For most designers, ensuring that the products we deliver out into the world are developed with circularity in mind is well, top of mind. For longtime WDO Corporate Member Andreu World, circular design is one of the key tenets that guides the how and why of their globally recognized business.
Based in Valencia (Spain), the furniture company boasts an impressive portfolio of sustainability certifications — from their B Corp standing to having all their collections Cradle to Cradle certified. They also recently launched their Circular Design® Challenge, a global call to action for the design industry to rethink traditional processes and work to “manufacturing a better world”. The challenge emphasizes the urgent need to adopt practices like eco-design, waste management, achieving a neutral carbon footprint, and using more environmentally friendly materials.
Also being run in conjunction with the Circular Design® Challenge is the 23rd edition of the Andreu World International Design Contest, which is endorsed by WDO. Established in 2001, the contest has become an international showcase to support and promote emerging design talent and this year, the focus is on circular economy.
“We selected this theme to encourage designers to think holistically about the entire lifecycle of a product—from the materials used to the manufacturing process, and ultimately, its recyclability and impact on the environment,” notes Cristina Salavert, Andreu World’s Communications Manager.
Open to all ages, students and professionals of design, contest submission categories include a seat (chair, armchair, lounge chair, stool, bench or sofa) or table (meeting and conference, dining, coffee, center or auxiliary table) designed for the circular economy. For many, this will begin with the choice of materials.
Within their contest briefing, Andreu World outlines wood as the most ecological material, but also highlights other alternatives including recycled and recyclable thermopolymers, bioplastics, glass, metal or natural stone. Ultimately, as shared by Salavert, the most important aspect is that the chair or table “be eco-friendly and designed to have a positive impact on both planet and people, considering social, economic and environmental factors.”
All submissions will be evaluated by an international jury of highly prestigious professionals in the fields of design, architecture and sustainability, including 2023-2025 WDO President Dr. Thomas Garvey. In line with the assessment criteria, all entries must present a clear understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from responsible material selection to long-term usage. Alongside environmental considerations, proposals may also be related to the promotion of universal accessibility, cultural enrichment and the application of design to improve the well-being of people in the environments they inhabit.
“A chair/table designed for the circular economy is a product that is eco-friendly and designed to have a positive impact on both planet and people, considering social, economic and environmental factors.
In addition to its focus on the circular economy, what differentiates this year’s contest from previous cycles is that the prize money has been increased to €20,000, a shift which Andreu World hopes entrants will appreciate as a reflection of their commitment to recognizing exceptional talent in the field.
As noted by Salavert, “Andreu World envisions a future where production and consumption are carried out with respect for the environment, using healthy materials and creating furniture with long life-cycles that are fully recycled and recyclable. We are committed to investing in innovation and nurturing young talent to drive this change forward.”
Submissions for the 23rd Andreu World International Design Contest are open until 29 November 2024. To learn more, please visit the contest website.
