When Ikea is no longer enough: Chinese designers inspired by cultural heritage find a ready market for their wares
- Designers of Chinese furniture and homewares no longer feel a need to appropriate other cultures, and benefit from rising interest in cultural heritage in China
- Exhibitors at Design China Beijing talk about their approach to sustainability – designs and products created to last, and a focus on materials and processes
Watches that tell “blurry” time, lamps inspired by puzzle knot toys and contemporary furniture fit for ancient ascetics – just some of the designs to look forward to at Design China Beijing’s second edition.
The fair, which opened on Thursday, features more than 200 exhibitors and independent designers, with a focus on sustainability and craft.
We spoke to six Chinese designers participating in the event about cultural heritage, global influence, and what sustainability means for them.
Kun Qi, 29, founder of Kundesign
Urban sophisticates in China are not known for splashing out on Western-style designer patio furniture – perhaps because of the city’s poor air quality and a preference for traditional courtyard-style tables and chairs. If Kun Qi has his way, they will be, and soon.
The native of Nanjing in northern China, now based in the southern metropolis of Guangzhou, focuses on made-in-China outdoor furniture with a European sensibility. His “Nest” collection comprises modular sofas in sinuous shapes, with backs woven from coarse ropes.
