The future has roots: Storytelling through buildings and AI as a creative partner

The Design Perspectives x Golden Pin Salon Kuala Lumpur 2025 featured an impressive line-up of design professionals from Taiwan and Malaysia, each bringing unique perspectives from their respective fields of spatial design and visual communication design

This year’s Salon brought together top Golden Pin Design Award winners and distinguished designers for two dynamic sessions exploring “Human-centred Futures” through spatial and visual communication design. Held at PAM Centre and The Toffee, the events celebrated vibrant Asian design exchange while highlighting the Award’s mission to spotlight design excellence and emerging trends. From reimagining cultural spaces to integrating AI with human creativity, speakers shared insights on designing for impact, empathy and the future. Lively conversations continued beyond the stage, underscoring how Asia’s design community is shaping thoughtful, tech-enabled, tradition-rooted innovation.

Spatial design session: Something Old and Something New - Giving Places New Life

The first session at PAM Centre focused on how spatial design can honour cultural memory while reimagining spaces for contemporary use.

With his presentation titled Transformation, Borden Tseng brought an international perspective by challenging traditional notions of architecture with emphasis on spatial openness, interaction, and natural light, using technology and novel materials to create visually striking and socially inclusive buildings. His architectural firm, Q-LAB, embodies this experimental ethos, aiming to spark a “quantum leap” in how public buildings are conceived and experienced.

Ar. Rien Tan of TKCA Architects Sdn Bhd, whose professional practice is guided by the ethos INSPIRED to inspire, explores how brand-new developments can still embody familiar values, bringing new life to the way we live, work and connect. Tan shared insights from his work on Skyblox, Malaysia’s first co-living housing built with PPVC construction, particularly highlighting a forward-thinking housing model prioritising affordability, privacy and shared community experiences. Tan draws strength from cultural roots and human needs, reflecting how thoughtful design can bridge the past and future of our cities.

IDr Lai Siew Hong from Blu Water Studio presented his narrative-driven approach to hospitality design, showcasing projects like The Edison George Town, where historical context informed every design decision. In the field of interior design, Lai emphasised that the essence lies in conceptualising or gaining insight into a place’s historical significance, the communal behaviours, backgrounds and legacies of its people.

He added, “It’s about appreciating the variances in customs and techniques among different cultures, design philosophies and crafting heritage. This involves carrying forward traditions into today’s world and weaving history into the fabric of tomorrow, forging connections between cultures, craft and modernity.” His talk ends on a beautiful note that ties us back to the topic: “Respect the past, connect the future.”

Visual communication design session: From Inner Worlds to Visual Art - Translating Imagination into Digital Assets

The second session at The Toffee explored how designers are using artificial intelligence (AI) to create authentic visual communication while maintaining meaningful human connections.

Brian Liu, founder of Local Remote based in Taiwan, discussed branding strategies that balance cultural context with modern aesthetics. The essence of his talk lies in Liu’s ability to translate emotional and cultural energy into impactful design systems. Whether expressing quiet elegance or rebellious energy, their work proves that strong design doesn’t have to shout — it just needs to resonate. Ultimately, he shares his secret to being a successful brand designer: prioritise the client’s brand goals over personal design expressions and always design for impact.

Magdalene Wong of Where’s Gut Studio presented her work on brand identities that originated from a creative process that combines raw human imagination as well as AI assistance. “ChatGPT is basically my best friend during research,” she commented and laughed while sharing examples of how AI can be respectfully integrated into modern visual systems when deployed in the design process. “Digital tools like AI allow us to document, preserve and even expand our thoughts and ideas that might otherwise be lost or under-developed. However, it is the intuition, taste, originality, emotion and empathy from a designer that makes the work matter,” Wong explained.

Fariz Hanapiah demonstrated how his company, Experiential Design Team (EDT), uses extended reality (XR) to create immersive experiences for the purpose of therapy and meditation in mental healthcare. “Human creativity matters more than ever in the age of AI — now is the time that both human and technology help solve increasingly complex problems together,” Hanapiah emphasised, showing how digital tools can resonate within, and even help enhance, human lives.

Growing design connections between Malaysia and Taiwan

These sessions highlighted how Malaysian designers are addressing the same questions as their international counterparts, often with unique perspectives informed by the country’s rich multicultural heritage. Tsubaki Studio’s local coordination efforts helped create an environment where cross-cultural design dialogue could flourish naturally. The salon also increased awareness of the Golden Pin Design Award among Malaysian designers, with many expressing interest in submitting their work for consideration in this year’s competition.

Embracing human-centred futures

As the Design Perspectives x Golden Pin Salon Kuala Lumpur 2025 concluded, one resounding takeaway echoed across both sessions: meaningful design emerges at the intersection of cultural heritage, human empathy and technological advancement. IDr Lai Siew Hong reminded us to “respect the past, connect the future” by weaving local histories into spatial experiences, while Magdalene Wong emphasised that “intuition, taste and empathy” remain irreplaceable — even in AI-assisted design. These insights, shared by award-winning voices from across Asia, embody the Golden Pin Design Award’s mission: to illuminate outstanding design that honours tradition and embraces change. The conversations sparked here are a testament to Asia’s growing influence in shaping a more human-centered design future.

The Golden Pin Design Award 2025

The Golden Pin Design Award is accepting entries for its latest cycle. Registration is open until June 24, 2025, at 17:00 (Taipei GMT+8). Entries for commercially available products, published communication design projects, completed spatial designs and integrated design works are accepted. Designers and companies worldwide are welcome to participate!

For detailed registration information, please visit the official website of the Golden Pin Design Award at goldenpin.org.tw

For the latest news, please follow updates on the official social media accounts: Facebook and Instagram

2025 Golden Pin Design Award Opens for Entries

The Golden Pin Design Award, one of Asia’s most influential design competitions, is now accepting entries for 2025. From March 17th, designers and businesses worldwide can submit their work for a chance to gain international recognition and exposure.

The award spans four major categories — Product Design, Communication Design, Spatial Design, and Integration Design — celebrating outstanding works across diverse creative fields. Meanwhile, the Golden Pin Concept Design Award, dedicated to pre-market design proposals, is also accepting entries.

A global stage for design excellence

Established in 1981 and now organized by Taiwan’s Industrial Development Administration, MOEA, and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI), the Golden Pin Design Award has long been committed to promoting outstanding design and driving industrial and social innovation. Since opening to global participants in 2014, the award has drawn entries from leading companies and designers worldwide, including Architects 49 Limited (Thailand), ASUS and Baseus. Today, it stands as one of Asia’s most influential international design awards.

Beyond being a mark of design excellence, the award has become a barometer of industry and market trends. Past winners have garnered attention for their technological advancements, sustainability initiatives, aesthetic breakthroughs, user experience innovations and socially impactful spatial designs.

The esteemed jury members for 2025 announced

Each year, the Golden Pin Design Award assembles a distinguished panel of global industry experts, academic leaders and top designers to evaluate submissions based on innovation and excellence. Past jury members have included Tom Dixon (UK), Ahn Sang-Soo (Korea), Winy Maas (Netherlands, Co-founder of MVRDV), Sarah M. Whiting (Dean of Harvard GSD), Ingrid Schroder (Director of AA School, UK), as well as renowned Japanese designers Naoto Fukasawa, Oki Sato and Yoshiaki Irobe.

Marking her second time serving as a Golden Pin Design Award juror, part of this year’s judging panel is Francine Houben, founding partner and creative director of the Dutch architecture firm Mecanoo. Known for her human-centered, context-driven and poetic approach to design, Houben has led Mecanoo in creating landmark architectural and spatial projects such as the Library of Birmingham (UK), New York Public Library (USA) and Weiwuying National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Taiwan).

In the Product Design category, the final judging panel includes Babette Strousse, Dean of Industrial Design at ArtCenter College of Design (USA). With extensive experience in design practice, management and education, Strousse has held leadership roles such as the global director for footwear operations at Nike and the global director of operations at Nokia Design and has contributed to several internationally renowned design consultancies.

For Communication Design, the secondary judging panel features Melike Taşcıoğlu Vaughan, President of the International Council of Design (ICoD). As a distinguished designer, artist and academic, Vaughan has long been committed to addressing social issues through design. Her expertise will bring a unique academic and practical perspective to the evaluation process.

The full jury lineup will be announced at a later date — stay tuned for more updates.

Key dates and submission details

The 2025 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award are open for entries from March 17th to June 24th (5:00 PM Taipei Time). Early bird discounts are available for those who complete their registration and payment by May 20th (5:00 PM Taipei Time).

The Golden Pin Design Award is open to commercially available products and completed communication/spatial/integration design projects. Entries can be submitted by businesses or design teams. Entries that pass the Secondary Selection will receive the Golden Pin Design Mark and advance to the Final Selection for a chance to compete for the prestigious Best Design Award and Special Annual Awards in sustainability, social innovation and more. The winners will be announced at the year-end awards ceremony.

The Golden Pin Concept Design Award is open to unrealized design concepts or proposals, welcoming submissions from students, designers, and companies, either individually or in teams. The top three Best Design Award winners will each receive a cash prize of NT$300,000, supporting the transformation of concepts into reality.

Upgraded experience: Enhanced industry connections and market visibility

For 2025, the Golden Pin Design Award is introducing new initiatives to upgrade participant experience and foster industry connections:
• Exclusive events to connect designers with business opportunities.
• Enhanced online features, including matchmaking tools, an e-commerce showcase, and a media coverage hub, providing greater exposure for winners.
• Preliminary evaluation feedback to help participants better understand their project’s competitive edge.

For more details on registration guidelines and participation, visit the official Golden Pin Design Award website at www.goldenpin.org.tw

For the latest news, please follow updates on the official social media accounts: Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

The Best Design Award Winners for 2024 Golden Pin Design and Concept Design Awards Revealed

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Award Ceremony was held on the evening of Friday, December 13th, at the Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center, revealing the highly anticipated winners of this year’s top honors. This year’s Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award attracted entries from 21 regions worldwide. After a three-stage evaluation process—preliminary, secondary, and final selection—the juries awarded 32 “Best Design Awards” and 2 “Special Annual Awards” for the Golden Pin Design Award, and 3 “Best Design Awards” for the Golden Pin Concept Design Award. The winners hailed from Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, Poland and the United States.

This year’s “Honorary Award” was presented to Professor Shu Chang Kung from the Graduate Institute of Architecture at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, in recognition of his longstanding contributions to advancing design aesthetics and nurturing design talent in Taiwan.

Golden Pin Design Award 2024: Highlighting Sustainability, Public Service Innovation, and Social Inclusion

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Award recognized 642 winning works with the Golden Pin Design Mark across four categories. From these, 138 finalists were shortlisted for the prestigious Best Design Award, with 32 ultimately receiving the honor. The winners include 10 works in Product Design, 7 in Communication Design, 10 in Spatial Design, and 5 in Integration Design category.

Final selection jury member Shigenori Asakura, President of Japan’s GK Industrial Design, emphasized that the award-winning works stand out for their ability to convey meaningful and powerful messages to both users and creators. He noted that these works not only enrich industries, society, and daily life but also embody forward-looking vision and exceptional design quality — key criteria that guided the jury’s decisions.

This year’s winners showcase remarkable achievements in innovative applications, sustainability, social inclusion and aesthetic diversity:

Product Design Category

Taiwanese companies stood out with groundbreaking innovations. ASUSTek COMPUTER Inc. impressed with its dual-screen laptop, “ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024)”, praised for its sleek design and exceptional hardware-software integration. Pegatron’s “ARMO – Emotion Gaming Handle” redefined gaming interaction by combining sensory technology and AI. “TEKarrc”, an elegant and IoT-enabled height-adjustable desk from TiMOTION Technology, highlighted technical prowess, while afterain design studio’s “Election Aesthetics: Voting Booth”, developed for Taiwan’s Central Election Commission, balanced budgetary constraints with enhanced safety, stability and aesthetics.

From China, Foshan Ruiyi Intelligent Technology introduced the “nexone AI Latte Coffee Robot”, designed to boost efficiency and personalization in the beverage industry. Beijing Niu Technology earned recognition for its high-performance electric off-road bike, “XQi3”, and Shanghai Ziin Home Technology won with the eco-friendly “Mobius Chair – ECO”, crafted from recycled coffee grounds and featuring an innovative structure to address storage needs.

Japanese winners included TBWA\HAKUHODO’s “SHELLMET”, a safety helmet made from discarded Hokkaido scallop shells, and Chi Design’s “Chiritori X Houki 2.0”, a sweeping set merging Taiwanese manufacturing with Japanese craftsmanship. Thailand also made its mark with mflex factory’s “Ventilation Block – Air Flow (BTL 201)”, a modern reinterpretation of traditional building materials with innovative potential.

