Focus Open 2014
Baden-Württemberg International Design Award
Results


Competition as a means of advancement

For the last 23 years, Baden-Württemberg has been calling for entries for its state design award from all over the world.
Known by the label “Focus Open – Baden-Württemberg International Design Award”, it is held in high esteem by companies and design agencies alike and has become a well-established constant in the national and international competition scene. Every year, companies and design agencies from all over the world submit their most innovative product and concept solutions and enter the competition for outstanding and forward-thinking design. Because of its non-commercial orientation, the contest fulfils its mandate to promote design and enables even the smallest companies to take part.
For the prize-winners and those honoured with distinctions, the “Focus Gold”, “Focus Silver” and “Focus Spe-cial Mention” awards constitute an effective tool for strengthening their brand, both in terms of its external impact on the market and within the winning companies and agencies themselves.


Participants and awards

This year’s “Focus Open” jury evaluated 230 entries in a wide range of different categories. The product in-novations came from Japan, the USA, Great Britain, Austria, Liechtenstein, Belgium, Denmark, Sweden and of course Germany. The jury selected a total of 79 prize-winners from amongst all the entries submitted. The premium award “Focus Gold” for outstanding design went to 13 products. 35 products were presented with the “Focus Silver” for above-average design achievements, whilst 31 products received the “Focus Special Mention” for innovative design achievements.

Categories


Participants could allocate their entries to the following categories:

• Production, assembly, logistics
• Medicine, rehabilitation, geriatric medicine
• Bathrooms, sanitaryware, wellness
• Kitchen, household
• Tableware and kitchenware
• Home interiors
• Contract interiors
• Ambience, lifestyle
• Lighting
• Communication, audio, video, optical equipment
• Leisure, outdoor
• Sport
• Children, family
• Architecture
• Public design
• Transport, traffic
• Design studies for sustainability

A fair jury, a fair assessment

One special feature of the Focus Open competition is that no pre-selection of the entries is made prior to the judging. Every product submitted was presented to the jury, intensely examined, explained and discussed. In order to ensure a fair evaluation, the jurors agree not to submit any products whose development they were involved with. Almost without exception, the assessment of the entries was conducted on the basis of the original product. The judging process comprised several rounds and, this year too, resulted in some lively discussions.
The jury line-up and its combined experience from a wide range of different disciplines, sectors and product categories helped ensure fair and competent assessments from a variety of very different perspectives.


The entries were evaluated by the following experts in the course of a two-day judging session:

• Knut Braake, Braake Design, DE
• Simon Husslein, Studio Hannes Wettstein AG, CH
• Birte Jürgensen, zweigrad GmbH & Co.KG, industrial design DE
• Britta Pukall, milani design & consulting AG, CH
• Aleks Tatic, Tatic Designstudio Srl, IT
• Eberhard Lenz, ONGO® GmbH, DE


The jurors based their assessment on the following design criteria:
design quality, functionality, innovativeness, ergonomics, interface design, product typography, ecology, sustainability, perceived value, look and feel, emotionality, brand fit.


A valuable distinction for the prize-winners

Thanks to the non-commercial nature of the competition and the moderate participation fees, even very smaller and emerging companies can enter their products and compete at international level. The competition pursues the declared aim of highlighting tendencies in design, uncovering innovative solutions and, most importantly of all, promoting and assisting the annual prize-winners in the marketing of their innovations. The benefit for the award-winners is particularly noticeable with regard to their marketing communications: the “Focus Gold”, “Focus Silver” and “Focus Special Mention” labels are a mark of quality and valuable product distinctions within the brand profile. In addition, the festive award ceremony, the exhibition at the MIK – Mu-seum, Information, Art in Ludwigsburg, which lasts several weeks, as well as the extensive online presenta-tion and premium exhibition catalogue that is distributed all over the world, are all measures that help gener-ate publicity and awareness.
Being honoured with a design award sends a signal that the submitted work is held in high esteem by select experts. It is a signal that can have a positive impact within big companies too and represents an important endorsement for all those involved with the development process. It can boost both motivation and identification with the company and its products, as well as reinforcing confidence in the collaboration between designers and companies.

