Kindig’s 1953 Corvette ‘TwelveAir’ Sets a New Standard for Custom Car Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 30

Neri Oxman launches New York practice in Foster + Partners-designed studio

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Neri Oxman lab

Designer Neri Oxman has unveiled a studio in Midtown Manhattan designed with architecture studio Foster + Partners that houses a production workshop and wet lab.

Oxman unveiled the lab for her studio, Oxman, in a building originally designed by American architect Albert Kahn as a car manufacturing plant and renovated by Rafael Viñoly Architects to house shops and offices.

Neri Oxman lab
Neri Oxman has unveiled a studio designed with British architecture studio Foster + Partners

Oxman’s team worked with Foster + Partners to design a two-storey studio on the 9th and 10th floors of the building.

The 36,000-square-foot space (3,345 square metres) is characterised by white-painted walls and columns, and is largely open – most of the dividing walls are glass. The lower floor features design offices, a library, kitchen and lounge, while the upper floor holds the dry lab and production studio.

“Every detail of this project has been developed in conjunction with Neri and her team, reflecting Oxman’s holistic approach that spans scales and disciplines,” said Foster + Partners founder Norman Foster.

“Both levels of the new studio have their own distinctive characters and contain a range of highly adaptable workspaces and labs, which enhance creativity and will become an epicenter of world-leading research.”

Lobby
The studio is located in a building designed by Louis Kahn and renovated by Rafael Viñoly Architects

Oxman said that the design of the studio was meant to be open, flexible and technical to enable collaboration between the designers, scientists, architects and other employees who work there.

She said that the space was meant to facilitate the actualisation of her The Krebs Cycle of Creativity – a rendition of German-British scientist Hans Krebs’ diagram depicting stages of energy generation in organisms.

Neri Oxman lab
It is two storeys and contains a wet lab and central glass staircase

“The dream for this building, this lab was to embody the diagram,” said Oxman.

“The lab looks clean and nice on the inside, but inside, packed in the ceiling and in the ground, are conduits that are embedded for insert allowing access to data, to power, to gasses that feed the workstations – there’s 70 miles worth of Ethernet and an optical cable for cloud computing.”

Neri Oxman lab
It is characterised by white-painted walls, glass dividers and wooden furniture

The entrance space for the studio is a central atrium lit from above by panel lights in the ceiling that conceal the complex mechanical systems, including over 100 miles of colour-coded cabling to enable high-speed data.

One side of the first floor holds the design studio where rows of custom-produced wooden desks run perpendicular to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows that overlook the high-rises of Hell’s Kitchen. A garden terrace with walkways and plants runs outside the windows.

Neri Oxman lab
Conduits in the walls allow for access to data, power and gasses according to Oxman

Opposite the windows run a series of private offices, completely lined in glass, with vitrines featuring samples of Oxman’s work, serving as visible dividers between each wood-backed space.

On the other side of the first level, past a central stair, is a long conference table used for displaying work and models, and behind that a series of enclosed spaces for respite.

Neri Oxman lab
It is meant to foster collaboration between employees

The floating staircase was custom-designed for the space and has a single stringer at the top of the space and interlocking glass panels.

The second storey holds a production workshop with robotic arms and 3D printers to fabricate bioplastic shoes.

Desk and chairs
The interior is largely open

Across an atrium is a wet lab with custom Krion benches. Opposite the windows are a series of “capsules” that are heavily mechanized and can be used to simulate natural environments.

According to Oxman, the studio is currently working on three primary areas: urban design and architecture, product design and molecular biology.

Neri Oxman lab
The space was meant to facilitate the actualisation of The Krebs Cycle of Creativity

One of the biology products is a device called ALEF, which uses sensors to monitor biodiversity by training it to intake biogenic volatile organic compounds – described as “smells” – to provide data about environments.

“From a biodiversity chamber designed to study and heal a struggling ecosystem to a ‘scent computer’ designed to concoct a functionalized fragrance with no harm to the environment, we seek to advance our understanding of the natural world while offering alternatives to methods of designing molecular goods that rely on monocropping,” said Oxman.

“In fact, one of the most ecologically biodiverse environments in New York City currently thrives in our lab.”

