Karaca Design Prize 2023 by iF
Four student concepts were honored with the Karaca Design Prize 2023 by iF – three from Germany and one from the Republic of Korea.
The winners received flights to Istanbul, seven nights' accommodation at the Hilton Hotel, design workshops and a city tour.
Handmade baskets combining traditional craft techniques and modern design, a humidifier consisting of ceramic waste and clay, tableware made of walnut shells and a compostable food / beverage line for eating and drinking on the go: These are all concepts from students that pay towards solving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals – and have been awarded with the Karaca Design Prize 2023 by iF.
Karaca's design team provided the winners with an unforgettable stay in Istanbul: In addition to paying for their flight and hotel costs, the four were allowed to get a taste of the different design departments, attended workshops and experienced a tour of the beautiful metropolis of Istanbul!
Welcome to Istanbul
Turkey-based Karaca, a well-known manufacturer of kitchenware, tableware and home textiles, has awarded a special prize to four student concepts in the international design competition for young talent, the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD 2023. The works, which correspond to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations, come from Germany and the Republic of Korea.
Karaca has been committed to promoting and supporting young designers for many years. Engin Akbaba, Product Design Manager at Karaca, explains the company's supportive role for emerging designers: "As a brand, we are proud to stand side by side with young people who have the opportunity to develop bold ideas. Given the current state of our world, we see sustainability as a corporate obligation rather than a social responsibility. That's why we chose these four award winners. From our perspective, they are doing great work in implementing the SDGs of the United Nations."
Four winners of the Karaca Design Prize 2023 by iF
Handmade in Ethiopia – Banti Baskets
Designed by Martina Allerbeck (Folkwang University of the Arts, Essen, Germany)
The designer traveled throughout Ethiopia interacting with local artisans. In cooperation with women basket weavers in Ethiopia, the Banti Baskets were created. By integrating craft techniques into modern products, new markets can be opened for artisanal products supporting the livelihoods of craft workers. The designer also considered the environmental and social impacts of production to ensure sustainability and a long-term positive impact on the local community.
Jury Statement: “This concept has the potential to improve the lives of artisans by combining their traditional work with modern design concepts, opening pathways to new markets.”
Print Clay Humidifier
Designed by Jiaming Liu (Folkwang University of the Arts, Essen, Germany)
This project explores one of many potential applications for the millions of tonnes of ceramic waste that are produced each year. Recovered ceramic powder improves porosity when added to clay for 3D printing. The resulting ceramic has a higher water absorption efficiency, making it an ideal material for a natural humidifier. The organic form is reminiscent of coral or natural sponge and makes for a stunning architectural design piece in the home.
Jury Statement: “This concept combines new processing technologies with traditional materials and forms to create an eye-catching low-carbon design. Proof that sustainable design can be functional and elegant.”
NOS - Sustainable Walnut Shell
Designed by Soo A Choi (Daegu University, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea)
NOS is a new sustainable tableware range made from 100% natural ingredients such as walnut shells, natural resins, and carnauba wax. It adds value to walnut shells which are usually discarded after deshelling. The shell adds a degree of durability and firmness that few natural materials can match. This can be further increased by forming an oil film on the surface using high heat of 400 degrees or more without chemical finishing, making it safe for children and pregnant women.
Jury Statement: “This is a robust solution based on thorough research of usability, technology, and formal design.”
KURO
Designed by Isabelle Weniger (Hochschule Wismar, Germany)
KURO is a compostable food and beverage utensil line designed for eating and drinking on the go. The material developed specifically for the products decomposes under the influence of various environmental factors such as temperature, moisture, and various microorganisms without leaving residues and without posing a threat to the environment.
Jury Statement: “In terms of aesthetics and ergonomics, this is a clear winner. But more importantly, it addresses in a practical and economical way the urgent need for a departure from single-use plastics.”
About Karaca
Karaca is a kitchen, tableware and home textile company founded in 1973 in Turkey. Introducing its high-quality porcelain, cutlery, and cookware to the domestic market in its early years, Karaca has since expanded its operations globally while growing its range of products. Karaca continues today with innovative, design-led products in dining, cooking, small appliances, and home categories that include bathing, bedding, and accessories. With the vision to become a global leader in its market, Karaca continues to operate with 600 stores, 2,500 concessions and online shopping channels spanning three continents, with the majority based in Europe.
About the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD
The iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD honors exciting, visionary ideas and concepts from students that enable a dignified life worldwide while preserving the natural foundations of life. The competition categories correspond to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. The competition has been held since 2002. Participation in the competition is free of charge – prize money totaling EUR 50,000 is awarded each year.