The UK’s first dedicated China Design Centre will officially open its doors on the 2nd May. China Design Centre is a new and independent initiative to facilitate better and deeper understanding of excellent contemporary design from China and to foster creative partnerships with British architectural and design practices.
The centre is being opened by Wang Shi, chairman of the world’s largest residential developer, China Vanke; Lord Wei, the youngest member of the House of Lords and the first Lords member of Chinese origin; and the UK’s Sir Terry Farrell, author of the recently published Farrell Review.
Jack Qu, the director of the centre, says: “Chinese designers are often misunderstood. There is a myth that the Chinese copy rather than originate ideas. But Chinese designers are just as creative as their European counterparts, and their craftsmanship is second to none. China Design Centre will show what Chinese designers are capable of, and is inviting UK designers and specifiers to strengthen the growing trade links between our two countries by partnering with them here and in China.”
The centre is dedicated to knowledge sharing and providing inspiration to all sectors of the built environment. It will be permanently staffed and will show changing exhibitions of the very best of Chinese design, and host events focussing on a wide range of design issues. The centre is aimed at the UK trade sector but it is also open to members of the public who want to see outstanding work by contemporary Chinese designers including architects, furniture designers, ceramicists and others.
China Design Centre will be based in The Building Centre at Store Street in London. The launch event is kindly supported by Chinese Cultural Centre of Tongji University.