Medicine, rehabilitation, geriatric medicine


Twion
Wheelchair drive wheels


Manufacturer
Ulrich Alber GmbH
D-72461 Albstadt
www.twion.de / www.alber.de

Design
DesignGen
D-81371 Munich
www.design-gen.de

Distributor
Ulrich Alber GmbH
D-72461 Albstadt
www.alber.de

Wheelchair users can take off faster with the new push-rim drive that is compatible with almost all non-motorised active wheelchairs. Once a special bracket has been fitted, a quick-release axle means the original wheels can be replaced with the Twion wheels at any time, thus providing the user with active support for a quick start. The relevant signals are detected by a sensor system in the hand rim, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries in the central housing of the wheel hub motors provide energy storage. Thanks to the energy recovery system, the range has been extended to as much as 20 kilometres; the batteries are charged via a magnetic charging connector, the charging socket is also used to activate the system.
Besides diagnosing malfunctions, the corresponding smartphone app also allows the user to check the battery charge and the distance travelled and includes GPS tracking features. In addition, the smartphone can be used to remote control the wheelchair drive as well.

Jury
There are plenty of electric drives for wheelchairs, but few of them look as sporty and activating as this. Very good and simple solutions have been found for detaching the wheels, the LED charge indicator and the app connection to the smartphone, with totally new functions from the world of sport.

Bathrooms, sanitaryware, wellness



Logis
Basin mixer


Manufacturer
Hansgrohe SE
D-77761 Schiltach
www.hansgrohe.com

Design
Phoenix Design GmbH + Co. KG
D-70376 Stuttgart
www.phoenixdesign.com

Distributor
Hansgrohe Deutschland Vertriebs GmbH
D-77761 Schiltach
www.hansgrohe.com

The Logis family of mixers was designed to harmonise with many different ceramic ranges from various manufacturers. The individual members of the family, which includes basin mixers in various heights, thus cultivate an appropriately restrained look. As a result, the mixer can be optimally adapted to the respective basin – not just in visual terms but at functional level too: extensive testing has been carried out to optimise splash behaviour.
The rounded contours, arched surfaces and a lever that lifts towards the user add up to a nuanced overall picture.

Jury
As this mixer goes to show, there is no reason why a simple design language has to be banal. The slight doming adds a touch of subtle suspense to the top surfaces of the lever and spout – and enhances the form of the tap without diluting its clarity


Contract interiors


Talk
Conference table system


Manufacturer
Wilhelm Renz GmbH + Co. KG
D-71034 Böblingen
www.renz.de

Design
Jehs + Laub
D-70180 Stuttgart
www.jehs-laub.com

Distributor
Wilhelm Renz GmbH + Co. KG
D-71034 Böblingen
www.renz.de

Thanks to its modular design, Talk can be used to create table configurations in a wide range of shapes and sizes. The combination of different panel formats means the tables can easily be adjusted to changing spatial settings and varying numbers of participants. Just one chrome-plated aluminium base supports two panel elements, creating a pleasant amount of legroom. And because the press-fit connector only relies on two well-integrated levers, assembly is quick and straightforward. Power is supplied by integrated boxes in the tabletop, large-volume conduits and vertical cable guides that can be fitted onto the table leg.

Jury
The way the legs are attached beneath the tabletop is the core feature of the product. The leg can be mounted either between two sections or under a single panel. And the meticulous design isn’t restricted to the visible section of the leg either. The connector underneath the tabletop is equally convincing: when locked, the levers lie flush with the rest of the fitting.