Communication Design Category

The Communication Design category featured outstanding works that reflected deep cultural and social awareness. Among the winners, British micro-organization Culture Device collaborated with narrative studio on “The Dictionary (of) Radical Beauty Project”, a visually striking catalog capturing the creative work of models with Down syndrome and photographers, challenging conventional definitions of beauty. Emerging team Jiidii won for their poster, “Remains in the Flood”, which used evocative text and imagery to convey a community’s memory of flooding with thought-provoking design. JIASUI STUDIO & Aestheticell Association received praise for “Disaster Risk Response Program Manual”, created for Taiwan’s Ministry of Education. The manual’s binding and color-coding offered clear and effective communication of disaster scenarios and response strategies, earning high marks from the jury.

Exhibition visual design was another highlight. Hong Kong’s Milkxhake Studio explored the nuanced relationship between humans and AI in “Hello, Human!” while adj. everything captured the industrial heritage of New Taipei City with their creative interpretation in “@®©”. Thai designer Manita Songserm’s “Crossover II: The Nature of Relationships” employed a poetic approach to document the transformation of contemporary Thai art.

On the international front, Poland’s Podpunkt Studio won for the project “The National Museum in Kraków—brand identity”. Their elegant and versatile design harmonized diverse artistic styles while showcasing the museum’s rich collection, earning them a well-deserved award.

Spatial Design Category

The winners in the Spatial Design category showcased a diverse array of innovative projects. From Taiwan, highlights included “THE JINRAY Experience Center” by One Work Design, and “(beanroom)” by Waterfrom Design, which seamlessly integrates brand value and sustainable practices. Forest-Wood Archi-Tect., a previous multiple award recipient, was recognized again for “Bridge Cocoon”, crafted with bamboo and unique construction techniques.

Thailand stood out among international winners, with projects such as “Harudot Chonburi by Nana Coffee Roasters” by IDIN Architects, showcasing brand identity through architectural expression; “N.L.N. Villa” by 1922 Architects, blending modern building techniques with traditional wisdom; and “Lanna Rice Research Center” for Chiang Mai University by Hanabitate Architects.

Japan’s winners included “Kashimada Nursery” by TERRAIN Architects, and the project “Redefining Public Restroom in the Park” near Haneda Airport, designed by Masatoyo Ogasawara Architects. Other notable international winners included “Beijing City Library” by Norwegian firm Snøhetta, and “Gaia”, a timber academic building for Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, designed collaboratively by RSP Architects Planners and Engineers and Toyo Ito & Associates, Architects.

Integration Design Category

Taiwanese team hidden_domain design studio earned high praise for creating the exhibition space for the 2024 Young Designers’ Exhibition based on the “Borrowed Objects” concept. Their work not only aligned seamlessly with the exhibition theme “Beyond Sustainability” but also minimized single-use consumption, showcasing innovative and sustainable design practices. Other notable winners from Taiwan included the “Taipei MRT Zhongshan Station Redesign” and the “Taiwan Public Pictogram System (TPPS)”, both demonstrating groundbreaking applications of design in public services.

Japan’s winners included the “Organic Fertilizer “YAKUZEN” and Compost System Local Production for Local Consumption” by Kanazawa – Bio Laboratory, which advances soil regeneration, and “YYSystem”, an accessible communication app developed by AISIN CORPORATION specifically for hearing-impaired workers. Moreover, AISIN CORPORATION invited several hearing-impaired users — also co-developers of the app — to attend the award ceremony this time. Through the app’s real-time translation capabilities, they shared in the celebration, making this recognition all the more significant.

Special Annual Award Winners

This year’s Special Annual Awards honored two projects that exemplify sustainability and social care. The first, “Hibāng Re-Fishing-Net Eyewear – Mountain Series” by Duolog Design LLC, showcases innovative use of discarded fishing nets to create screwless, interlocking eyewear. Paired with a recycling system, the design achieves a zero-waste goal, highlighting Taiwan’s prowess in sustainable design.

The second, “LONELY BENTO” (with “BENTO” meaning meal box in Taiwanese), is a collaboration between Bremen Digital Creative and the Silvergate Charity. Through engaging experiential design, the project raises awareness of the dietary challenges faced by elderly individuals living alone, inspiring public support and donations. This project exemplifies the transformative role of design in addressing societal issues.

Golden Pin Concept Design Award 2024: Innovative Proposals in Ventilation, Rural Aesthetic Education, and Urban Revitalization Take the Spotlight

The 2024 Golden Pin Concept Design Award highlighted exceptional creativity, selecting 47 entries during the secondary selection to receive the Design Mark. From these, six finalists advanced to compete for the coveted “Best Design Award,” with three projects ultimately claiming the top honor. Each winning project earned a cash prize of NT$300,000, recognized for its innovative approach.

The “F+L Lighting Ventilation Balls“, designed by Zi-Yu Chou and Ming-Zhi Hsieh, reinvents the traditional ventilator with an innovative structure that enhances its functionality and value. The project impressed the jury with its robust research and strong market potential, earning top honors.

“Soundscape of No.19“, a proposal by Cai-Yan Wu, Meng-Hsuan Wang and Liang-Yu Chen, integrates the local culture of Meishan, Chiayi, into an aesthetic education program for elementary school students. The thoughtful and passionate approach to cultivating creativity in rural areas garnered high praise from the Jurors.

Xinyue Geng’s “Let’s Play! – A Journey of Regeneration and Reconnection in Glasgow” aims to transform an abandoned viaduct in Glasgow, UK, into a cultural hub. The proposal paints an inspiring vision for revitalizing local heritage through innovative and site-specific ideas, blending imagination with deep research into the city’s needs.

Discover the Winners at the Golden Pin Design Award Exhibition

The full list of winners for the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award’s “Best Design Award” is now available on the official website (www.goldenpin.org.tw/en).

In addition, the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award Exhibition, featuring this year’s award-winning works, is currently on display at the Taiwan Design Museum in Taipei’s Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. The exhibition runs until April 6th, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to experience these inspiring creations!

The “Golden Pin Design Award 2024 Exhibition” to Showcase International Award-winning Works at Taiwan Design Museum Starting on Dec. 3

The “Golden Pin Design Award 2024 Exhibition,” which will showcase a curated selection of nearly 200 works that won this year’s Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award, will kick off on December 3rd at the Taiwan Design Museum in Taipei’s Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. This year’s exhibition highlights six major design trends and offers engaging spatial experiences, presenting award-winning works from 12 countries and regions – Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, United States, Japan, United Kingdom, Thailand, Poland, Singapore, Malaysia and the Philippines. Visitors will be able to experience the appeal of design through a multicultural perspective. The exhibition will run until April 6th, 2025, inviting visitors to explore and experience the design creativity of Taiwan and the world.

The Golden Pin Design Award, organized by the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Industrial Development Administration and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI), is Taiwan’s oldest and most iconic design award. Each year, outstanding design works are selected, recognizing the innovative achievements of designers and industry players, while encouraging the industry to place greater emphasis on design. In 2014, the award went global, opening its doors to designers and enterprises worldwide, while also expanding its international jury. In recent years, overseas entries have made up about half of all submissions, solidifying the Golden Pin Design Award’s reputation as a renowned international accolade. The annual Golden Pin Design Award Exhibition showcases the winning designs, providing a unique opportunity to explore the exceptional designs from both Taiwan and abroad in one place.

This year’s exhibition was curated by the cutting-edge design team “Atelier SUPERB.” Starting with the nature of the works and issues of concern, six themes were planned to explore how design has had a profound impact on social innovation, technological applications, sustainable development, and local culture. The curatorial concepts, exhibited works, and spatial design are intimately connected through a multi-disciplinary professional vision to stimulate emotional resonance and deep reflection in visitors.

“Design Foundation” explores the role and importance of design in infrastructure and public systems. “Advocacy Pivot” emphasizes how design addresses different social values and its role in fostering public dialogue and driving social change. “Tech Frontier” showcases the innovative technological applications that meet social needs. “Lifestyle Expansion” presents lifestyle proposals from diverse perspectives, exploring flexible daily experiences through spatial design and brand innovations. “Local Echo” focuses on how design interacts with the natural environment, redefines local culture, and takes on the power to spur local development. “Material Exploration” showcases designers’ understanding and application of materials, shedding light on the reuse of recycled materials and the construction of circular systems.

The exhibition space also skillfully interprets the themes using different design elements, with each area showcasing unique characteristics. The first area (Hall 01) is dedicated to the themes of “Design Foundation” and “Advocacy Pivot.” This bright and airy space features displays arranged at 45-degree angles, positioned securely like foundation stones, symbolizing the power of design as the cornerstone of society. The second area (Hall 02) focuses on the themes “Tech Frontier” and “Lifestyle Expansion.” Exhibition tables are arranged irregularly throughout the space, symbolizing the continuous innovation of technology and the expansion of everyday lifestyles. Multiple pathways allow visitors to freely explore the space. The third area (Hall 04) centers on the themes “Local Echo” and “Material Exploration.” Ripple-shaped exhibition tables are used to convey the value of circular materials and present the image of preserving local culture. Gravel gradation and metal textures are used to highlight the area’s focus on material textures and innovation. In addition, reflecting the concept of circular design, the curatorial team has repurposed tables and objects from past exhibitions, transforming them into elements of different environments. This not only preserves the historical memory of the exhibition but also symbolizes the inheritance and rebirth of design.

The award-winning works on display not only showcase the impressive innovative energy within Taiwan’s industry but also highlight its strong focus on future trends such as technological applications, circular design, and social innovation. Visitors can clearly see the profound impact design has on both the present and the future. For example, Pegatron Corporation’s “ARMO – Emotion Gaming Handle” integrates AI and emotion detection technology to elevate gaming interaction to an entire new level. Smiling Elements International Corporation’s “miniu Mountain Cat” is a stylish and easy-to-ride small-wheel electric bike that is a testament to the harmonization of contemporary design, aesthetic craft, and Taiwan’s manufacturing capabilities. The key features of TiMOTION Technology Co.’s “TEKarrc” electric height-adjustable desk are a powerful low-noise motor and a concealed control system. With its sleek and elegant appearance, the integration of IoT technology makes operations simpler and smoother.

The international winners are equally remarkable. “SHELLMET,” a collaboration between Japan’s TBWA\HAKUHODO Inc. and Koushi Chemical Industry Co., transforms discarded scallop shells in Hokkaido into functional and beautiful safety helmets. The uniqueness of its design craftsmanship is on full display at the exhibition. “Marni,” by Thailand’s Coomaxtudio, is a bamboo woven lamp inspired by the traditional art of paper cutting, featuring exquisite handiwork combined with 3D printing technology. Its consummate craftsmanship and creativity should not be missed.

Explore the 2024 Golden Pin Design Exhibition and Join the Awards Ceremony Online

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Exhibition will run from December 3rd, 2024 to April 6th, 2025.

This year’s awards ceremony will take place on Friday, December 13th, at 7:00 PM (GMT+8) at the Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center, where the Best Design Award and Special Annual Award winners will be revealed. Join the live broadcast on the Golden Pin Design Award YouTube channel to witness the announcement of the prestigious winners.

For the latest updates on the exhibition and ceremony, stay connected through the Golden Pin Design Award official website.

Exhibition Info

Date | 2024.12.3 (Tue.) – 2025.04.06 (Sun.) (Closed on Mondays)
Opening Hours | 10:00 – 18:00
Venue | Hall 01, 02 & 04, Taiwan Design Museum
Ticket Price | NT 50 (Full Ticket) / NT 40 (Group Ticket) / Free for those who qualify for discount tickets

Curation | Atelier SUPERB
Visual Design | S.SELECT LAB

Taiwanese Architect Shu Chang Kung, Advocate of Creativity and Design as “Social Mechanisms,” Receives Honorary Award at the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award

The Golden Pin Design Award announced today (November 6th, 2024) that the recipient of this year’s “Honorary Award” is Taiwanese architect Shu Chang Kung, who currently serves as a professor at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University’s Graduate Institute of Architecture. The official presentation will take place during the awards ceremony on the evening of December 13th (Friday) at the Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center.

The Golden Pin Design Award bestows the “Honorary Award” annually to commend individuals for their outstanding or extraordinary long-term contributions to the research, promotion, or practice of Taiwanese design. It showcases the recipients’ remarkable achievements, aiming to inspire the design industry and its practitioners. Candidates are nominated by Taiwanese design-related associations or organizations or current Golden Pin Design Award jurors. The recipient is selected by the Golden Pin Design Award jury.

Kung graduated from Tunghai University’s Department of Architecture and holds master’s degrees in architecture and design from Harvard University. After returning to Taiwan, he established AURA Architects & Associates in 1997. His works always challenged the dialogue between architecture and natural organisms across various scales, materials, or site conditions. Works such as the Yilan County Government Kaixuan Community Park and Xinfu Temple Plaza, National Pingpei Senior High School, and National Singang Senior High School of Arts all received foreign and domestic awards.

In 2009, Kung decided to enter the academia. He started teaching and conducting research at National Chiao Tung University (NCTU). He also made a commitment to leverage his expertise for societal benefit, integrating architectural designs with volunteer social services, promoting “humanitarian architecture” projects in rural villages, and serving as a master planner and designer. In his role as master planner and designer, Kung brought together resources, NCTU teachers and students, and professional teams to jointly complete charitable projects such as the Landseed Health Center in Chitwan, Nepal or the Bethlehem Early Treatment and Integration Education Center in Tainan’s Xuejia District.

