The 2014 Bathroom Innovation Award professional and student winners were announced at a special ceremony at Melbourne Indesign on 22 August along with a showcase of all this year’s finalist entries.
Industrial designer and founder of Hop Design, Michael Hoppe, took out the professional category and the $10,000 prize for his compact and multi-functional cylindrical vanity unit. Combining mirrors, sink, drawers, seat and storage into one cohesive bathroom furniture piece, its luxe surfaces subtly reference the Greek myth of Narcissus.
The judges admired the versatility of the vanity unit’s compact design and its carefully considered aesthetic, highlighting that small can still prove both functional and visually striking. Michael’s design vision was brought to life this year with a full-sized prototype created by Australian bathroom furniture specialists Omvivo, unveiled at the announcement event as part of his BIA prize.
Monash University industrial design student Queena Le won the student category for her modular vanity. Design flexibility and the interchangeability of surfaces to create new functionality were key to Queena’s design.
It features a perforated sliding grate that instantly transforms the basin into an extended bench surface, along with detachable and repositionable drawers and flat surface taps that act as shelves. This year’s judges praised the simplicity and honesty of the design and it’s adaptability to the ever-changing needs of users.
As well as securing a $5,000 cash prize, Queena’s BIA win will see her heading to Barcelona, Spain for a two week internship with design team at Roca, one of the world’s leading bathroom product manufacturers.
For more information visit www.bathroominnovation.com.au