Home interiors


Isanka
Basket and upholstered seat


Manufacturer
Walter Knoll AG & Co. KG
D-71083 Herrenberg
www.walterknoll.de

Design
EOOS Design GmbH
A-1010 Vienna
www.eoos.com

Distributor
Walter Knoll AG & Co. KG
D-71083 Herrenberg
www.walterknoll.de

There are three members of the Isanka family: the upholstered seat, a table and a basket for stylish storage of newspapers, books or perhaps even digital devices. Besides all being made of saddle leather, the three elements share other common ground as well: their amorphous shape, a combination of square-but-rounded contours, protruding edges and upturned corners on the base. This results in some interesting transitions between the various forms, and there are triangular handles set into the sides for easy carrying.
Because it is open at the top, the basket needs a supporting plastic frame; the inside is covered with a high-quality textile lining, the outside with the above-mentioned saddle leather. The upholstered seat consists of a cold cure foam filling with an outer layer of wadding and a fabric or leather seat, the table is topped with a panel of black glass. And by the way: the leathers comply with the requirements of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

Jury
A series of products featuring extremely elaborate workmanship with very good detailing and seaming that serves as a design element. The basket is particularly convincing thanks to the soft textile lining on the inside and hardwearing leather on the outside. The integrated handles set into the sides for moving the pieces around are another interesting touch.

Ambience, lifestyle


Logaflame HWS216
Water-bearing fireplace insert


Manufacturer
Bosch Thermotechnik GmbH
D-35576 Wetzlar
www.buderus.de

Design
Stefan Diez Office
D-80469 Munich
www.office.stefan-diez.com

Distributor
Bosch Thermotechnik GmbH – Buderus Deutschland
D-35576 Wetzlar
www.buderus.de


As the colder season approaches, many people begin to dream of settling down in front of a crackling fire, watching the flickering flames and enjoying the inimitable warmth. It therefore comes as no surprise that the market for fireplace inserts, as well as for tiled and wood-burning stoves, is booming. At the same time, aspects such as economical fuel burning and the safe, eco-friendly discharge of exhaust gases are uppermost. In this respect, the water-bearing fireplace insert Logaflame HWS 216 has a particularly convincing point in its favour: thanks to an integrated heat exchanger, half of its eight-kilowatt thermal output is used to heat hot water for the house. That is particularly effective where energy-efficient construction methods and insulation ensure a low heating requirement anyway. The design language is emphatically simple and straightforward. The outer skin consists of robust cast iron, all the visible cast parts are enamelled. A slider permits easy adjustment of the flame size.

Jury
A functional product with a pleasantly reticent form. Nevertheless, the accentuating frame around the flush-fitting window, the distinctive handle and the graphics of the control icons signify excellent design quality. Because it warms both the indoor air and the water, the fireplace insert is particularly economical.

Lighting


LED Lenser P7QC
Torch


Manufacturer
Zweibrüder Optoelectronics GmbH & Co. KG
D-42699 Solingen
www.zweibrueder.com

Design
Inhouse / In-house design
Andre Kunzendorf, Erich Buhl, Stefan Feusel

Distributor
Zweibrüder Optoelectronics Gmbh & Co. KG
D-42699 Solingen
www.zweibrueder.com


The RGBW light-emitting diode in this extremely compact torch produces not just white light but coloured light as well – without the filters that this used to necessitate. When the torch is in use, the colour of the light can be changed by twisting the ring on its shaft. Whilst red light preserves night vision, green is helpful for observing game and blue for crime scene investigations. Thanks to its flashing function, the torch can even be used for making signals too. The scattering characteristics of the prism diffuser have been optimised for the various wavelengths of the LED light. In white-light mode, the torch produces an output of up to 220 lumens.

Jury
With its variable light colour, the LED torch provides a new function that promises to have broad-based appeal. The simple, self-explanatory handling, pleasant touch and feel and premium workmanship are particularly compelling.

Communication, audio, video, optical equipment



Spaces
Space structuring system


Manufacturer
Procedes Square GmbH
D-27809 Lemwerder
www.procedes-square.de

Design
Spek Design
D-70565 Stuttgart
www.spek-design.de

Distributor
Procedes Square GmbH
D-27809 Lemwerder
www.procedes-square.de


Although open-plan offices use the space available very efficiently, it can often be difficult to concentrate within their open structures. Spaces permits island solutions that create a separate acoustic and visual environment: the system ranges from individual partitions and half-open zones all the way to closed, self-supporting space-within-a-space units. Thanks to its modular structure, it can be extended, modified and reconfigured in next to no time – and thus adapts easily to changing team constellations. Produced in Germany, the system also integrates air-conditioning elements, electricity and lighting, as well as hooking the workstations up to the office backbone. Textile surfaces mounted flush with glass elements are a particularly interesting feature. They are available with various textures and can even be printed with customers’ individual motifs.