Urban planning and urban governance issues have long been of interest to Kung. He previously served as the chief adviser for urban planning for World Design Capital Taipei where he helped the Taipei City Government in applying design thinking to public policy, revitalizing traditional market streets such as Dadaocheng and transforming industrial heritage sites. Kung is also actively involved in the cross-disciplinary collaborations across culture, art, and architecture, with extensive experience in cultural curation. He has served as the chief curator and chief adviser of numerous editions of large-scale expos such as Taiwan Design Expo, City Expo, Creative Expo Taiwan, Hakka Expo, and World Flora Exposition. Kung advocates for incorporating design thinking into urban and cultural governance, transforming exhibitions from mere events into key drivers of urban regeneration. He was in charge of the overall planning and curation for the “Jiangjun Village Open Library Information Park” project in Hsinchu City, where he applied design thinking to regenerate the spaces in an old military dependents’ village and create a site that weaves together history, knowledge, and life. This redefinition of a contemporary “library” was a remarkable achievement.

Kung has also participated in numerous public service innovation projects. He served as an adviser on Taipei Metro’s aesthetics task force and as a juror and adviser for six editions of the Ministry of Education’s “Design Movement on Campus” project. He has fostered collaboration among the public sector, design teams, and public communities, using design to address environmental issues with unique solutions, thereby making it a catalyst for social progress and innovation. For his contributions to the professional field and social practice, Kung received the ROC Outstanding Architect Award at the eighth edition of the award, the Tunghai University Outstanding Alumni Award at the 21st edition of the award, and the Taipei Culture Award at the 24th edition of the award, which highlighted “long-term attention to social design, cultural diversity, and the promotion of cultural resources equality.”

At the heart of Kung’s philosophy is “social design,” a principle he champions as an architect, educator, and activist. He has put the social responsibility of design into practice in different fields, significantly contributing to the innovation in Taiwan’s urban governance and public services. After learning that he would be receiving the “Honorary Award,” Kung stated that after his chapter at his architectural firm concluded, he became engrossed in exploring how design can address the challenges of modern life and urban environments. Following the 2011 Tohoku earthquake in Japan, the government and the private sector joined forces for the reconstruction efforts. This led Kung to realize that design can go beyond simple physical planning – it can reconnect people with the land and empower them to reclaim their lives. Inspired by this, He began exploring ways to transform creativity and design into “social mechanisms” that foster cross-disciplinary cooperation and drive urban
transformation.

Kung thanked the Golden Pin Design Award for naming him as the recipient of its “Honorary Award.” He said this is not only an honor of great personal significance, but also a joint recognition of those design teams that have worked hard together over the years: “This award affirms our redefinition of design’s value—demonstrating that design can genuinely touch hearts and actively transform our environment and lives.”

The Honorary Award will be officially presented to Kung at the 2024 Golden Pin Design Awards ceremony on Friday, December 13th. Winners of the highest honors, including the Best Design Awards and Special Annual Awards, will also be announced. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the official YouTube channel in both Chinese and English. For the latest news, please follow updates on the official website and social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

Finalists announced for the 2024 Best of Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award!

Japan’s recycled shell helmet, Taiwan’s disaster preparedness manual and Thailand’s Uncloud Coffee compete for top honors

Following the announcement of the Mark winners, the Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have revealed their finalists for the prestigious “Best Design Award” on September 26th. After the final selection, a total of 138 entries were shortlisted for the Golden Pin Design Award, with 6 entries emerging as finalists for the Golden Pin Concept Design Award.

These exceptional works, hailing from 12 regions, including Macau, Malaysia and the Philippines, will compete for the highest honors in this year’s competition. The much-anticipated winners will be unveiled at the award ceremony on December 13th in Taipei!

Golden Pin Design Award 2024

This year’s Golden Pin Design Award final selection jury featured 15 esteemed experts from various fields to determine the winners of the prestigious “Best Design Award” and “Special Annual Award.” Among the distinguished jurors were Korean design master Ahn Sang Soo, President of Japan’s GKID Shigenori Asakura and several other highly respected professionals.

Shigenori Asakura, serving as a first-time juror, remarked, “Innovation must not only showcase originality but also possess the potential to drive meaningful change. Achieving this level of innovation requires breaking traditional boundaries, embracing new perspectives, and having the courage to face failure.” For well-established products, he placed a strong emphasis on “quality.”

GPDA 2024 Featured Finalists for the Best Design

Throne X – All-in-One Musicians Throne

The Throne X is an innovative musician’s stool that combines sound-to-vibration technology with musical performance, offering a tactile way for musicians to feel and control rhythm. It features multimode functionality, including audio mode, metronome mode, and real-time mode, allowing musicians to physically sync with the beat during practice or live performances. The ergonomic seat and modern appearance enhance comfort and aesthetics. Built-in wired controllers adjust modes, speed, rhythm, and vibration intensity. It supports various inputs and accessories, ensuring durability and stability.

Sunrise Bench

The Sunrise Bench is designed for tea enthusiasts, blending Eastern philosophy with functional design. It incorporates the traditional concept of “heaven is round, earth is square” through the use of circular and square elements. Built without nails, it employs a tenon-mortise structure inspired by wooden architecture, symbolizing unity and mutual support. The bench’s seat is divided for ventilation, enhancing user comfort, while its eccentric circular plate serves as both a seating area and a platform for tea utensils. The tapered legs create a visually lightweight feel, representing simplicity and balance in the design.

SHELLMET

SHELLMET was created to tackle the issue of discarded scallop shells in Hokkaido, Japan, where approximately 40,000 tons of shells are discarded annually. By transforming these shells into a valuable resource, SHELLMET is the world’s first helmet made from 100% recycled scallop shells. Developed through biomimicry, it features a ribbed structure inspired by the natural strength of shells, offering 133% more durability than regular helmets. Designed for universal use, SHELLMET is especially suited for fishermen in harsh conditions, with a vent-free design to prevent rainwater penetration.

nexone AI Latte Coffee Robot

The nexone AI Latte Coffee Robot is an innovative coffee-making machine that integrates AI, industrial design, and robotic technology. Featuring a semi-enclosed design, customizable countertop, and dual-arm latte art system, it can autonomously craft various high-quality coffee drinks with barista-level precision. The robot includes an interactive interface, mobile ordering integration, and can even create AIGC-generated custom latte art, making it a standout example of robotics and AI in action. Its sleek design, combining matte black aluminum and 24K gold-plated joints, enhances durability and fits seamlessly into modern coffee or restaurant settings.

Disaster Risk Response Program Manual

Taiwan’s Ministry of Education revised the “Disaster Risk Response Program Manual” in 2023 to strengthen school disaster preparedness, focusing on earthquakes, typhoons, and landslides. The manual adopts a VVV binding format, allowing sections to be separated for easy access. Clear color coding—red for fire, blue for earthquakes, and orange for floods—helps users quickly identify relevant procedures. Rich illustrations, featuring Kinmen otters to enhance engagement, make the steps easier to understand and remember, improving disaster education for both schools and families

7000KM

7000KM is an international trading company named after the length of the historic Silk Road. The brand’s logo and visual identity were developed using a dynamic 5×5 grid system to reflect the freedom and flexibility of global trade networks. The letters “7000KM” are condensed within this grid, while the number 0 extends into a “map route” symbolizing the Silk Road, connecting the start (7) to the endpoint (KM). This design strengthens brand recognition and enhances its emotional appeal.

“Radiant Eateries: Hong Kong Restaurant Neon Sign Drawings”

“Radiant Eateries: Hong Kong Restaurant Neon Sign Drawings” is a book that explores the vibrant history of Hong Kong’s neon signage, particularly in the restaurant industry. Divided into two sections, it presents the history of neon lights and features 218 handwritten neon sign drawings. Using eight-color printing, including fluorescent inks, the book replicates the glowing effect of neon signs when viewed with a UV torch provided in a custom-designed box. The book aims to capture and preserve the visual beauty of Hong Kong’s neon signage from the 1950s to the 1970s.

Beijing City Library

The Beijing City Library, located in the new Tongzhou sub-center, is a landmark cultural building that redefines the role of libraries in the digital age. The design draws inspiration from Beijing’s natural landscape, with terraced hills forming sculpted interior landforms for seating, shelving, and informal zones. A central forum and the Valley—a meandering circulation path inspired by the Tonghui River—connect visitors to informal reading zones, conference rooms, and terraces. Ginkgo-leafshaped columns create a canopy-like roof, allowing filtered daylight to flood the interior. The design emphasizes learning, culture, and community, making the library a vibrant urban hub.

House for a Father

“House for a Father” is a thoughtful architectural design inspired by the bond between a father and his family. The structure incorporates familiar elements of a home—living and dining areas, kitchen, and storage—reflecting the father’s eternal love and providing a serene space for family reflection. A steel cubic entrance leads to warm wooden doors, while wooden louvers on the western facade curved into the final resting place symbolize the father’s honor to his family. Strategic design features, like louvers, offer natural ventilation and privacy. The minimalist, home-like approach moves away from traditional monumental tributes, creating a space for contemplation and solace.

Gaia

Named after the Greek Earth Goddess, Gaia is currently the largest Mass Engineered Timber (MET) building in Asia. Located at Nanyang Technological University, the six-story structure incorporates teaching spaces, research centers, and faculty offices, serving as a hub for learning, research, and innovation. With 78% of the building using sustainable MET, Gaia’s design reduces carbon emissions through energy-saving systems and photovoltaic panels. The building’s environmentally conscious design sets a new standard for sustainable architecture.

Uncloud Coffee

Uncloud Coffee, located in Chonburi Province, is a uniquely designed café inspired by the Aurora Borealis. The building’s dynamic, sweeping form reflects the northern lights, blending seamlessly with its triangular site and natural surroundings. Divided into three core zones—a bar and seating area, an outdoor lounge, and a tranquil workspace—the design features uninterrupted, sinuous lines that connect all spaces. To address noise and heat from the busy street, curved barriers strategically maximize mountain views while ensuring a cooler, quieter interior. The courtyard channels daylight, enhancing the café’s naturally illuminated and cohesive architectural experience.

Waterway

The design for the NTMoFA souvenir store aligns with the museum’s new goals of innovation and diversity, reimagining the traditional retail model with a fresh approach. A key feature is the introduction of a curved bidirectional axis inspired by a waterway, which enhances the viewing experience by improving sightlines for single-sided displays. Utilizing a modular system based on 15cm height increments, the design allows flexible display configurations ranging from 30cm to 120cm, accommodating diverse product sizes. A light color palette and carefully selected materials create visual harmony, while the product presentation mimics an art exhibition, elevating the store’s aesthetic. This innovative redesign positions the store as a key interaction point between the museum and the public.

YYSystem

Developed in collaboration with 300 employees with hearing impairments, the YY System is a series of innovative voice and sound visualization apps designed to assist individuals with hearing impairments in both professional and personal settings. With real-time transcription, noise reduction, and user-friendly options such as split-screen text and sound icons, it offers a highly accurate communication tool. The system promotes inclusivity and aims to improve the quality of life for users, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of belonging in various social contexts.

Golden Pin Concept Design Award 2024

In this year’s secondary selection stage, 47 outstanding works were awarded, with 10 advancing to the final round, where the design teams presented their proposals directly to the jury for a chance to win the prestigious “Best Design Award.” Jury member Angela C. Soong, Principal of Ecoscope, noted that the finalists demonstrated both forward-thinking innovation and a deep sense of humanity. She emphasized the importance of originality and the design process, focusing on identifying problems and offering viable solutions, and encouraged designers to aim for achievable outcomes.

GPCDA 2024 Featured Finalists for the Best Design

TIGHTEN River Tracing Shoe

This innovative river tracing shoe addresses the challenges outdoor enthusiasts face when switching footwear for different terrains. By separating the upper and outsole into two modules, the outsole can be easily replaced, reducing the need for multiple pairs of shoes and minimizing waste. The replaceable outsole system extends the shoes’ lifespan, and the military-grade laces and split-toe design enhance foot stability. The design also includes a zipper for easy wear and tension adjustment for added comfort.

Cattern

Cattern is a stray cat shelter designed to be easily installed on existing ground lights, providing a warm and cozy refuge for stray cats during cold winters. Noticing that stray cats often seek warmth around community streetlights, the design team cleverly utilizes the heat generated by these lights to create safe shelters, protecting stray cats from extreme weather. This practical and innovative design enhances community spaces while showing concern for animal welfare.

Let’s Play! – A Journey of Regeneration and Reconnection in Glasgow

This project reimagines an abandoned viaduct over the River Clyde in Glasgow as a vibrant cultural hub, reconnecting the divided north and south banks. It transforms a post-industrial space into a venue for street art and performance, fostering community interaction. Featuring innovative installations like the Rain Amphitheatre and a floating theater, it invites residents and artists to engage with the space and each other. The design incorporates sustainable elements, repurposing industrial waste and promoting environmental awareness. The viaduct will become a vital cultural center, blending Glasgow’s history with its evolving social and artistic identity.

