9 Nov 2018 – 13 Jan 2019
The Kaj Franck Design Prize of 2018, awarded by Design Forum Finland, has been given to interior architect, designer Tapio Anttila. The prize is one of the most eminent design prizes in Finland and was now awarded for the 27th time.
The prize jury stated that interior architect, designer Tapio Anttila has worked during his career both as an inhouse designer in a large organisation and as an entrepreneur in his own company. Characteristic features of his entire career are a deep cooperation with product development, functional structural solutions and a confident, individual design idiom. Products designed by Tapio Anttila feature insightful functionalities and excellent ergonomics. With his own company, Anttila has been able to build a comprehensive brand, the product portfolio and identity of which are fresh and distinctive. Tapio Anttila wonderfully carries on the Finnish design tradition in his own professional and creative way.
The members of the prize jury of 2018 were CEO Petteri Kolinen / Design Forum Finland (Chairman of the jury), Advocate Pentti Kivinen / Finnish Fair Foundation, Professor Heikki Orvola, and design professional and critic Kaj Kalin.
The Kaj Franck Design Prize brings forth the central spirit and principles of designer Kaj Franck’s (1911–1989) oeuvre: high-quality, democratic and functional design that solves practical challenges and opens up new opportunities for companies excelling in design. A particular merit is if the rewarded designer brings beauty and joy to everyday life and enhances the quality of life. The prize sum is €10,000. The Kaj Franck Design Prize was established in 1992 by Design Forum Finland and it is funded by the Finnish Fair Foundation.
DESIGN FORUM FINLAND
Design Forum Finland promotes the use of design in Finnish companies, especially as a tool for leadership on the strategic level, thus enhancing the international competitiveness of companies. Design Forum Finland is a non-profit organization, and through its extensive network of design professionals, it will find the best design partners for companies.
FINNISH FAIR FOUNDATION
The Finnish Fair Foundation promotes Finnish business life, different industries and expertise by granting scholarships and prizes each year. The most well-known prizes are the Kaj Franck Design Prize, the Habitare Design Competition Award, the Out of Love for Books Award, and The Finnish Excellence Award.
Kuva: Teemu Töyrylä