The opening of the studio corresponds with the announcement of this endeavor, as well as the bioplastic shoes and a series of modelling systems for urban design based on what Oxman calls “ecological programming” – AI-driven modelling programs used to make planning decisions to optimise for nonhuman, as well as human, life.

“The Lab’s organizational ‘parti sketch’ perfectly mirrors the organizational and operational logic of the company, enabling tight physical and visual connectivity across zones dedicated to hardware, software, and wetware design,” said Oxman. “In other words, one can design, build, and deploy a bioreactor in a matter of hours.”

“We are a design and innovation company,” she said. “We operate across scales, across disciplines and application domains, to target and to heal three broken industries.”

Neri Oxman lab
The opening corresponds with a biology product called ALEF

Oxman, who is a former tenured professor at MIT and led The Mediated Matter Research Group, is known for her experiments in novel materials for construction such as melanin and silk.

Earlier this year Oxman was caught up in an academic plagiarism row with Business Insider reporting that her dissertation was “marred by plagiarism”. She responded to allegations in a statement on X, formerly Twitter, saying she “omitted quotation marks for certain work that I used”.

The photography is by Nicholas Calcott

Project credits: 

Collaborators: Foster + Partners, Adamson Associates Architects, Sciame Homes
Consultants: Benchmark Woodworking, Cosentini Associates, Front Inc., Hollander Design, Jacobs Associates, Pentagram, Percival Scientific, Inc., Persak & Wurmfeld, Shen Milsom & Wilke, LLC, Silman, Spiralis, Syzygy 3, Inc., Tillotson & Associates, TKO Project Management

The post Neri Oxman launches New York practice in Foster + Partners-designed studio appeared first on Dezeen.

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Sep 30

Twelve design projects by students at Hong Kong Design Institute

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A photograph of a person wearing multiple circular shaped garments in tones of grey and black, against a backdrop of the same colours.

Dezeen School Shows:  a restaurant that doubles as a shelter for the homeless and is built using discarded bamboo is included in Dezeen’s latest school show by students at Hong Kong Design Institute.

Also included is a pavilion for bird watching designed using AI and a fashion collection inspired by Buddhism.

Hong Kong Design Institute

Institution: Hong Kong Design Institute
Courses: Higher Diploma in Fashion Design, Higher Diploma in Fashion Media Design, Higher Diploma in Fashion Image Design, Higher Diploma in Visual Arts and Culture, Higher Diploma in Illustration, Higher Diploma in Visual Communication, Higher Diploma in Architectural Design, Higher Diploma in Design for Event, exhibition and Performance, Higher Diploma in Interior Design, Higher Diploma in Animation and Visual Effects, Higher Diploma in Arts Technology and Higher Diploma in Film, Television and Photography
Tutors: Kentaro Nagano, Ken Lee, Sing Cheong, Popo Leung, Carmen Kwan, Shum Yin Ting, Lee Chi Kin, Kubota Masaharu, Douglas Ning, Andy Ho, Chow Kar Hoo, Cary Tang, Terence Luk, Alan Lau, Stephen Parke, Kyle Wu, Joanne Lau, Billy Chan, Ken Wong and Kaman Tsang

School statement:

“Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), as one of the member institutions under the VTC Group, is one of the most influential design institutions in Hong Kong.

“It provides high-quality education to cultivate knowledge and professionalism, nurturing design talents to support Hong Kong’s creative industry development.

“With years of experience in design education, HKDI brings together the strengths of its design departments – architecture, interior and product design, communication design, digital media and fashion and image design – to provide over 20 full-time design programmes, preparing students for work-readiness with socially conscious solutions to meet the demand of the 21st century workplace.”

A series of visualisations of a birdwatching centre, in tones of white, blue, beige and brown.

Pure Drape by Ching Yau Ngai

“Nam Kok Tsui is an excellent place for birdwatching in Hong Kong.

“This project used AI technology to assist in concept design the birdwatching haven, enabling architects to create a safe birdwatching space while exploring the coexistence between architecture and the environment.

“A white cloth rests upon the rugged rocks; these white cloths turn into roads, taking you to places you wouldn’t otherwise go with your feet alone.

“Pavilion and nature coexist in perfect harmony, located along the peaceful coastline.”