Who will take home the top honors? The winners will be revealed this December!

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award selections have concluded, and the finalists for the “Best Design Award” are now available on the official website. The highest honor will be revealed at the awards ceremony on Friday, December 13th at the Taiwan Traditional Theatre Center!

Stay tuned on the latest updates through the Golden Pin Design Award website.

Winners of the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award announced!

Taiwan’s pet evacuation toolbox, Thai Singha Beer rebranding and a sustainable baby products initiative among honorees

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Award held its secondary selection on September 2nd at the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei, and the winners have now been announced! A total of 642 entries from 14 regions, including Malaysia, the Philippines and Poland, stood out across four major categories. These winning entries, having passed the rigorous secondary selection, not only receive the prestigious Golden Pin Design Award Mark but also advance to the final round to compete for the coveted “Best Design Award” and the “Special Annual Award.”

This year’s secondary selection jury was composed of 30 experts from diverse fields, including product, spatial and urban design. The panel featured an impressive lineup of jurors, including Shigeki Hattori, Creative Director at Japan’s renowned design team graf. Among the 642 winning entries in this year’s Golden Pin Design Award, there were 245 in the Product Design category, 195 in Communication Design, 150 in Spatial Design, and 52 in Integration Design.

Japanese designer Shigeki Hattori, one of the product design category jurors, expressed his pleasure at seeing many environmentally conscious and sustainable products in this year’s Golden Pin Design Award. He emphasized the importance of balancing functionality with emotional experience in design.

Highlights of Design Mark recipients

Pack Up a Home: A Disaster Preparedness Toolbox For Pet

Designed for earthquake-prone Taiwan, this innovative pet disaster preparedness toolbox integrates practical solutions for both emergency and daily use. It helps pet owners complete essential steps like preparing evacuation routes, medical resources, and supplies for their pets. The box stores enough essentials for three days and doubles as a shoe bench. Its glow-in-the-dark feature ensures visibility in low-light situations. Once at a shelter, it transforms into a litter box, diaper pad, or water bowl. The project collaborates with the Kaohsiung City Animal Protection Office, offering workshops to ensure pet owners stay prepared.

Earthly Records Day Pass Incense Paper

Earthly Records, Hong Kong’s first incense paper brand, introduces Day Pass Incense Paper, a handcrafted, writable product available in four scents. Launched in 2024, the incense paper releases fragrance when burned and comes with an instrumental music album for a multi-sensory experience. Designed with portability and sustainability in mind, the compact product also serves as a personal notepad, enhancing daily rituals of self-reflection and communication. By reimagining incense in a modern format, Earthly Records combines ancient practices with contemporary lifestyles, fostering emotional connections and introspection.

Lei Light Reflection

Lei Light Reflection is a multifunctional lighting product that integrates an aroma diffuser and a mirror, offering a refined design for small personal spaces. Featuring three color types and four dimming levels, it utilizes reflected light within an oval-shaped frame to produce soft illumination from any angle. The aluminum body, crafted with superior technique and anodized for durability, reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics. Its aroma diffuser uses patent-pending capillary technology to efficiently disperse scent with minimal oil, making it both elegant and sustainable. The simple structure ensures easy maintenance and repair.

yoose MINI Cube Shaver

The yoose MINI Cube Shaver set is a compact, multifunctional grooming tool designed for young men, offering an all-in-one solution with attachments for shaving, nose hair trimming, and facial cleansing. With its high-speed motor, precision shaving mesh, built-in nose hair trimmer, and food-grade silicone face brush, this grooming set combines practicality and sleek design. The magnetic attachment system enhances convenience and a modern feel. Its ultra-compact size, all-alloy material, and mirror craftsmanship make it a stylish and portable grooming companion, ideal for use at home, in the office, or on the go.

woogie

WOOGIE emphasizes the relationship between people and objects across different periods and cultures, selecting items such as sculptures and accessories that explore the symbiosis between art, nature, and functionality. The brand’s packaging, designed for small-scale production, is crafted from recycled pulp gray board, aligning with its commitment to environmental protection and sustainability. The unprinted, semi-transparent die-cutting design allows for flexibility in accommodating various product styles and sizes, ensuring practicality while highlighting the beauty of the objects themselves.

Rebranding for Singha Corporation

Singha Corporation’s brand identity was revamped to encompass its vision, personality, logo, and corporate identity system. The iconic “Singha” symbol underwent a minimal facelift to refine its curves and lines, and a responsive logo system was introduced to enhance visibility across platforms. Additionally, a new graphic pattern and corporate font were developed, balancing traditional Thai elements with modern aesthetics. This reconfiguration maintains cultural integrity while boosting the brand’s functionality and visual impact across all touchpoints.

New Visual Identity for the City of Racibórz

Racibórz, a historically multicultural city in southern Poland, unveiled a new visual identity designed to reflect its rich cultural heritage and unique character. The project focuses on showcasing the city’s diversity through a dynamic and flexible design system, utilizing shapes inspired by local landmarks and architecture. The updated logo, based on the city’s coat of arms, was simplified for modern use across digital and print media. With the slogan “Add your own touch,” the identity aims to engage residents in shaping the city’s future while attracting visitors and investors.

KW2 HOSTEL

The “KW2 HOSTEL” transforms a historic warehouse into an innovative accommodation space, embracing the concept of an “adult secret base.” With large floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Kaohsiung Harbour, the rooms are designed to take full advantage of the scenic views. The layout uses creative arrangement techniques to evoke an indoor alley atmosphere, inviting exploration. Each accommodation unit is versatile, serving not only as a room but also as a booth or mobile office, blending privacy with shared space. Led by the “MUJI RENOVATION” project team, the design emphasizes simplicity, nature, and richness, revitalizing the historic space for modern travelers.

Goodlife Studio @ Bukit Purmei

Goodlife Studio @ Bukit Purmei is an innovative active aging center located in a public housing estate in Singapore. Addressing the issue of social isolation among seniors, the design transforms an underutilized void deck into an inviting social space. The center features three distinct zones focused on craftsmanship and learning, allowing seniors to engage in creative activities. The “Kayu Artisan” studio encourages self-expression and learning from peers, normalizing imperfections as part of the aging journey. With bright hues, full-height glass doors, and a blend of modern and traditional elements, the design redefines aging spaces by fostering community interaction and promoting well-being.

Sky Forest Scape

“Sky Forest Scape” is an innovative rooftop public space in Bangkok, part of the mixed-use SIAMSCAPE development in the vibrant Siam Square district. Located on the 10th floor, this project addresses the urban need for green spaces by creating a microclimate through a variety of plant species that enhance biodiversity and provide natural air filtration. The space serves as a multipurpose area for relaxation, performances, and social activities, offering a tranquil escape with views of the city skyline. Designed to connect nature with urban life, it encourages community interaction and supports sustainability.

Sustainable Recycling Service for Maternal and Infant Products

Kodomo, one of Taiwan’s largest maternity and baby product retailers, has introduced the “Kodo-Kodo” brand to pioneer a circular economy system for baby products. This new initiative focuses on pram recycling, second-hand sales, and resale services, promoting a zero-waste, eco-friendly approach to parenting. Unlike private sellers, Kodomo offers a transparent and institutionalized recycling system, building trust with parents. The brand’s playful characters, Kodo and Lio, aim to inspire families to embrace sustainable actions. Kodomo plans to expand the service to include toy rentals and further recycling initiatives, encouraging green parenting.

Starbucks Bird Paradise

Starbucks Bird Paradise, developed in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund and SCS Global Services, is a certified Greener Store that seamlessly blends sustainability, art, and coffee. Designed with recycled wood, energy-efficient systems, and nature-inspired elements, the space sets a new standard for eco-friendly operations. Featuring initiatives like reusable cup incentives and plant-based menus, it promotes waste reduction. Eco-friendly packaging, water-efficient fixtures, and LED lighting further enhance its green credentials, creating a space where sustainability meets exceptional coffee experiences.

What’s Next for the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award

The final selection of the 2024 Golden Pin Design Award concluded on September 9th, with winners of the “Best Design Award” and “Special Annual Award” chosen from 624 shortlisted entries. The full list of finalists will be announced at the end of September, with the award ceremony scheduled for December.

For the latest updates, visit the Golden Pin Design Award website.

Golden Pin Salons Spark Creative Buzz in Bangkok & KL

The “Design Perspectives × Golden Pin Salon” by the Golden Pin Design Award has expanded its Asian tour this year, hosting five events across Shanghai, Shenzhen, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and Taipei. These gatherings aim to promote international and cross-cultural design exchanges. In May, the tour revisited Malaysia and Thailand, with salons held on the 14th and 16th respectively, featuring prominent creatives from across Asia.

Read more …

The 2024 Golden Pin Design Award concludes its annual tour across Asia with the highly anticipated “Design Perspectives × Golden Pin Salon” event in Taipei. Taking place on June 1st at the “Not Just Library” in the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, the event will feature a lineup of esteemed speakers exploring “Urban Culture and Design Aesthetics.”

Speakers include Yoshiaki Irobe, a renowned Japanese designer who will serve as a jury member; Javin Mo, founder of Milkxhake Design Studio; and Henry Lin, creative director of Atelier.63 who recently won the Best of 2023 Golden Pin Design Award with the “Hualien Art Museum” brand identity. Moderated by Taiwanese designer and founder of the IF OFFICE,  Feng Yu, the event promises insightful discussions.

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Golden Pin Salon Tours Kuala Lumpur & Bangkok This May!

Following the buzz of Shanghai and Shenzhen in April, the Golden Pin Design Award’s “Design Perspectives x Golden Pin Salon” Asian tour keeps the momentum going! Get ready, Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok, because the salon is setting up shop on May 14th and 16th respectively.

Both locations will offer a dynamic mix of in-person events and engaging online live streams. Mark your calendars and register now – this is an enriching experience not to be missed, for design enthusiasts and professionals alike!

The speaker lineup is impressive, boasting a stellar roster of renowned designers and creative minds from across the spectrum. We’ll be hearing from Johnason Lo (Taiwan), founder of JL DESIGN; Wei Chen (Taiwan), a project architect at Metahouse Architects & Associates; Yong Siong Yow (Yao) (Malaysia), co-founder of the design collective 1983ASIA; Chatpong Chuenrudeemol (Thailand), the 2020 Silpathorn Award laureate in architecture; and Krit Phutpim (Thailand), founder of Dots Design Studio.

Read more …

Participate in the Prestigious 2024 Golden Pin Design Award

The Golden Pin Design Award, hailed as one of Asia’s premier design competitions and originating from Taiwan, has officially commenced its 2024 call for entries. Running until June 26th, the registration period offers an early bird discount for those who register before June 7th. This esteemed platform welcomes entries spanning commercially available products, spatial designs, and integrated works, inviting designers and companies worldwide to showcase their creativity and innovative capabilities.

Read more here : 

2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award “Best Design” Winners Revealed

Taiwan’s 3D Vein Viewer Locator, Lithuania’s Electric Guitar, Thailand’s NANA Coffee Roasters Bangna, Japan’s Social Design Project Shibuya Font Among the Winners
On the evening of December 1st, the winners of the Best Design Award, the most prestigious accolade of the Golden Pin Design Award and Concept Design Award, were revealed during the award ceremony at the Globe Playhouse, Taipei Performing Arts Center. This year, the awards organizer received nearly 8,000 submissions from 23 countries/regions, from which 25 Best Design Award and 2 Special Annual Award winners from Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand, and Lithuania stood out in the final selection. On the Golden Pin Concept Design Award front, 3 rising designer teams from Taiwan claimed victory, securing both the trophy and a cash prize. The Honorary Award of the year, recognizing designers dedicated to design research, promotion, and practice in Taiwan, or those who have significantly contributed to the industry, was presented to Taiwanese architect Joshua Jih Pan, who received formal commendation during the ceremony.

