The Mixology14 Student Furniture Designer of the Year award, sponsored by KI Europe’s Kickstart programme, has been won by Sang A Choi of Buckinghamshire New University, for her innovative designs, Beehive and Pony.
Beehive is a chest of drawers inspired by the relationship between objects, gaps and space. The concept behind Beehive is to create shadow using minimalist lines and forms. Made out of solid oak, its black finish increases the reflection and accentuates the concept.
Pony, Sang A's second piece, uses recycled climbing rope to create a simple bar stool. The whole concept and detailing of the stool is inspired by climbing. The frame wrapped with the rope creates curves for a seating posture similar to a saddle or harness, creating a feeling of safety and comfort while seated. A re-appropriated climbers’ carabiner is used to join the ends of the ropes beneath the seat. The blue rope goes into and out of the tubes almost snake-like, emphasising the continuous language of climbing and giving the illusion of holding the whole frame together as if by magic.
Jonathan Hindle, group MD of KI in the EMEA, comments: “KI are delighted to be recognising and supporting emerging talent once again through our ongoing Kickstart programme. Never has there been a more important time to encourage design talent to work in the furniture industry.”
Lynn Jones, head of the furniture academic department at Bucks New University, adds: “Sang A is an amazing, fresh, up-and-coming designer, her award is really well deserved. Still only in the middle of her one year Master’s degree course, she has shown exceptional design ability and creative tenacity throughout her time with us at the university."
Wesley George Cripps and Ian Reveley also from Bucks New University were shortlisted for the furniture products they designed.
The award is open to any person enrolled on a recognised furniture design course in the UK.