Student: Ching Yau Ngai
Course: HD in Architectural Design
Tutor: Ken Lee
Email: alexching.archi[at]gmail.com

A series of three visualisations of a fair, in multiple colours of red, blue, yellow and white.

P.H.C. by Pui Fei Ho

“I hope that through this event, more people will understand the plight of stray animals and help them, whilst raising funds for the Saa charity organisation and attracting potential adopters and donors.

“I also hope that this event can help pet owners and their pets in Hong Kong create an enjoyable and unique pet carnival, providing them with a place to play with their pets.

“In addition, I also want to promote a new way of raising pets through this event, providing electronic pet-raising applications for more people who want to raise animals but do not have the necessary conditions.”

Students: Pui Fei Ho
Course: HD in design for event, exhibition and performance
Tutor: Sing Cheong
Email: joh919254[at]gmail.com

Friendship by Chan Tsz Ching Tania, Lai Cho Yiu, So Yuen To, Leung Yan Ki, Tong Lok Yi, Ng Kei Yiu, Chan Ho Yan, Chan Chi Sum and Isabel Lam Hiu Tung

“Friendship is an animation about a tea restaurant owner’s daughter, Haru, who befriends a stray dog, CoCo.”

Students: Chan Tsz Ching Tania, Lai Cho Yiu, So Yuen To, Leung Yan Ki, Tong Lok Yi, Ng Kei Yiu, Chan Ho Yan, Chan Chi Sum and Isabel Lam Hiu Tung
Course: HD in Animation and Visual Effects
Tutors: Shum Yin Ting
Emails: taniachantc723[at]gmail.com, percyso0721[at]gmail.com, 2002yoyolai[at]gmail.com, leungzoey11[at]gmail.com, isa.lnlwww[at]gmail.com, kyiu0604[at]gmail.com, fen1463731824[at]gmail.com, isabelchan30[at]gmail.com and katielam1122[at]gmail.com

A visualisation of a green creature sat next to a child, with warm hues of brown over the image.

Monsters. Escape by Ho Tsz Yiu

“Lang Yuet was curious and secretly took one of the copper coins from his monster friend Ahmu’s collection, intending to take it secretly to an antique shop to inquire about its value.

“After an exciting chase with Ahmu, he finally arrived at the antique shop.

“However, it turned out to be a worthless copper coin after being checked by the antique shop owner.

“Lang Yuet felt guilty because the whole incident was caused by his action.

“In the end, the protagonist bought potato chips, and they made up with each other with the help of potato chips.”

Student: Ho Tsz Yiu
Course: HD in Arts Technology
Tutors: Lee Chi Kin and Kubota Masaharu
Email: wallis.shelter[at]gmail.com

A series of three images. The first shows a person embraced by a person with blue skin, against a red background, the second a person holding up a silver lantern against a red backdrop, and the third a person holding a small red object to their face.

Dark Fairytale by Chan Ho Kuen

“Grimm’s fairy tales bring people happiness, nurture their desire for knowledge and enhance their understanding of justice and evil, kindness and cruelty, honesty and hypocrisy, hard work and laziness.​

“In fact, fairy tales in history have been dark from the beginning; they are rooted in the oral tradition of the people.

“In their early days, they contained elements that were not suitable for children such as blood, murder, violence and sex.

“Under the double influence of the brothers grimm and Disney, fairy tales began to lose their dark undertones.​”

Student: Chan Ho Kuen
Course: HD in Film, Television and Photography
Tutor: Douglas Ning
Email: hokuennn@gmail.com

A series of three photographs; the first shows a person holding a television displaying a pink handbag against an orange backdrop and green floor, the second shows a person wearing a pink outfit, holding a black handbag on a beach, and the third shows a person reading, sat in a deckchair on a beach, with a green handbag hanging off the back of it.

Revive – Reclaim – Rejuvenate by Chan Yau Chuen, Gurung Josani, Lam Cheuk Fung Keith, Lam Hoi Pang, Shum Suet Kiu and Wen Yawen

“Physical and mental wellbeing has been gradually eroded by the modern world.

“As opposed to the past, women are taking good care of their bodies, minds and society.

“The trend of stay-at-home girls is increasing in modern times due to exhaustion from work.

