Firstly, the design of the exhibition itself; this year the entries were still grouped into: architecture, fashion, furniture, graphics, interactive, product and transport; but they were displayed for the exhibition in the following themes: city, play, learn, home and share.
The sustainable and environmental theme the was prevalent last year was a continued presence, but a new feature was the advances of the portable touchscreen technology, like the iPad.
The exhibition signage was interesting, printed text on canvas and material, overhead signage hung from wire like washing lines.
Architecture
I was glad to see Living Architecture's Balancing Barn and Concrete Canvas were shortlisted. Both projects that I was impressed by this year, but that fulfill completely different needs. Living Architecture has created wonderfully the possibility for people to stay in buildings of real architectural value in the countryside without them having to be twee and period properties. The guys at Concrete Canvas have created the most wonderfully innovative yet simple solution to shelter for humanitarian emergencies.
Fashion
Lanvin Spring/Summer '11 collection bright yet feminine and elegant.
The Melonia Shoe made using a 3D printer/rapid prototyping machine!
Furniture
Spun, a sculpted, rocking, ergonomic chair, that is comfortable and functional. Reminded me of the teacup ride!
Marian Bantjes' I Wonder book was my favourite in this category, and has been a cherished purchase of mine this year. Its filled with colours, textures and patterns that feel like you are spoiling yourself when you read it, hold it, buy it for yourself! When I first bought it home it reminded me of the ornate manuscripts in the British Library, from times when the borders around the text were probably more important than the content itself!
Interactive
I was looking forward to experiencing Greyworld's 'Paint' for Nokia, which unfortunately was out of order when I visited; as was Wallpaper's Custom covers. The majority of this section was iPad apps, which don't really inspire me, but this may be that it was hard to see any with the young members of the audience taking to these exhibits the most. I did however enjoy Mimosa, an interactive artwork that mimicked petal configurations and reacted to movement.
Product
Pavegen really impressed me, a simple way to harness energy using paving slabs; the energy captured from footsteps can be used to power a light in the slab, as well as other street lighting, signage and local are information displays; to create a safer more energy efficient environment.
The other product I love, again because it is so simple yet perfect, and because lighting inspires me, is the Plumen 001. The image below says everything you need to know.
Transport
The Barclays Cycle Hire has definitely changed the dynamic on London streets, I understand that the bikes themselves are a clever design, but somehow I feel encouraging people who are not necessarily 'cycle savvy' to ride through London traffic without helmets is such a great idea. Considering the number of experienced cyclists with reflective kit and helmets that get hit by buses each year I think this is just a disaster waiting to happen. It's also not reducing the traffic congestion in London anyway, and without cycle paths, is actually probably created more confusion.
Overall a great range of designs but somehow not quite as inspiring as last year.
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