2023 Golden Pin Design Award: Winning works Showcasing Great Diversity, with the Special Annual Award Promoting the Start-Ups and Design Thinking into City Governance

The jury panels for the 2023 Golden Pin Design and Concept Design Award included 97 designers and creative experts from 19 regions, including Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, France, the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Thailand, India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Iceland, Canada, Vietnam, Norway, Turkey, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. Throughout the preliminary, secondary, and final selection phases, jury members undertook the challenge of identifying exceptional works from thousands of submissions. Among the international jury members who participated in the final selection in person were World Design Organization (WDO) President Thomas Garvey, renowned Japanese designer Kazushige Miyake, celebrated Vietnamese architect Vo Trong Nghia, and Norwegian architect firm Snøhetta’s co-founder and APAC director Robert Greenwood. They all praised the submissions for their outstanding quality, global inclusivity, and diversity.
This year, 552 submissions in total were awarded the Golden Pin Design Mark following the secondary selection, 72 of which were later shortlisted for the Best Design Award in the final selection. In the end, 25 submissions were given the top honor, including 9 in the Product Design category, 8 in Communication Design, 5 in Spatial Design, and 3 in Integration Design.
Taiwanese architect Joshua Jih Pan was awarded the Honorary Award.
Taiwanese manufacturers and design companies dominated the Product Design category with their exceptional design and manufacturing ability. Winners included Lo Lat Design’s delicately elegant “L Series” furniture, Qbi Globe’s “STEM Exploration Toy Series” designed for preschoolers and their parents, Adison Biomedical’s “3D Vein Viewer Locator” designed to improve IV injection success rate, BLKTEC’s “C1D” all-terrain bicycle wheel set, as well as NESPRESSO and YSTUDIO’s “Your Daily Keepsake Storage Box,” which is an ESG practice that transformed waste coffee capsules into useful gadgets. Two submissions from China also made the cut in this category, including Morus Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.’s innovative laundry dryer “Morus Capsule 2” and Danke (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.’s functional and aesthetic “Pidan Wheeled Pet Carrier—Ventilation Type.” The Lithuanian start-up Lava Drops also won the hearts of the jury with the exquisite craftsmanship for its “Infinite Fretless Drop Electric Guitar.”
Communication Design winners made up a diverse list. Whitelight Motion secured victory once again in this category with the “34th Golden Melody Awards Key Visual,” while Aaron Nieh Workshop’s “Fieldoffice Incomplete Works, 1994–” and Happ Design’s “Three Suns” clinched the award, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship in publication. Several packaging designs also came out on top, including the “HEMEL Tea Drink Gift Box”—a collaboration between Taiwan’s HongJi Box Art and Japan’s Misawa Design Institute—and the “Taiwan Five Mountain Fragrance Series” designed by Goodays Global Inc. Atelier.63 distinguished itself with the brand identity design for Hualien Art Museum, which skillfully deconstructed the beauty of Hualien’s mountains and seas into a uniquely simple design language. Hong Kong’s Toby Ng Design, a Golden Pin Design Award staple, took home yet another award with “1611 Magazine” which redefined financial publications. Fellow Hong Kong design team A Hundred Times also made the cut with its “Prison Reform Project,” which used intuitive visuals to communicate heavy subject matters.
The GPDA 2023 Best Design Award winner_ Meta House’s “Recycling Center in Kaohsiung Municipal Guang Wu Primary School”
Thailand’s IDIN Architects won the Best Design Award for the project _NANA Coffee Roasters Bangna.” The representative gave acceptance speech through a video.
The competition was similarly fierce in the Spatial Design category. MetaHouse’s “Recycling Center in Kaohsiung Municipal Guang Wu Primary School” and Atelier TimeScape’s “Rongjin Gorgeous Time Park—Renovation of the Former Official Dormitories of Taihoku Prison” won for outstanding public space transformation projects. International winners include Thailand’s IDIN Architects for the experience-oriented shop front design in “NANA Coffee Roasters Bangna,” Thailand’s Chat Architects for the revitalization of an old fishing village in “Angsila Oyster Scaffolding Pavillion,” and Japan’s o+h architects for an inclusive indoor playground design in “Shelter Inclusive Place Copal.” The winners in the Integration Design category include Serendipity Studio’s “LDB 2023 Taiwan Pavilion｜Visible Shop—Parts without Cover” and Kaohsiung City Bureau of Cultural Affairs’ “Power of Taiwan Design,” both of which showcased Taiwan’s incredible soft power in design, exhibition curation, and cross-industry collaboration. The Japan-based social design project “SHIBUYA FONT” received high praise form the jury for envisioning an inclusive collaboration model for designers, public welfare agencies, and private businesses that gives back to society.
There were two Special Annual Award winners this year who put forward exemplary design work or made significant contribution to the industry. Bunkyokusei LLC’s “Project Typeface: Creating Your Own Font through A Year of Tear-off Calendar” married tradition with technology, allowing users to create their own sets of fonts by following playful instructions. The jury hoped that Bunkyokusei LLC’s win can encourage more young start-up teams to pursue their dreams and turn ideas into reality. The other winner was PiliWu-Design’s “Taitung City Branding Project: Incorporating Design into Public Policies” which proposed a series of revitalization and transformation solutions informed by designer insights and strategies, demonstrating how design thinking can be applied in city governance.
PiliWu-Design’s “Taitung City Branding Project_ Incorporating Design into Public Policies” won the Special Annual Award.

2023 Golden Pin Concept Design Award: Taiwan’s Young Designers Made a Splash

Competition at this year’s Golden Pin Concept Design Award was as intense as ever. The jury for the final selection shortlisted 5 submissions for the Best Design Award from the 38 Mark winners who passed the secondary selection. The final winner lineup featured three submissions, all from Taiwan, each of which was awarded a NT$400,000 cash prize. Thomas Garvey, who was on the final selection jury, praised the shortlisted works for their outstanding quality and uniqueness. Garvey was especially impressed by the winners’ passion to tackle real-life issues through design and showcase the beauty of the land where they stood.
The 3 winning works featured design creativity praised by the jury. Pin-Jung Chen’s “Wake Up! Fast Fashion! — Upcycle Footwear Workstation” proposed a shoe-manufacturing process that required only one single material and invited the general public to participate in the manufacturing process and learn about the value and possibilities of a circular economy. Ciao-Yun Hong and Fang-Hsi Lin’s “Sample Mt.” was a collection of cube-shaped desserts that evoked the imagery of mountains in Taiwan, a unique concept with a striking presentation. Yu-Jing Weng, Ru-Yun Li, Xin-Ting Ke, She-Fan Yen, and WeiJing Xie’s “Firefly” adopted a visually pleasing style for their solution for popular science education. The project excelled in both conceptualization and design methodology

A Refreshing Rendition of The Ceremony Designed by A Top-Notch Team Through ‘Superload’

Once again, this year’s ceremony was helmed by famed mandopop producer Isaac Chen, whose team has produced high-profile awards in Taiwan, such as the Golden Horse Awards and Golden Melody Awards. The theme of this year’s awards ceremony was “superload,” which explored designers’ desire to break free from conventional constraints and pursue self-transcendence despite the formidable challenges they face in life. The key visual, designed by Shi-Ching Yang to reflect the ceremony’s theme, featured a fictional content creator exuding a cool and playful style. Inspired by the Golden Pin Design Award, this fictional creator is ready to burst with creative ideas within their dynamic mind.
The stage and scenic design were orchestrated by the veteran stage designer Hui Chen, renowned for her notable contributions to productions like the Hollywood blockbuster Life of Pi and numerous plays and concerts in Taiwan. For the stage of the Golden Pin Design Award ceremony this year, the central stage featured an arc arrangement of six rectangular displays. These displays presented vibrant and dynamic visuals meticulously crafted by the upcoming video production company, JNE Vision Production. The innovative stage design, coupled with expansive visuals, provided a captivating backdrop for showcasing the remarkable works of both winners and nominees.
The host for this year_s ceremony is Ming-Chu Chen, marking her debut as the solo host for grand ceremony events.
This year’s ceremony was emceed by Ming-Chu Chen, a Taiwanese host on the rise. In fact, the 2023 Golden Pin Design Award ceremony marked her first time as a solo host at a major award ceremony. Her ability to smoothly switch between Mandarin and English allowed the show to flow naturally and made overseas contestants feel at home. The show opened with a warm-up act by popular singer-songwriter ANPU, who performed two of her classics, Zhe Shi Jie Ru Ci Mei Hao (“What A Wonderful World”) and Zui Hao De Shi Guang (“A Flash and How It Lasts”), with her signature warm voice. During the intermission, actor-turned-singer Rhydian Vaughan performed two songs he wrote, Feng Che (“Windmill”) and Cong Jin Yi Hou Ni Zi You Le (“And Henceforth You Are Free”), highlighting his unparalleled on-stage charm and dual talents. In addition to prominent designers who made up the jury panels, the award organizer invited famous actors, singers and music producers to serve as presenters and witnesses to the annual celebration of top-notch designs, including Peggy Hsu, Queen Wei, Chin-Lan Chang, Esther Liu, and record producer Owen Wang.

Winning works currently on exhibit at the Taipei Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

The list of winners is now accessible on the official website. Furthermore, the 2023 annual winners’ exhibition “Multidimensional Hyperplasia” is currently on display at the Taiwan Design Museum in the Taipei Songshan Cultural and Creative Park until Sunday, March 17, 2024. Design lovers are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity and visit the exhibition, experiencing firsthand the incredible winning works!

2023 Golden Pin Design Awards Ceremony: Key Visual Unveiled! Ace Producer Isaac Chen Returns with A Virtual Character on the “Superload” of Design

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Awards Ceremony, marking an annual highlight in the Asian design community, is scheduled for the evening of December 1st in Taipei. Today, on November 7th, its key visual has been unveiled. This year, Isaac Chen, a renowned producer in the Mandarin music industry, once again leads a top production team behind the prestigious Taiwan’s Golden Horse Awards and Golden Melody Awards ceremonies, crafting a lively key visual with a virtual character that promises a visually striking and sensorially rich event. The ceremony will be held at the Taipei Performing Arts Center with a live-stream in both Chinese and English on the GPDA’s official YouTube channel. The evening will culminate in the announcement of the recipients of the highest honors—Best Design and the Special Annual Awards!
The Golden Pin Design Awards Ceremony holds a prominent position in the annual calendar of the Asian design community. It not only serves as a prestigious platform for honoring designers and recognizing their exceptional contributions but also stands as a magnificent display of the dedication and creativity of numerous Taiwanese creative professionals. This year’s ceremony, themed “Superload,” once again challenges conventional standard and embraces a new paradigm. Audiences can look forward to an exciting and memorable night!
The ceremony producer, Isaac Chen, underlines the profound impact of the empowerment of new technologies in the digital era, along with the current trend of diverse interdisciplinary collaborations, have provided design with more possibilities. However, these developments also bring forth greater challenges to all the designers and creators, such as demanding more comprehensive creative thinking, multiple roles in creation, handling more complex issues, and fulfilling increasingly anticipated responsibilities. Chen says, while this may appear as an increased “load” on designers, it also acts as a driving force, compelling them to push boundaries and usher in innovative transformations. With the “Superload” theme, the ceremony aims to underscore every designer as a creator of beauty who is also a “superloaded” individual surpassing their own limits. It pays homage to the unwavering dedication of designers and acknowledges their valuable contributions.
The captivating key visual was crafted by the emerging Taiwanese designer, Shi-Ching Yang. He has masterfully translated the abstract concept into a sleek and alluring character who embodies the image of a creator holding a brush, channeling their energy, and ready to unleash a torrent of supercharged imagination. The energy pack, shaped like a Golden Pin, symbolizes the core power source that continuously replenishes their creative vigor. It serves as a symbol of the Golden Pin Design Awards, a platform that uncovers outstanding works and innovative trends, offering guidance and nourishment for designers. The key visual character comes to life through a delightful fusion of human and machine elements, showcasing intricate details in both body parts and accessories. The subsequent visual creativity and on-stage presentation promise even more surprising and enthralling highlights.

The Host and the Performing Artists

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by Taiwan’s upcoming MC, the “Hakka Girl,” MingChu Chen. Her bilingual fluency coupled with impeccable hosting skills, have propelled her to remarkable success. In 2019, her show “Hakka Girl Checks In” earned her the Best Education and Cultural Program Host Award at the 54th Golden Bell Awards. She has also been chosen to host the 2022-2023 Golden Melody Awards Star Boulevard and the 2022 Radio Broadcasting Golden Bell Awards, where her outstanding performances were held with high regard.
In taking on the significant role of hosting the Golden Pin Design Awards Ceremony for the first time, Ming-Chu Chen expressed her deep honor, drawing a parallel between the Golden Pin Design Awards and the Oscars of the Asian design world. She aspires to leverage her expertise to partake in the celebration and share the glory with the designers. She is also eager to deliver a performance that exceeds the brilliance and expectations set on the red carpet of the Golden Melody Awards.
The performing guest roster boasts the versatile artist, Rhydian Vaughan, celebrated for his finesse in both acting and singing. He has recently released his music album, receiving critical acclaim upon his debut. Be it on the silver screen or the stage, Rhydian consistently delves into various artistic avenues, embodying the concept of “Superload.” His upcoming performance has sparked anticipation, leaving audiences eager to witness the spectacular show he is poised to deliver.
Joining Rhydian is the highly esteemed multidisciplinary Mandopop singer-songwriter Anpu. In recent years, she has assumed a variety of roles, including producer, poet, and concert director, all while pushing the boundaries of creative exploration. At the Golden Pin Design Awards Ceremony, Anpu will grace the audience with her poetic and soulful lyrics, complemented by her unique and enchanting voice, offering a heartfelt performance to all the designers in attendance.

