In the prestigious SaloneSatellite Award 2024, Studio Ololoo, founded by a FoSE alumna, received the First Prize for its experimental approach and innovative use of inflatable TPU with a tensioned aluminium structure.

Chang (Jaco) Qian, a 2016 graduate from UNNC’s Product Design and Manufacture program, along with her partner Zhen Bian, founded Studio Ololoo, a vibrant design practice in Ningbo. “This award is a significant recognition of our work as designers,” stated Zhen Bian and Jaco Qian.

Selected from approximately 600 candidates from 32 countries, the jury meticulously evaluated projects that demonstrated ground-breaking design approaches while embracing sustainable practices. The event underscored the fusion of innovation, tradition, and sustainable thinking in contemporary design. This award to Ololoo Studio marks another win for a Chinese designer after a twelve-year gap since the last award in 2012.

The winning design, “Deformation Under Pressure” by Studio Ololoo, was recognised for its experimental approach and innovative use of inflatable TPU with a tensioned aluminium structure. It exemplifies innovative design that integrates shape, light, materials, and movement.

Inspired by the phenomenon of soft materials deforming under pressure, this project explores tension and deformation, blending them with product functionality. The elongated lamp, resembling delicate glass, is actually made of recyclable TPU. The inflated body of the lamp is clamped by aluminium rings to form articulations, held in place by thin wires through friction, allowing the lamp's height to be manually adjusted without a traditional mechanical structure. This design explored new possibilities in terms of materials, structure, and form.

“We faced many difficulties while creating the prototype. There is no existing production line capable of manufacturing the lamp, not to mention the yield rate. Everything we did was brand new and challenging, but we have proved that it is feasible,” they shared.

Jaco Qian began her design journey at the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC), where she experienced a fulfilling time growing and exploring the world. She highlighted the authentic British education system, the holistic curriculum, and the nurturing environment that fosters critical thinking and lifelong learning.

In the Product Design and Manufacture programme, we boast a diverse teaching faculty with varied expertise and experiences, all sharing a meticulous, patient, and responsible approach to teaching. Jaco also had the opportunity to meet many industry practitioners. After graduating, Jaco worked for two years at one of Ningbo's largest design companies before pursuing a master’s degree in Strategic Design at the Politecnico di Milano, a leading university in design.

“I see this as an opportunity and a beginning for us. I hope this award not only encourages us but also every Chinese designer striving to innovate and every entrepreneur promoting originality. I hope to influence not only the design industry but also China's cultural, manufacturing industries, and academia. This is a tribute to all Chinese people who care about originality and a recognition of China’s efforts.”