Jury
A very well thought-through system that integrates all the key functional elements into the design very convincingly. The flush transitions between the surfaces play a major role in creating the aesthetic overall picture. Thanks to the variable basic concept, even the details can be effortlessly adapted to changing requirements.

Leisure, outdoor



K 3.000
High-pressure washer


Manufacturer
Alfred Kärcher GmbH & Co. KG
D-71364 Winnenden
www.kaercher.de

Design
Inhouse / In-house design
and
Pearl Creative / Storti & Rummel GbR
D-71634 Ludwigsburg
www.pearlcreative.com

Distributor
Alfred Kärcher Vetriebs GmbH
D-71364 Winnenden
www.kaercher.de


The compact high-pressure washer for private users can be pulled along like a vacuum cleaner – although in this case by its high-pressure hose. The K 3.000 is thus more mobile than most other members of its kind. Its high ground clearance and four big wheels, the front two of which help steer, make the appliance extremely agile and prevent it tipping over when used on uneven terrain.
In terms of form, the washer immediately stands out from its competitors, features a fully integrated tank for optional detergents and allows all the accessories, i.e. the cable, wands and hose, to be stored directly on the appliance itself. The hose is attached by means of a quick-fit connector.

Jury
An interesting reinterpretation of the high-pressure washer in the form of an SUV for the patio. The appliance’s off-road appearance is not without a certain wit and thus gives it a more emotional appeal than its professional brethren. The hose-based handling seems extremely practical.

Children, family


Beactive+e
E-walker


Manufacturer
Bemotec GmbH
D-72770 Reutlingen
www.bemotec.com

Design
Tricon AG
D-72138 Kirchentellinsfurt
www.tricon-design.de

Distributor
Bemotec GmbH
D-72770 Reutlingen
www.bemotec.com

Many people – not just the elderly – depend on walkers to preserve their mobility. But when the path leads uphill, pushing the device can be sheer torture. An electric drive that kicks in when help is needed and makes even heavily laden walkers easy to move provides an elegant solution.
Two geared motors in the stabilising horizontal sections provide propulsion, the energy comes from a lithium-iron battery in the removable carrier box. The drive is only activated when the capacitive sensors detect that both hands are holding the handles, which are height-adjustable, ergonomically shaped and designed to guard against carpal tunnel syndrome. Besides having two manually activated brakes, the vehicle also brakes itself when going downhill, thus preventing potentially serious falls.
Thanks to the exchangeable panelling and box, the design allows the walker to be customised. The battery capacity is sufficient for nine hours, which equates to a distance of about 30 kilometres. The USB interface can be used to supply energy for additional devices such as LED lights, a GPS module with fall alarm or a smartphone.

Jury
Whilst the walker’s modern appearance helps destigmatise its users, the motor permits greater self-determination and enhances their quality of life. The ergonomic handles are designed for easy manoeuvrability and the walker can be folded up for space-saving storage.

SPORt



Gigadrive Disc
Racing bike


Manufacturer
Merida & Centurion Germany GmbH
D-71106 Magstadt
www.centurion.de

Design
Inhouse / In-house design
Hannes Genze

Distributor
Merida & Centurion Germany GmbH
D-71106 Magstadt
www.centurion.de

Whereas disc brakes have long been standard in the mountain bike segment, road racing bikes still use rim brakes to decelerate, primarily for construction-related reasons. Because disc brakes transmit the braking forces to one side of the fork and rear triangle, a new concept is needed for the frame.
Gigadrive Disc consists of a newly developed full-carbon fork and a carbon fibre frame – both of which are not just extremely light but stiff enough to absorb the braking forces. Weighing in at just 1150 grams, the frame features a classic diamond design and jaunty top tube, as well as various modern details such as the slender and shock-absorbing seat stays that merge with the elegant rear triangle, the exchangeable derailleur hanger and the fully integrated brake and derailleur cables. The latter are already geared towards the latest-generation electronic derailleurs.