The Prestigious Winners Will Be Officially Revealed During the Event

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award received nearly 8,000 entries from 23 different countries/regions worldwide. After the secondary selection of “Golden Pin Design Award”, 552 outstanding entries from Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, the United States, Malaysia, South Korea, Lithuania, and India were awarded the Design Mark. Ultimately, the final selection jury further chose 72 entries as the finalists of the “Best Design Award,” the highest honor of the year.
As for the “Golden Pin Concept Design Award,” 38 entries passed the second selection and received awards, with 5 entries of them selected by the final selection jury to compete for the prestigious “Best Design Award” and a cash prize of NT$400,000.
The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony, scheduled for December 1st (Friday) at the Taipei Performing Arts Center. The event will begin promptly at 7 p.m. Taipei time (GMT+8) and will be livestreamed on the official YouTube channel, offering bilingual channels in both Chinese and English. Viewers are invited to watch the livestream to witness the birth of the award winners. For the latest updates on the ceremony, please follow the official website (www.goldenpin.org.tw/en) and the social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

Insistence on Innovation and Heritage: Taiwanese Architect Joshua Jih Pan Took Home the Golden Pin Design Award 2023 Honorary Award

The Golden Pin Design Award organizer announced the Taiwanese architect Joshua Jih Pan as the recipient of its 2023 Honorary Award. Pan will officially receive the award, which is a token of recognition for his achievements in and contributions to contemporary architecture in Taiwan, on the evening of Friday, December 1 st, 2023 at the annual award ceremony taking place at the Taipei Performing Arts Center.
The Golden Pin Design Award’s Honorary Award recognizes designers who are committed to the research, promotion, and practice of design in Taiwan and who have achieved extraordinary feats in or made significant contributions to the industry. The goal of the award is to encourage and inspire designers and the design industry at large. Candidates are nominated by Taiwan-based design associations/organizations or Golden Pin Design Award jury members for the year, and the eventual recipient is selected by the jury. This year’s recipient, Pan, has more than 40 years of experience in architecture under his belt.
In 1964, Pan hopped on a plane bound for the United States of America to pursue studies in architecture. He studied at Rice University, where he obtained a baccalaureate degree in architecture. He then got his master’s degree in architecture and urban planning from Columbia University before beginning his career as an architect in the US. After working for nearly a decade at internationally renowned architecture firms such as Philip Johnson, Davis Brody, and CUHA, Pan returned to Taiwan in 1976 and started his own company five years later. In 2000, he expanded his company into JJP Architects & Planners, which focuses on passing down architectural knowledge, techniques, and culture to emerging architects. To date, JJP has hundreds of completed projects in its portfolio, including residential buildings, offices, schools, medical institutions, libraries, and a wide range of other building types across Taiwan. The company has received countless domestic and international architectural design awards for more than 150 of its works. Personally, Pan has won the National Award for Arts, the GVM Summit Lifetime Achievement Award, the NCKU Outstanding Alumni Award, and the R.O.C. Outstanding Architects Award, among other accolades. Pan is the first ever Taiwanese architect to receive a fellowship from the American Institute of Architects, winning him the coveted “FAIA” suffix.
In his 40+ years of practice, Pan has dedicated himself to realizing the design concept of “co-prosperity.” His works embody his care for humanity and respect for the environment and showcase how buildings can exist in harmony with their surroundings. He worked with fellow architect Wang Chiu-Hwa to design the Chang Ching Yu Memorial Library for Chung Yuan Christian University. The University, completed in 1985, was the first library in Taiwan that featured a modern open-shelf design and that incorporated the then emerging concepts of green building. At the 2013 Taiwan Lantern Festival, Pan and his team designed a lantern installation named “Halo of Sustainability” for Delta Electronics Foundation, stunning the audience with its spectacular visuals. As a temporary arts installation, the main steel structure of “Halo of Sustainability” was made with 100% recyclable materials, an innovative strategy that brought new possibilities to making temporary art works more sustainable. Furthermore, Pan is also one of the pioneers in designing plants for technology parks in Taiwan. He insists on human-centered and environmentally sustainable design to create ecological, lively, and productive plants that can be constructed quickly to meet the rapidly growing need of the industry, revolutionizing people’s idea of what a tech plant could be. TSMC’s Plant 14 and Headquarters and ASUSTeK’s Guandu Plant were both notable examples of plants designed by JJP Architects & Planners.
In addition to his professional career, Pan attaches great importance to the cultivation of talent and passing down of architectural heritage. For more than 30 years following his return to Taiwan, Pan served as an adjunct lecturer at architecture- and design-related programs at Chung Yuan Christian University, National Taipei University of Technology, Tunghai University, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, benefiting nearly 1,000 students. Pan has also been very active in academic exchanges between Taiwan and China. He has given speeches at Tsinghua University and Tianjin University in Beijing, Southeast University in Nanjing, and Tongji University in Shanghai. Meanwhile, the Taipei-based JJP Architects & Planners has been providing internship opportunities for architecture students from around the world in the past four decades.
When he learned of the news of this award, a sentimental Pan told the award organizer that the training received by architects is to ensure that they remember the significance of architecture as a vessel for cultural, historical, technological, and artistic heritage, and understand the deep, long-lasting impact of architecture on cities, human lives and behavior, and the environment. Faced with rising challenges such as global warming and resource shortages, architects must pay attention to every last detail in their design. “All I ask of myself is to find the most suitable and least harmful way of design that can stand the test of time, answer to human and environmental needs, and keep up with my own standards,” said Pan with humility as he thanked the Golden Pin Design Award for the Honorary Award, “and only then can I live up to the vision of the Golden Pin Design Award.”
Public recognition will be officially given to Pan as recipient of the Honorary Award at the 2023 Golden Pin Design Awards ceremony, which will be held on Friday, December 1st . Winners of the highest honors, the Best Design Awards and the Special Annual Awards, will also be announced. The ceremony will be broadcast live on the official YouTube channel in both Chinese and English. For the latest news, please follow updates on the official website (www.goldenpin.org.tw/en) and the social media accounts on Facebook, Instagram, and X/Twitter.

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have announced the list of finalists for the Best Design!

The final selection of the 2023 GPDA_1
The final selection of the 2023 GPDA_2
The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have unveiled the finalists for the Best Design Awards today (October 13th). Following the final selection in September, 72 entries have made it to the shortlist for the Golden Pin Design Award, while the Golden Pin Concept Design Award features 5 standout entries. These exceptional design works, hailing from Taiwan, China, Macau, Hong Kong, Japan, Lithuania, the United States, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, will compete for the highest honors at the award ceremony scheduled for December 1st at the Taipei Performing Arts Center. The prestigious winners will be officially revealed during the event.

Golden Pin Design Award 2023

The Golden Pin Design Award for this year conducted the secondary and final selections in September, marking the return to offline selections after the pandemic. The international jury panel featured renowned experts in design, including Vietnamese architect Võ Trọng Nghĩa, celebrated Japanese designer Kazushige Miyake, known for his work with brands like MUJI and Plus Minus Zero, Thomas Garvey, the President-Elect of the World Design Organization (WDO), as well as Robert Greenwood, Partner & Director for Asia Pacific at the Norwegian architectural firm Snøhetta. These experts all came to Taiwan in person to participate in the judging, allowing them to closely assess the entries.
During the Golden Pin Design Award’s final selection, a panel of 15 distinguished designers and industry experts from both domestic and international backgrounds reviewed the 552 Design Mark recipients and selected exceptional works in various categories, conferring upon them the titles of “Best Design Award” or “Special Annual Award,” aiming to set a benchmark for the design industry by showcasing these representative designs.

Final Selection Jury Comments

Juror Johnason Lo
Juror Kazushige Miyake
Juror Robert Greenwood
Juror Thomas Garvey
International jurors participating in this year’s final selection, such as Thomas Garvey, Kazushige Miyake, and Võ Trọng Nghĩa, highly praised the quality of entries in the Golden Pin Design Award. They also expressed their enjoyment of the interdisciplinary and intercultural exchange of ideas during the selection process. Grace Wang, the President of QUE SERA SERA, who has served as a juror for many years, observed that each year, the entries for the Golden Pin Design Award showcase distinct highlights. She pointed out that in recent years, there has been outstanding representation of works related to sustainable development and circular design, aligning with global trends, and she is delighted to see more and more businesses engage in innovative ESG practices.
When discussing the judging criteria, Johnason Lo, the founder of JL Design, emphasized that design is not only about aesthetics but should also take into account its commercial and societal value and how to maximize its impact. Therefore, the potential for change through design is highly valued by the jury panel. He also highlighted that even with limited budgets, small-scale design initiatives can still have a significant and far-reaching impact. This year’s entries include many outstanding works, and it is hoped that the Golden Pin Design Award will inspire more of such designs in the future.

Featured Finalists for the Best Design

1. Your Daily Keepsake Storage Box

  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Nestlé Taiwan Ltd., Nespresso Branch (Taiwan)
  • Design Company: YSTUDIO (Taiwan)
The globally renowned coffee brand, Nespresso, which promotes coffee capsule recycling programs around the world, has partnered with the Taiwanese design company YSTUDIO to develop sustainable aluminum applications. They have introduced the “Your Daily Keepsake Storage Box,” crafted from locally recycled capsules, to highlight Taiwan’s innovative sustainability and design prowess amidst the global ESG movement. The unique angled edge of the box cover and the curved interface of the internal partitions extend the clean lines of minimalist architecture, paying homage to the modern design trends that have originated in Switzerland since the 1920s.

2. TENOR TWS OTC-HA Earbuds

  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: PEGATRON Corporation (Taiwan)
  • Design Company: PEGA Design (Taiwan)
TENOR is an AI-powered assistive hearing headphone equipped with features like active noise cancellation, intelligent detection, and recording analysis. It continually learns through AI neural networks to improve hearing assistance effectiveness and context awareness, ensuring a premium auditory experience. Its neutral and understated design also helps improve the willingness of individuals with hearing impairments to wear the device comfortably, thereby enhancing their quality of life.

3. Morus Capsule 2

  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / Region: China
  • Business Owner: Morus Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. (China)
A compact and versatile home clothes dryer, inspired by outer space, features a unique, sleek, streamlined design suitable for various home decor styles. It incorporates innovative patented vacuum negative pressure drying technology, enabling rapid drying of clothes while also providing professional care functions like complete deodorization, degerming, hair removal, and wrinkle removal.

4. Infinite Fretless Drop Electric Guitar

  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / Region: Lithuania
  • Business Owner: Lava Drops Guitars (Lithuania)
  • Design Company: Lava Drops (Lithuania)
An innovative fretless electric guitar crafted from a blend of Sapele and Maple hardwoods with aircraft-grade aluminum resonance modules. These valuable materials connect the past and the future and creates unimaginable resonance and fascinating sustain. Its design takes inspiration from the organic form of droplets, ensuring the best ergonomic experience for players whether seated or standing. The fretless fingerboard, as a free and spontaneous source of musical creativity, allows the player’s fingers to smoothly glide from one side of the ebony fingerboard to another, exploring microtonal nuances.

5. Sustainability is a Pain in the *

  • Category: Communication Design
  • Country / Region: Malaysia
  • Business Owner: Where’s Gut Studio (Malaysia)
A publication design addressing sustainability issues that showcases different sustainability approaches through thought-provoking case studies, curated global news, and interviews with local businesses. The design employs various techniques for conveying information and visual layouts, in line with the goal of illustrating that individuals can pursue sustainability

6. COCOLOCO

  • Category: Communication Design
  • Country / Region: Singapore
  • Business Owner: Coconut & Co (Singapore)
  • Design Company: Roots (Singapore)
COCOLOCO is a 100% natural coconut water. The newly introduced tetrapak design continues the brand’s ethos in purity and honest expression. By eschewing the clichéd coconut imagery and opting for purposeful brand graphics, a restrained color scheme, and thoughtful typography, all without over-packaging, it effectively distinguishes itself from competitors on store shelves.

7. Athita Hidden Court Chiang Saen Boutique Hotel

  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / Region: Thailand
  • Business Owner: Athita Hidden Court Chiang Saen (Thailand)
  • Design Company: Studio Miti (Thailand)
This hotel is a testament to the concept of preserving Chiang Saen’s rich cultural heritage while fostering its development. Located adjacent to the abandoned temple, which once served as a vibrant religious hub in the 700-year-old city of Chiang Saen in northern Thailand, the hotel seamlessly blends modern design elements and functionality with traditional architectural ambiance.
The architectural layout cleverly establishes buffer space between the old temple and the new hotel, ensuring that the beauty of the temple remains on display. Wood and brick, readily available local materials, were selected to harmonize with Chiang Saen’s distinctive context. Through the Athita, the architects hope to provide visitors with a tangible experience that encapsulates the essence of the local architectural heritage.

8. Gushan Fish Market

  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Marine Bureau Kaohsiung City Government (Taiwan)
  • Design Company: C.M. Chao Architect & Planners, Motif Planning & Design Consultants (Taiwan)
The building is designed around the idea of a “transparent box,” using translucent materials to create bright interior spaces that are illuminated by changing natural light throughout the day and night. The section within the double-layered glass not only conserves energy but also incorporates fused glass on the exterior walls to create a distinctive bubble-like appearance.
This project aims to revitalize the local traditional fish market by renovating the existing old structure. Furthermore, it seeks to connect with other nearby attractions, forming a waterfront tourism corridor in Kaohsiung. This initiative serves to enhance urban tourism and breathe new life into the city.

