It was the talk of last year’s Saturday in Design. With the aim of involving the audience to be part of the event’s creative content, The Project stole the show, visitors putting the ‘Mini Milan’ on top of their must-see list.

This year, the range of collaborative possibilities has been increased, and a keyword or ‘inspiration driver’ will provide a starting point for those that need one.

In 2008 participating showrooms were invited to join forces with designers and architects from the community and use product as inspiration to showcase creative concepts during the event. What exactly this meant was anyone’s guess.

With no other instructions (but plenty of talent and enthusiasm from Australia’s established and up-and-coming architecture and design studios), the results were as diverse and imaginative as you’d guess.

Projects ranged from an oversized chair sculpture to interactive art exhibitions visitors wandered through, an interpretation of a favourite children’s book, a kitchen in a shipping container and a recreation of the London Underground. For visitors, one of the most interesting aspects was seeing how partnerships explored and expressed a huge amount of creativity, often for minimal cost.

This year, showrooms are encouraged to look far and wide for their Project partners. As well as the deep pool of architecture and design companies, expect to see collaborations with artists, industrial, graphic and fashion designers, and many other creative design firms. Concepts will build on the creativity of last year’s participants to include creative displays and installations, showroom revamps, events and experiences.

As well, the keyword for this year – just announced – is ‘Sense’, which can be interpreted to any literal or conceptual translation. Who knows what crazy creations will be seen this year? We’ll all be watching closely.

If you are a creative design firm interested in taking part in The Project with a participating showroom register at saturdayindesign.com.au/theproject

Don’t forget to register to attend Saturday in Design on 31 July and 1 August 2009.

Saturday in Design
(61 2) 9368 0150
info@saturdayindesign.com.au
saturdayindesign.com.au