Jury
A bicycle that radiates speed and dynamism even at a standstill. The transitions between the frame elements and their different cross-sections are very harmoniously designed, especially where the fork merges seamlessly with the head tube. The integration of the disc brakes is no less exemplary.

Architecture


Eco Plus
Height-adjustable WC element


Manufacturer
Viega GmbH & Co. KG
D-57439 Attendorn
www.viega.de

Design
Artefakt product design
D-64293 Darmstadt
www.artefakt.de

Distributor
Viega GmbH & Co. KG
D-57439 Attendorn
www.viega.de


Barrier-free housing is a necessity – and not just because of the demographic developments taking place in our society. The sanitary facilities play a crucial role in determining whether or not a home can be used by different generations and the physically impaired. One aspect is the toilet seat, which should ideally be height-adjustable.
Viega’s Eco Plus can be moved up or down by as much as eight centimetres – without any motorised mechanism whatsoever. The energy-saving and low-maintenance height adjustment solution is based on a gas spring which, together with the water-saving cistern, is integrated into the pre-wall element. A satin-finish glass cover plate with integrated activator button conceals the necessary opening in the pre-wall. Thanks to its simplicity, the design of the toughened glass panel goes well with all conventional ceramic toilets.

Jury
The product addresses a widespread problem with a solution that is both surprisingly simple and aesthetically compelling. The cover plate, which moves up or down together with the toilet, blends in perfectly with the bathroom, is hygienic and very simple to use.

Public design



Haus der Berge
Exhibition concept


Client
Bayerisches Staatsministerium für Umwelt und Gesundheit
D-81925 Munich
www.stmuv.bayern.de

Design
Atelier Brückner
D-70346 Stuttgart
www.atelier-brueckner.com

The “Haus der Berge” is part of Berchtesgaden National Park, which stretches from the shores of the Königssee to the summit of the legendary Watzmann. The exhibition concept picks up on this vast vertical expanse and guides the visitor up a virtual altitude difference of 2300 metres, all the way to the mountain tops. As he ascends, he passes through the four characteristic habitats found in the park – water, forest, pasture, rock and karst – getting to know the flora and fauna along the way. Changing lighting moods and noises bring the four seasons to life and when he reaches the virtual summit at the end of the tour, he is shown a panoramic movie before the louvered wall opens to reveal a view of the real Watzmann.
Besides presenting a fascinating insight into the multifaceted Alpine landscape, the 900-square-metre exhibition is also intended as an invitation, encouraging visitors to explore the nature park for themselves. The show aims not to create an artificial replica of nature but to find ways of making it accessible.

Jury
An extremely well thought-through and logical presentation of nature that uses the latest multimedia technologies to shed new light on our traditional understanding of the mountains. The simulation of the seasons intensifies our grasp of natural relationships and connections, whilst the exterior and interior of the museum correspond with one another very well.

Transport, traffic



T-Roc
SUV concept


Manufacturer
Volkswagen AG
D-38436 Wolfsburg
www.volkswagenag.com

Design
Volkswagen Design Team
D-38436 Wolfsburg
www.volkswagenag.com

Distributor
Volkswagen AG
D-38436 Wolfsburg
www.volkswagenag.com

VW presented the concept for a new SUV range with a new exterior and interior design at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The compact vehicle, which is based on VW's modular transverse matrix platform (MQB), features short overhangs and a wide track. The SUV is powered by a direct-injection turbodiesel engine and can be driven in three different modes. The parameters of the suspension, transmission and assist systems adapt to the driving mode selected, while the all-wheel drive engages automatically if slip is detected on the front wheels or there is an increase in lateral acceleration.
LED fog lamps and LED spotlights are built into the front headlamps and a moving camera shows obstacles in the car’s path when driving off-road. The interior boasts digital instruments and a digital air conditioning system. A portable tablet computer acts as an infotainment display, and part of the roof is removable.

Jury
A striking, highly emotive and powerful-looking vehicle concept. Interesting use is made of framing as a recurring element that manifests itself throughout the design, drawing attention to various features by enclosing them within some kind of border. The removable roof is a first in the SUV sector.
focus open 2014

special mention results

focus open 2014 - special mention results

focus open 2014

results