9. A New Newspaper in Education: The Anne Times

  • Category: Integration Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Ministry of Education, Taiwan
  • Design Company: Curriculum Reform Initiative Taskforce, Agenda for Art and Design Education (Taiwan)
“The Anne Times” is a newspaper designed for students’ independent reading, teacher instruction, and parent-child reading. It aims to develop a sensory reading medium that incorporates diverse intelligences, holistic education, and immersive reading experiences. This publication aims to break the limits of established curriculum systems and covers various knowledge issues, balancing Taiwan’s local culture with an international perspective. It emphasizes design and graphic quality, with full-page covers and cross-page interactive games as visual highlights.
Moreover, an interactive website and teaching case database were established to create a sustainable and shared aesthetic learning resource. Through collaboration with teachers in schools, interdisciplinary themed courses have been developed, reaching schools at all levels nationwide.

10.Taitung City Branding Project: Incorporating Design into Public Policies

  • Category: Integration Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Taitung County Government (Taiwan)
  • Design Company: Curriculum Reform Initiative Taskforce, Agenda for Art and Design Education (Taiwan)
The design team of Taitung Design Center, led by Pili Wu, has been working closely with departments and officials of the Taitung County Government to discuss critical public policies. They have introduced design thinking to develop a series of projects, including the Spine-Protection Aesthetic Backpack for Taitung First-Graders, the redesign of tourism attraction signboards, the rebranding of Taitung’s visual identity, etc. The goal is to create opportunities for change in local urban governance.

Golden Pin Concept Design Award 2023

In the secondary selection of this year’s Golden Pin Concept Design Award, a total of 38 works from various categories were awarded the Design Mark. Among them, 16 have advanced to the final selection, where they can present their works to the jury in person to compete for the prestigious “Best Design Award.” The top three winners will each receive a cash prize of NT$400,000. After the final selection, a total of 5 entries were chosen as finalists for the “Best Design” trophy, each featuring unique design concepts.

Final Selection Jury Comments

Examining the entries advanced to the final round, Juror Robert Greenwood pointed out that each entry boasts unique characteristics, infusing the selection process with both challenges and intrigue. He highlighted that the determining factor for the ultimate winner extends beyond common evaluation criteria like aesthetics, completeness, or maturity. Instead, it hinges on whether the concept behind the work is robust enough to ignite people’s imagination about the future. Juror Weijie Kang, co-founder of OCD & Oracle Creative Design, also conveyed his conviction that exemplary design should encompass imagination, aesthetics, a sense of humanity, and effective message conveyance. He emphasized that during this selection process, he came to profoundly understand that truly exceptional designs possess the invaluable ability to move hearts and stir emotions. Juror Kazushige Miyake offered encouragement to young designers, emphasizing that a strong design concept should not cater to a select few but should aspire to secure understanding and recognition from a wider audience. He also mentioned that an in-depth understanding of specific domains and the needs of relevant stakeholders stands as a fundamental requirement for designs, enabling designers to better respond to market and societal demands.

Featured Finalists for the Best Design

1. FLIPCARE

  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / Region: China
  • Business Owner: Shenzhen Suosi Design Co., Ltd. (China)
This innovative lumbar pillow assists the elderly in turning, relieving back and hip pressure and preventing bed sores through an internal airbag structure. By inflating and deflating the airbags, the support panels are controlled for regular assisted turning. The customizable control panel offers different modes and turning frequencies to meet users’ specific needs. With an ergonomic design that conforms closely to the curved surface of the human back, complemented by a surface mesh and internal latex material, the product achieves a balance of softness and support.

2. Sample Mt.

  • Category: Communication Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Ciao-Yun Hong & Fang-Hsi Lin (Taiwan)
“Sample Mt.” is a dessert series that captures the diverse aspects of Taiwan’s five major mountain ranges. Imagining themselves as researchers, the designers employed a sampling concept to deconstruct these landscapes into distinct components, extracting their natural essence. Furthermore, they carefully chosen local ingredients linked to these mountain ranges, using different “flavors” to encapsulate the memories of the land. This enhances the emotional connection to the landscape while enjoying the dessert and offers an opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation of Taiwan’s mountainous beauty.

3. City Narrator

  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / Region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Hsiao-Chi Chiu & Hung-Sheng Chen (Taiwan)
This project reimagines the vacant space of the former Taiping Elementary School in Keelung after its closure. By breaking away from the linear structure of the building, it utilizes innovative spatial modules and semi-outdoor platforms to plan for a multi-functional facility, including a library and spaces for artists. The goal is to create a vibrant hub for community interaction, aiming to give back to the community, preserve local stories, and promote urban development.

Who will be the winners? Find out at the awards ceremony in December!

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have completed three rounds of judging. The winners of the prestigious “Best Design Award,” the highest honor, will be officially revealed at the awards ceremony on December 1st in Taipei. Stay tuned for more information about the ceremony, and keep updated by following the Golden Pin Design Award official website (www.goldenpin.org.tw/en) and social media.
Follow this link for the full list of the 2023 Finalists:
https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/download/
About the Golden Pin Design Award Group
The annual Golden Pin Design Award is the longest-running international design award that celebrates products or projects expressly created for Chinese-speaking communities, offering entrants an unprecedented opportunity to prove their prowess in the world’s largest market. The Golden Pin Design Award Group is executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute and organized by the Industrial Development Bureau, Ministry of Economic Affairs. The Ministry of Economic Affairs acts in an advisory capacity.
For the latest news on the Golden Pin Design Award, visit: www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/

The Design Mark Recipients of the 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have been announced!

The winners of the 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have been announced! This year, both awards received nearly 8,000 entries from 23 countries/regions around the world. After the secondary selection held in mid-September, the “Golden Pin Design Award” selected 552 outstanding works from Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, the United States, Malaysia, South Korea, Lithuania and India, all of which received the Design Mark and qualified for the final selection. On the other hand, the “Golden Pin Concept Design Award” recognized 38 works with 16 of them advancing to the final selection. Proceeding to the next stage, both awards will select the prestigious “Best Design Award” winners, which will be officially revealed at the awards ceremony in December!
This year’s two awards held their second and final round of judging in September, marking the first return to offline selection since the pandemic. Over a thousand entries from around the world gathered at the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei for this unprecedented event.
The second selection of the two awards brought together a grand panel of 30 design and creative experts from academia and industry worldwide. The panel included notable figures such as Sarah M. Whiting, Dean and Professor of Architecture at Harvard University Graduate School of Design; Winy Maas, Founding Partner of MVRDV; Chen Yan, General Manager of the User Research and Experience Design Department at Tencent; Vip Buraphadeja, Editor-in-Chief of iconic Thai trend media happening; Keita Suzuki, Creative Director of the renowned Japanese design firm Product Design Center; Shenan Chuang, a veteran advertising professional in Taiwan; and acclaimed Taiwanese designer Joe Fang, Art Director of JOEFANGSTUDIO, and more.

Golden Pin Design Award 2023:

Highlights of Design Mark Recipients
Among the 552 winning entries in this year’s Golden Pin Design Award, there were 243 in the Product Design category, 164 in Communication Design, 114 in Spatial Design, and 31 in Integration Design.
Pidan Wheeled Pet Carrier (Ventilation Type)
  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / region: China
  • Business Owner / Design Company: Danke Co., Ltd. (China)
The Pidan Wheeled Pet Carrier offers convenience for pet travel. This carrier features shock-absorbing wheels that enhance protection and mobility, making it easier for pets to travel with their owners. It comes equipped with a built-in ventilation system, which can be activated to facilitate efficient air exchange and maintain a fresh interior. Additionally, the carrier’s design includes a pet window, interactive door, and a control panel for ventilation and lighting, all arranged in a sleek and compact form.
Calzone
  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / region: South Korea
  • Business Owner / Design Company: BDCI (South Korea)
This reusable folding plate draws inspiration from the Italian dish calzone. Like calzone, it is designed to fold in half or be stacked in two. When folded in half, it serves as a container and doubles as a plate. The design team has developed a versatile dishware solution that replaces disposable items such as traditional disposable plates and plastic zipper bags. The glossy inner treatment prevents food stains and simplifies the cleaning process, while the outer surface features a matte texture to provide a softer touch.
Bound Chair
  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / region: Thailand
  • Business Owner / Design Company: MORE (Thailand)
The Bound Chair is conceptualized with interchangeable parts in mind, allowing each element of the chair to be customized according to individual user preferences. The chair features legs, armrests, backrests, and seats crafted from a composite material consisting of plastic and coffee chaff obtained from the coffee roasting process, which is transformed into either coffee rattan or PlasCoff sheets. This innovative approach provides a comprehensive solution that encompasses various possibilities in terms of functionality, aesthetics, and color choices.
MOMOKAWA
  • Category: Communication Design
  • Country / region: Macau
  • Business Owner: MOMOKAWA (Macau)
  • Design Company: Loksophy Design Ltd. (Macau)
MOMOKAWA is a contemporary coffee bar situated within an aged redevelopment community, embodying the principles of minimalism, Wabi-sabi, and human craftsmanship. Drawing inspiration from Stoicism, the founder aimed to respond to the community’s transformations in a serene and deliberate manner.
“MOMOKAWA,” the Japanese term for “river flow,” symbolizes the transitory nature of coffee, akin to water’s impermanence. The brand system employs a singular hand-drawn line consistently, complemented by a minimalist grid system, ensuring a seamless alignment with the brand’s concept. Through this approach, every element maintains a sense of restraint, effectively conveying the founder’s vision.
Humana Theatre Zine
  • Category: Communication Design
  • Country / region: Malaysia
  • Business Owner / Design Company: Humana Studio (Malaysia)
Humana Theatre Zine is a self-published publication that fuses imaginative performance art with graphic illustration. The package includes an admission ticket granting access to the theater show, and its sleeve can be transformed into a mini theater, adding interactivity to the experience. A playbill serves as a guide to the entire theater program, detailing the 16 performances, including titles, choreographers, and performers.
Humana Theatre Zine aims to celebrate performance and art in a fresh and imaginative manner, embracing bold colors and geometric patterns to create a visually rich theater experience. The author aspires to offer an engaging and memorable journey for readers.
The Recycling Center in Kaohsiung Municipal Guang Wu Primary School
  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / region: Taiwan
  • Business Owner: Kaohsiung Municipal Guang Wu Primary School (Taiwan)
  • Design Company: MetaHouse (Taiwan)
The recycling center, a crucial campus public space, suffered from outdated spatial design, resulting in low usability and clutter. This project comprehensively transformed the recycling area, signage, and lighting based on the school’s needs. Lightweight, transparent, wave-like walls now re-define the area, seamlessly merging with the landscape. Strategic plantings create an engaging visitor pathway. Effective zoning and mechanisms display the waste collection process, giving everyday items a new purpose. The recycling center, once dim and secluded, is now a vibrant hub symbolizing a sustainable future.
NANA Coffee Roasters Bangna
  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / region: Thailand
  • Business Owner: NANA Coffee Roasters Bangna Co., Ltd. (Thailand)
  • Design Company: IDIN Architects (Thailand)
NANA Coffee Roasters, Bangna Branch aims to elevate the coffee-drinking experience by placing coffee at the center stage. The architectural design seamlessly integrates with the landscape, providing a serene oasis away from the bustling Bangna Trad motorway, where visitors can focus on enjoying high-quality coffee.
This concept blurs the lines between architecture, interior design, and landscaping, prioritizing the visitor’s coffee experience over Instagram-worthy aesthetics. The main buildings house the Speed Bar and indoor seating, with abundant plantations connecting and extending outdoors. Simplicity and functionality guide the design, emphasizing the coffee-drinking experience, with an uneven contoured top surface at the main counter to encourage visitors to savor their drinks.
TORCH COMMUNITY
  • Category: Spatial Design
  • Country / region: China
  • Business Owner: Dream Home for Dragon TV (China)
  • Design Company: PONE Architecture (China)
TORCH COMMUNITY is a public service center located in Panyu, Guangzhou. Its primary goal is to provide a public space for newcomers to the city, allowing them and their families to seamlessly transition into urban community life while experiencing dignity, happiness, and positive energy.
Preserving the original century-old building with its green bricks, tiles, and pitched roof, the design team integrated modern elements such as steel structures, wood frameworks, and glass boxes. This harmonious blend of old and new forms a revitalized community space.
Hack Care: Tips and Tricks for a Dementia-Friendly Home
  • Category: Integration Design
  • Country / region: Singapore
  • Business Owner: Lien Foundation (Singapore)
  • Design Company: Lekker Architects, Lanzavecchia + Wai (Singapore)
HACK CARE is a visual guide simplifying dementia-friendly home design principles through creative problem-solving, or “hacking.” The catalog uses illustrated hacks and prototypes, including inventive uses of IKEA items, to demonstrate practical care principles.
This guidebook also shares stories and interviews with healthcare professionals and caregivers, offering a comprehensive view of dementia care. It promotes adapting and optimizing homes to help individuals with dementia live independently, emphasizing that caregivers are designers too.