“Losing the pursuit of relaxing, resting and taking care of the body and mind.”

Students: Chan Yau Chuen, Gurung Josani, Lam Cheuk Fung Keith, Lam Hoi Pang, Shum Suet Kiu and Wen Yawen
Course: HD in Fashion Image Design
Tutors: Stephen Parke and Kyle Wu
Emails: jennychan0227[at]gmail.com, josanigurung[at]gmail.com, funggor115[at]gmail.com, lamhoipang010206[at]gmail.com, sukishum03[at]gmail.com and tobeyonewen[at]gmail.com

A photograph of a person modelling clothes in tones of grey and black, against a background that depicts stoneware falling, in tones of blue and brown.

Nothing Lasts Forever by Yung Tsz Tsun

“Amidst the ebb and flow of life, we realise the melancholic reality: ‘nothing lasts forever’.

“It reminds us of the fleeting nature of relationships and memories, yet, within the sorrow of impermanence, it teaches us to cherish every moment, as in temporariness lies the beauty of life’s ever-changing tapestry.”

Student: Yung Tsz Tsun
Course: HD in Fashion Design
Tutor: Joanne Lau
Email: trevyung603[at]gmail.com

A series of three images, one displaying two cards in tones of pink and yellow, another displaying three phones and the last showing three screens.

Originated by Chu Man Yi

“Sex education remains a topic surrounded by stigmas and taboos in Hong Kong society.

“As a result, teenagers often receive incomplete or inaccurate information from unreliable sources, which can lead to misconceptions, risky behaviours and negative consequences.”

Student: Chu Man Yi
Course: HD in Visual Communication
Tutor: Billy Chan
Email: jessicachu0623[at]gmail.com

A photograph of a collection of cards in tones of blue, against a beige background, alongside two images in tones of purple, green and red.

The Light by Au Wai Lok

“Hong Kong’s hectic lifestyle, intense schedules and rising student suicides have created deep concern.

“Neglectful parenting exacerbates challenges for youth.

“This has inspired a narrative game to promote mutual support and meaningful family connections, offering a thoughtful perspective on nurturing relationships.”

Student: Au Wai Lok
Course: HD in Illustration
Tutor: Ken Wong
Email: cgh16018[at]gmail.com

A series of three photographs; the first displays a sculptural piece in tones of brown, with silver metal beams on it and floral details. The second displays the same sculptures, side by side, and the third shows a close up photograph of the floral details.

Eternal by Tang Wai Shan

“As a student deeply passionate about the refined craftsmanship and the legacy of traditional intangible cultural heritage, I am committed to preserving and revitalising our cultural heritage.

“By weaving together diverse elements of intangible cultural heritage and infusing Eastern aesthetics into contemporary art forms, I aspire to not only safeguard our cultural legacy but also to share it more broadly.”

Student: Tang Wai Shan
Course: HD in Visual Arts and Culture
Tutor: Kaman Tsang
Email: sansan1182347494[at]gmail.com

A series of three photographs of a person wearing multiple circular shaped garments in tones of grey and black, against a backdrop of the same colours.

Void by Hung Cho Hei and Ng Tsz Yan

“The void is a state that transcends the boundaries of matter and our conceptual limitations.

“It is seen as infinite and boundless, representing the infinity and interconnectedness of the universe.

“Everything in the universe shares the same origin, highlighting the unity of the cosmos.

“This principle implies that every substance in the universe shares the same essence, demonstrating the principle of ‘one is all, all is one.’

“Moreover, the concept of emptiness is also recorded in the Tao Te Ching and Buddhism, so we will pay attention to these parts when collecting data.”

Students: Hung Cho Hei and Ng Tsz Yan
Course: HD in Fashion Image Design
Tutors: Andy Ho, Chow Kar Hoo, Cary Tang, Terence Luk and Alan Lau
Emails: joehung20021223[at]gmail.com and ngtszyan987[at]gmail.com

A montage of visualisations of a restaurant that doubles as a homeless shelter, in tones of brown, grey, blue and green. In one of the images, people are seen sat eating at a table.

Urban Oasis-Restaurant and Homeless Domitory by Chan Chi Ho

“Hong Kong’s dazzling skyline masks a stark wealth gap; while the affluent reside in luxurious high-rises, many struggle to make ends meet, forced into substandard living conditions.

