At a ceremony held at Caixafòrum Valencia, Andreu World announced the winning project of the 23rd International Design Competition, a special edition focused on the Circular Design® Challenge, a global challenge that seeks to promote the circular economy in the design industry.
This year, the first prize of 20,000 euros was awarded to Alexander Rehn (Munich, Germany) for Kaulu, a chair that stands out for its comprehensive approach to sustainability and its ability to close the product life cycle from a circular perspective, made from recycled wood and plastic. A design conceived to connect with a young audience, combining functionality, innovation and positive impact.
The jury, made up of leading figures in the fields of design, architecture and sustainability such as Ángela Montagud (Clap Studio), Marta Vall-llosera (CSCAE), Thomas Garvey (WDO) and Marta Alcañiz (BBVA Spain), evaluated more than 300 proposals. In addition to the main prize, honourable mentions were awarded to Chair 392 by Illia Masko (Ukraine), Folded Table by Michael C. Poulsen (Denmark) and Void Lounge Chair by Jonas Forsman (Sweden).
This year's edition of the Andreu World International Design Competition has broken records with more than 300 projects submitted and a record number of entrants in 2024. Since its inception in 2001, more than 35,000 young designers from 124 countries have participated in the competition, consolidating it as one of the longest-running and most prestigious competitions in the world.
At the award ceremony, publicist Luis Bassat gave a talk entitled "Creativity." Bassat shared with the audience how creativity has been the driving force of his professional and personal career, highlighting how he has applied an innovative approach not only in advertising, but also in his personal life. Through different examples, Bassat showed how creativity is a tool for transformation and success of brands. He also emphasized the need to apply it in design, as a differential value. Finally, he referred to Valencia, providing some ideas on the present and future needs for reconstruction after the DANA.
The event concluded with a charity dinner in support of small businesses and self-employed workers affected by the DANA in Valencia. For each attendee, Andreu World donated €100, totalling €12,000 that will go to the NGO Mamás en Acción, in collaboration with the Valencian Association of Business Owners (AVE), as a sign of its commitment to local economic recovery.
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