GPDA 2023 Second Selection Jury’s Comments

First-time international jurors of the Golden Pin Design Award, such as Ken Nah, Professor of Design Management at Hongik University in South Korea, Iceland’s Hjalti Karlsson, the co-founder and creative director of top New York-based visual design studio Karlssonwilker, and Japanese designer Keita Suzuki, Creative Director of the Product Design Center, were amazed by the high quality and diversity of this year’s entries.
Hong Kong designer Javin Mo, in the communication design category, emphasized the Golden Pin Design Award’s significance as a crucial platform for designers in Asia to showcase their works and talents to the world. He also mentioned that many designs created for the public sector in Taiwan performed exceptionally well this year. Even though such projects often come with various constraints, it’s still possible to see designers showcasing abundant creativity. This also reflects the trust and importance placed on design by the public sector, leaving a lasting impression on him.
As a juror in the product design category, Manfred Wang, Professor of Design at National Taiwan Normal University, noted that several entries this year underlined ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) factors in product development to encompass new applications, materials, eco-friendly components and coatings, and more. Wang underlined emerging trends including carbon footprint reduction and carbon taxation. He expressed hope for increased corporate engagement to address future environmental challenges.
Taiwanese architect Ching-Hwa Chang, a juror in the spatial design category, stated her focus on critical aspects of unique perspectives or interpretations on lifestyle and futuristic ideas that can inspire society or catalyze fresh changes in existing spaces. Shwu-Ting Lee, Vice President of Feng Chia University and Dean of the College of Architecture, spotlighted the global reach of the Golden Pin Design Award by noting entries from various regions in this year’s spatial design category. She expressed deep admiration for works from Southeast Asia, as they effectively embraced local cultures, innovatively applied traditional techniques, and displayed creative aesthetics.
Taiwanese designer Chialing Liao, a juror in the integration design category, commented on the remarkable diversity of the entries from corporate exhibit curation to aesthetic education and healthcare. She lauded the expansion of design beyond single objects to different sectors on a systemic level. She also expressed her anticipation for more industry-driven entries in the future, recognizing their potential to have a positive impact on the market and the broader industry ecosystem.

Golden Pin Concept Design Award 2023:

Highlights of Design Mark Recipients
Prinx-3D Printed Modular Auxetic Structures Lamp
  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / region: Taiwan
  • Designer(s): Sung-Ai Tsai (Taiwan)
This modular panel design enables precise deformation control and customized sculptural fixtures that has the potential to challenge the conventional business model of mass production and standardization. The utilization of a single material also increases the ease of recycling and repair.
MEDISPACE
  • Category: Product Design
  • Country / region: China
  • Design Company: Shenzhen Suosi Design Co., Ltd. (China)
  • Designer(s): Yuan Jianshen, Xiao Dingyu & Pan Baiyuan  (China)
Tailored for urban residents, this meditation device reduces noise and simulates electronic music with over 10 Tibetan singing bowl sounds. Users can compose unique music by striking metal discs for an uninterrupted and immersive experience.
Tea Seedling Pots
  • Category: Integration Design
  • Country / region: Taiwan
  • Designer(s): Chen Yu-Ting, Hsueh Kai-Chieh, Lin Zhong-Wei & Kai-Chu Li (Taiwan)
With tea tree branches as the material and a double-layer structure to shield the roots of seedlings, this container not only improves planting efficiency and survival rates but also offers the advantage of full decomposition in soil. This significantly reduces environmental impact and labor costs.

GPCDA 2023 Second Selection Jury’s Comments

As the juror for the Product Design category, Cheng-Neng Kuan, Professor of Industrial Design at Shih-Chien University, pointed out that the Golden Pin Concept Design Award serves not only as a platform for encouraging cutting-edge designs but also an great opportunity for the enterprises to showcase their creativity. He also mentioned that exceptional works often delve into less-explored issues, challenging designers to effectively identify problems and propose innovative yet practical solutions.
Japanese product designer Keita Suzuki stressed the importance of identifying pain points from initial ideation to the final draft to clearly articulate key issues, viability, and public resonance. Chinese graphic designer Tiger Pan, a juror for the communication design category, explained that evaluation weighs forward-thinking and pioneering elements more than experiential aspects. He encouraged participants to stay true to the essence of design and their target audience as well as that of preserving creative and innovative expressions.

For the Next: Who Will Claim the Top Honors?

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award are entering the third phase of judging. From the Design Mark recipients who have qualified, the prestigious “Best Design Award” and “Special Annual Award” winners will be selected, with the shortlist set to be announced in early October. The winners of these awards will be officially revealed at the joint awards ceremony for both awards in December! For the latest updates, please stay tuned to the official website and social media accounts.
Follow this link for the list of 2023 Design Mark Recipients
https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/download/

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Award

THE 2023 GOLDEN PIN DESIGN AWARD AND GOLDEN PIN CONCEPT AWARD JURY HAS BEEN ANNOUNCED!

List of jurors include Vietnamese architectural master Võ Trọng Nghĩa, Kazushige Miyake and Winy Maas! Early bird registration discount available until June 19th

The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award has announced the list of jurors today! The jury is made up of 97 experts from around the world with diverse backgrounds in design, architecture, media, advertising, and fundraising and venture capital, and includes the likes of Vietnamese architectural master Võ Trọng Nghĩa, Japanese product designer Kazunari Miyake and Co-founder of Dutch architecture firm MVRDV Winy Maas. This outstanding jury lineup will come together to explore this year’s innovative design submissions. The early bird registration discount for the Golden Pin Design Award has been extended to Monday, June 19th, with registration closing on Tuesday, July 5th. The 2023 Golden Pin Concept Design Award will be open for submissions until Thursday, June 29th. We welcome outstanding designers from around the world to seize this opportunity to step onto the international stage!
Since opening its global call for entries in 2014, the Golden Pin Design Award has invited experts from around the world in the field of design and creativity to serve as jurors, injecting an international perspective into the evaluation process. This year, the Golden Pin Design Award and Golden Pin Concept Design Award have gathered a panel of jurors from 19 different countries and regions, including Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, France, the United States, the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Thailand, India, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Iceland, Canada, Vietnam, Norway, Turkey, Lithuania, and the Netherlands. This represents the largest and most diverse group of jurors in the history of the awards, covering the initial, secondary, and final stages of the judging process.
This year, Vietnamese architectural master Võ Trọng Nghĩa will judge the final selection of both awards. Võ, who established VÕ TRONG NGHIA ARCHITECTS (VTN ARCHITECTS) in 2006, is famous for his practice of natural building techniques and innovative bamboo architectural design that can be seen in such works as the Vietnam Pavilion at the 2015 Milan Expo, where Võ used bamboo to conceptualize a space that evoked the form of Vietnam’s national flower, the lotus, in an achievement that drew international praise. He also leads his architects to realize the philosophy of co-existing harmoniously with nature by incorporating traditional crafts and cultures into the design of private residences, community activity centers, dining spaces, schools, etc. Võ has been awarded numerous international prizes, and was honored as a Prince Claus Laureate in 2016 in the Netherlands in recognition of his exceptional contributions to Vietnam. CNN has referred to Võ as “the architect transforming Vietnam’s city skylines.”
Acclaimed Japanese product designer Kazushige Miyake will judge the final selection of this year’s two awards. He established Miyake Design in 2005 and has designed for both Japanese and international brands. Miyake’s designs include Muji circulating fans, Plusminuszero air purifiers, and Yamaha headphones, all of which have become best-selling products. He has also served for many years as a juror for the Good Design Awards in Japan and Singapore as well as for the iF Design Award. It is anticipated that he will contribute his wealth of experience to provide professional insights for the Golden Pin Design Award.
Well-known Taiwanese multi-disciplinary creative professional Johnason Lo will serve once again as a juror in the final selection of this year’s Golden Pin Design Award. Ever since he established Taiwan’s very first company specializing in dynamic motion graphics design, JL Design, in 2005, Lo has been exploring the possibilities of visual design for leading brands such as HBO, Disney, and Netflix with his forward-thinking design philosophy. He has also taken charge of visual production for the well-known music and film awards in the Chinese-speaking world, “Golden Melody Awards” and “Golden Horse Awards” ceremonies and in the process rewritten the visual aesthetics of large-scale ceremonies in Taiwan. In addition to having extensive experience in international collaborations, Lo has been invited multiple times to serve as a juror for prestigious international design awards such as the PromaxBDA Awards and the Red Dot Design Award. His participation is expected to provide the Gold Pin Design Award with in-depth insights and an international perspective.
In the second selection of both awards, we have invited renowned Dutch architect and urban landscape planner Winy Maas to judge in the spatial design category. Maas is famous for his experimental and sustainable design philosophy, and has led the multi-disciplinary MVRDV team to create well-known buildings and urban spaces such as Crystal Houses in Amsterdam, the Tianjin Binhai Library, and The Spring Hele Plaza in Tainan. Keita Suzuki, Creative Director of the Product Design Center, will serve as a juror in the product design category. Suzuki’s designs, which combine aesthetics with functionality, have won widespread recognition in the industry. His works span a wide range of categories, from everyday objects to furniture to public facilities, showcasing his versatility. Suzuki has designed multiple train exteriors, interiors, and seats for passengers who are waiting for their train for Sagami Railway, along with products for companies such as Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten and DYK, a kitchen tool brand under Takagi.
The panel of jurors for the second selection also includes experts such as Iceland’s Hjalti Karlsson, the co-founder and creative director of top New York-based visual design studio Karlssonwilker, Vip Buraphadeja, Editor-in-Chief of iconic Thai trend media happening, Sarah M. Whiting, Dean and Professor of Architecture at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, Ken Nah, Professor of Design Management at Hongik University International Design School in South Korea, Joe Fang, Creative Director of JoeFang Studio, Yu-Fen Lo, Creative Director of Pinyen Creative, Chen Yan, General Manager of the User Research and Experience Design Department at Tencent, Andy Liu, Founder of Oracle Creative Design, and Yen Junting, CEO and Co-founder of Pinkoi. This impressive line-up spans the breadth of academia and industry.
The jury panel for the Golden Pin Concept Award is also impressive. For the first selection, we have invited Japanese design procurement expert Yu Yamada, who served as a buyer for the well-known curated shop IDEE SHOP in Minami-Aoyama for several years. Since establishing the studio Method Inc., he has been active in a range of fields such as store planning and industry revitalization in both Japan and Taiwan, and is known for his flexible approach to project planning and execution. His works include innovative museum shop SOUVENIR FROM TOKYO at Tokyo’s National Art Center, the idiosyncratic souvenir shop Tokyo’s Tokyo, and the Design Pin at the Taipei Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, among others. We are looking forward to seeing him apply his creative perspective to the discovery of innovative works. The jurors for the first selection this year will also include several highly acclaimed emerging designers, such as Bohan Shih, who won the Best Design Award in 2017 for his work Cream Mincho.
Renowned producer Isaac Chen, who has worked on major ceremonies such as the Golden Melody Awards, Golden Horse Awards, and Golden Pin Design Award; crowdfunding platform Zeczec co-founder Quake Hsu; Jui-I Huang, co-founder of the creative visual studio Mist Room Art; DHHS design director Gina Hsu; well-known design pundit and curator Wu Dung Lung; and Executive Director of the Vilnius Academy of Arts Design Innovation Centre Audrone Drungilaite are also among the members of the jury panel. Through their diverse perspectives on design, culture, and market trends, they will collectively select this year’s works with the greatest potential.

2023 Final Call for Entries!

The awards for this year are now open for submissions. The Golden Pin Design Award is calling entries for commercially available products or completed and operational spatial/integrated design works. Applicants can be either the business owners or design teams. The registration deadline is July 5th at 17:00 Taipei time (GMT+8), with an early bird extension until June 19th at 23:59 Taipei time. Registering and completing the payment within the specified period will enjoy discounted registration fees.
The Golden Pin Concept Design Award is also accepting submissions until June 29th at 17:00 Taipei time, and there is no registration fee. The top three winners of the Best Design Award will receive a substantial cash prize of NT$400,000. Don’t miss this opportunity and make sure to submit your entries on time!
The 2023 Golden Pin Design Award has announced the list of jurors.
From left to right in the top row are Winy Maas (the Netherlands), Chen Yan (China), Kazushige Miyake (Japan), and Andy Liu (China); from left to right in the middle row are Johnason Lo (Taiwan), Võ Trọng Nghĩa (Vietnam), Sarah M. Whiting (U.S.), Audrone Drungilaite (Lithuania); from left to right in the bottom row are Yu-Fen Lo (Taiwan), Jui-I Huang and Hjalti Karlsson (Iceland).
For the complete list of jurors: https://www.goldenpin.org.tw/en/jury