“This disparity is further exacerbated by the growing number of homeless individuals, known as street sleepers.

“Despite the city’s economic prosperity, the high cost of living, low wages and a lack of affordable housing leave many unable to afford basic necessities.

“This urban oasis, a restaurant that doubles as a sanctuary for the homeless, offers both employment and housing.

“In Hong Kong, discarded engineering bamboo finds new life after recycling, much like the homeless who, despite societal neglect, can find renewed hope with a helping hand.”

Student: Chan Chi Ho
Course: HD in Interior Design
Tutors: Carmen Kwan
Email: xavierchan9538[at]gmail.com

Partnership content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Hong Kong Design Institute. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.

The post Twelve design projects by students at Hong Kong Design Institute appeared first on Dezeen.

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Sep 30

Beam x Crocs gives a punk rock jacket to your classic clogs

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I’ve said before that I’m not the biggest fan of Crocs, at least design-wise. But whenever they collaborate with another brand, I become more interested, especially if that other brand is something that I already admired. Japanese brand Beam has been on my radar as the fashion brand comes out with unique designs, although I probably would not wear them. This collaboration with Crocs is something I may actually wear. Well, if it gets restocked.

Designer: Beam x Crocs

The Beams x Crocs takes the Classic Clog that most people have grown to love and put on a punk rock jacket on it. So instead of the usual hole-y clogs, you get a black PU leather jacket complete with zippers, giving it a cooler and more bad-ass look. The clogs are still light of course despite its punk-y look. It is also water-friendly and buoyant, complete with ventilation ports and breathability despite not seeing the usual Crocs holes.

You have two “pockets”, a buttoned-down one and a zip-up one. The zipper is off-center and has small silver buttons so you can keep the “collar” folded over. To complete the punk rock look, you can unzip the jacket and you’ll see the silver spiked Jibbitz embedded in there. But if you want your own Jibbitz to add to it, you can still customize it.

Even though it doesn’t totally look like your usual clogs, it still has the “Iconic Crocs Comfort” and has 360-degree comfort. Unfortunately, it seems to be sold out for now, because it is that cool. Let’s see if we’ll eventually get our hands on a pair.

The post Beam x Crocs gives a punk rock jacket to your classic clogs first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 30

Do People Really Want Touch-Capacitive Human-Machine Interface Designs?

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I’m trying not to write about negative things on here (you should see the things in my in-box), but I really dislike this new speculative HMI design called Pulsar. It’s billed as a “Plastronics” system, which the developer defines as an “ultra-thin smart interface for interacting with the new generation of cars.”

I believe I’d find using it deeply dissatisfying. See the video below and judge for yourself.

The Eurecat technology centre has developed a smart plastic surface just 3 millimetres thick which has an interface that allows users to interact and communicate with a machine, software or intuitive system with built-in LED lighting and capacitive sensors which is expected to be embedded in the central electronic control system of the new generation of cars.

“The need for digital transformation and the growing importance of design, integration, personalisation and standing out from the competition means the industry is constantly evolving and developing highly innovative products and services,” says David Pardos, Head of Business Development in Eurecat’s Mobility team. “By way of example, functional surfaces with haptic response activation featuring tactile sensations are gaining ground.”

Are they gaining ground, and if so, why? Is this solving an end-user’s problem, or a manufacturer’s? Do people actually enjoy running their fingertips across plastic surfaces in vague swiping motions? When did we decide this was better than interacting with controls that actually provide tactile feedback?

This is technology for technology’s sake. If I rented a car that had this for an interface, I’d exchange the car for another.

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Sep 30

This Object by Unnecessary Design Studio Harvests Burrito Waste for Tacos

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Here’s an amusing project by Unnecessary Design Studio, a/k/a Matty Benedetto. Who knew, when CAD and 3D printing were invented, that they’d one day allow such creations as the Burrito Bumper:

I’m kind of surprised he’s not selling these.

