DFA Awards 2024 Celebrates Design Excellence in Asia with New 'Designer of the Year' Category

The Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) has announced the winners of the DFA Awards 2024, showcasing the innovative spirit and profound impact of design across Asia. This year's awards introduce a significant new accolade, the DFA Designer of the Year, marking a milestone in recognizing creative leaders based in the region.

The DFA Awards, launched in 2003 with the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) as the lead sponsor, honors extraordinary individuals and projects that have made a lasting impact on the design landscape, particularly in Asia. The 2024 awardees include Kengo Kuma (DFA Lifetime Achievement Award), Kikuo Ibe (DFA Design Leadership Award), Tino Kwan (DFA World's Outstanding Chinese Designer), and Eisuke Tachikawa (DFA Designer of the Year).

Prof. Eric Yim, Chairman of HKDC, emphasized the significance of this year's awards, stating, 'This year's DFA Awards laureates have demonstrated how design transcends aesthetics to become a powerful tool for societal change.' The introduction of the DFA Designer of the Year award highlights the growing importance of design in addressing complex social challenges and underscores the rich cultural perspectives that Asian-based designers bring to the global design landscape.

Kengo Kuma, recipient of the DFA Lifetime Achievement Award, is celebrated for his groundbreaking approach to architecture that seamlessly blends nature, technology, and humanity. His work prioritizes natural materials and human-scaled spaces, creating structures that are both grounded and forward-thinking.

Kikuo Ibe, honored with the DFA Design Leadership Award, is recognized for revolutionizing the watch industry with his creation of G-SHOCK, a shock-resistant watch that has become an icon of durability and style. Ibe's relentless pursuit of innovation has led to the sale of over 100 million G-SHOCK watches worldwide.

Tino Kwan, named DFA World's Outstanding Chinese Designer, has been a trailblazer in lighting design for over 45 years. His work spans commercial buildings, yachts, luxury hotels, and more, transforming spaces with innovative lighting solutions.

Eisuke Tachikawa, the inaugural recipient of the DFA Designer of the Year award, is commended for his dedication to addressing global social issues through design. His concept of 'Evolutional Creativity' has garnered him over 100 design awards and positions him as a leader in sustainable design practices.

The DFA Design for Asia Awards 2024 further exemplifies the breadth of design excellence in the region, with 215 awards conferred across six categories. These categories encompass Communication Design, Digital & Motion Design, Fashion & Accessory Design, Product & Industrial Design, Service & Experience Design, and Spatial Design.

Steve Leung, Vice Chairman of HKDC and Chairman of the DFA Awards Steering Committee, expressed enthusiasm for the caliber of projects showcased, noting the designers' commitment to addressing global challenges, promoting social inclusivity, and preserving cultural heritage.

The DFA Awards 2024 not only celebrates individual achievements but also highlights the collective progress of the design industry in Asia. By recognizing designers who are pushing creative boundaries and incorporating sustainable practices, the awards play a crucial role in shaping the future of design and its impact on society.

As the design industry continues to evolve, the DFA Awards serve as a platform for showcasing innovation, fostering collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of designers. The recognition of Asian talent on this prestigious stage reinforces the region's growing influence in the global design community and its potential to drive positive change through creative solutions.