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Sep 30

Bamboo drone explores a more sustainable way to fly and deliver things

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Some see them as annoyances and others consider them as privacy and security risks. That said, flying drones, just like their quadruped terrestrial counterparts, will inevitably be a part of our near future. That does mean there will be more mass-produced drones, more than what we already have today, and the materials used to make them aren’t always accessible or sustainable. But just as plastic is being replaced in other design industries, there’s also an opportunity to test other materials that are just as suitable for these flying robots. One experiment does exactly that, and it chooses a rather unexpected option that’s much loved in the design industry: wood.

Designer: Deepak Dadheech

Wood is not something you’d immediately associate with electronics, let alone robotics, but it is finding its way to more appliances and gadgets. In those cases, the material is prized for its sustainability and aesthetics, the latter of which isn’t exactly a priority among unmanned aerial vehicles or UAVs like drones. That said, not all wood is created equal, and one particular type could very well be suitable for the demands of a drone.

Bamboo, in particular, is known for being lightweight yet also durable, especially when it comes to its tensile strength. Unlike hardwood, which could splinter and break on impact, bamboo can absorb a bit more strength. It’s also in high supply or easily renewable, unlike other trees that take a longer time to mature. Because of these properties, it could make for a good substitute for both plastic and carbon fiber, as the Bamboo hexacopter drone demonstrates.

Of course, the whole drone isn’t made of bamboo. In addition to the circuitry and brushless motors, the propellers are still made from plastic. Only the main frame, legs, and arms use bamboo, which is the largest use of plastic or carbon fiber in drones anyway. For only around $12 worth of bamboo, you can have a drone that weighs only 350g, half that of typical plastic builds.

The question, however, is whether such a strategy will actually be effective or if it will have too many compromises for the sake of sustainability. The Bamboo Drone does fly indeed and it can, in theory, carry light payloads like tools, emergency supplies, or scientific instruments. How it will fair against strong winds and light rain has yet to be tested, and that will really determine how suitable bamboo will be for a fleet of drones.

The post Bamboo drone explores a more sustainable way to fly and deliver things first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 30

Biomega's New BER E-bike Targets the US Commuter Market

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Like many people in Copenhagen, Danish designer Jens Martin Skibsted is a bicycle enthusiast. In fact, “enthusiast” is quite an understatement, as in addition to his day job as VP Foresight & Mobility at the strategy, design and technology consulting firm Manyone, he is also the founder and designer at Biomega, a Danish design brand focused on making bicycles capable of replacing cars in urban environments.

His latest project is the BER, a new electric bicycle that includes many features designed specifically for the US urban/commuter market. The frame is made from lightweight aluminum tubing, with front and rear safety lights integrated in the handlebar and seat post respectively. The head tube charging port is easy to access and use, and the design features a smooth, quiet and durable carbon fiber belt drive, which helps reduce maintenance costs.

The elegant design uses the same size tubing for the top and down tubes, avoiding the heavy look in most e-bikes with oversized down tubes. The state-of-the-art UL certified motor and batteries, along with the minimal Scandinavian design result in a bike, with batteries, weighing less than 16KG. This light weight helps give the bike an impressive 70 mile range, which is more than double the range capacity from Biomega’s earlier bikes.

The bike will retail for $2,500 when it is available in 2025, and the first 500 purchasers through the Prelaunch campaign can order it for only $2,000. In addition, anyone making an early order will be entered to win a week-long, all expense paid trip for two to Copenhagen during the summer of 2025, to experience Danish bike culture first-hand. More info, specs and the pre-order form can be found on their launch page.

In many parts of the world bikes are used as viable commuting vehicles. With the BER Skibsted hopes to bring that mindset to commuters in the US.

Editor’s note: Jens Martin Skibsted was the Transportation Category Jury Captain for the 2021 Core77 Design Awards. (https://designawards.core77.com/2021/Transportation)

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Sep 30

A Stunning Spectacle: The World's Largest Drone Display

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The city of Shenzhen recently held the world’s largest drone display. Some 7,598 drones took to the night sky to create a stunning display of images including dragons, tigers, Chinese landmarks and more. Incredibly, they were all run by a single laptop.

If you enjoy visual spectacles, it’s well worth the watch:

This is definitely how we’ll be advertised to in the future, no? Think of that giant “Geisha-eating-a-snack” billboard in the opening of Blade Runner, just without the billboard, the video floating in space.

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