PolyU Design Showcases Design and AI Innovations at The Global AI Forum

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design extended a warm welcome to the guests from THE Global AI Forum hosted by the university. The Forum, bringing together academics, researchers, and thought leaders worldwide, focused on sharing and discussing the latest AI ethics developments on 29 November 2024.   During their stay in PolyU, the Forum’s attendees joined a guided tour of School of Design.  Our Associate Dean Prof. Yan Tina Luximon introduced the art tech and AI related design research projects of PolyU Design to the guests. These included a social robot embedded with a large language model designed to alleviate stress among the Hong Kong population by Prof. Johan H. Hoorn, AI-enhanced 3D head scanning technology and related product development by Prof. Luximon, and an empathetic navigation system design based on driver's emotion inference from traffic contextual data by Prof. Stephen Wang. The guests also had the opportunity to appreciate the works of this year's graduating students. In addition, Ms Margaret Lam, Associate Director of Campus Development also introduced the amazing architecture of Jockey Club Innovation Tower to the visitors.   Through this event, PolyU Design engaged in an in-depth exchange with AI experts from around the world, once again showcasing its forward-looking and significant position in design and Art tech research within the design field. We all look forward to receiving more academic peers and collaborators in the future.

Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Architecture: Training Architectural Talent with the Latest Smart Building Technologies

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University introduces the Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Architectural Studies, a collaborative programme between the Department of Building and Real Estate (BRE) (host) and School of Design (co-host). This programme extends the School of Design's legacy in spatial design education, focusing on human-centred principles and integrating design practices with advanced technology. About the programme: Innovative Design Practices: Students use design materialisation to blend creative thinking with technological advancements. Studio Environment: PolyU Design provides a collaborative studio workspace for architecture students. The studio allows students to work on real-world projects and receive industry and academic expert's mentorship. Capstone Design Project: Before graduation, students undertake a capstone project, led by PolyU Design, demonstrating their ability to tackle comprehensive real-world challenges through research, design, and problem-solving. Programme Highlights: Practical Learning: The School of Design’s studios offer practical experiences that foster creativity and collaboration with industry experts. Capstone Project: Through the capstone project, students showcase their skills in addressing complex architectural issues, reflecting their readiness for professional practice.Incorporating advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality (AR/VR), PolyU Design emphasises sustainable architectural solutions that balance environmental considerations with community development. This initiative marks a significant step in redefining architectural education at PolyU Design, together with its partner BRE. For more information, please click here. If you are interested in the PolyU Design Environmental Design or Interior Design  programme, please click the links below. Environmental design Interior design

Designing Time: Leadership Forum 2024 Recap

The "Leadership Forum 2024 Designing Time," part of the Business of Design Week (BODW) organised by PolyU Design, supported by the Hong Kong Design Centre, concluded successfully on November 29th. This forum was dedicated to creating experiences and interactions that engage our senses across various design disciplines. It emphasised the idea of designing time within diverse spaces such as homes, structures, or public areas like campus squares to foster immersive experiences and meaningful interactions that resonate with all senses, contributing to diverse cultures over time.   The event featured distinguished guests, including Prof. Kun Pyo Lee, Mr Benny Leong, Mr King Chung, Mr Yanta Lam, and Mr Patrick Bruce, alongside former PolyU Design Deans Prof. Lorraine Justice and Prof. Cees De Bont. These are all influential figures who have contributed to the development of PolyU Design and the design industry in Hong Kong over the past decades.   This Leadership Forum encouraged participants to reflect on PolyU Design's significant role in Hong Kong's design history and witness its development and contributions over time.  Prof. Kun Pyo Lee shared the opening remarks. Mr Patrick Bruce, Director, The Oval Partnership Mr Yanta Lam, CEO & Founder, ChinaDesign Research Work Group Prof. Cees De Bont, Head, Division of Industrial Design, National University of Singapore Prof. Lorraine Justice, Dean Emeritus, School of Design, Rochester Institute of Technology Mr King Chung Siu, Former Associate Dean & SD History Project Curator, School of Design, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Mr Benny Leong, Professor of Practice, School of Design, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University   2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Opening Remarks: Prof. Kun Pyo Lee 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Mr Yanta Lam 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Mr Patrick BRUCE 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Prof. Cees De Bont 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Prof. Lorraine Justice 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Mr Benny Leong 2024 Leadership Forum – Designing Time, Mr King Chung Siu

Creative Exploration at Education Corner Workshop 2024 Concludes Successfully

Education Corner Creative Workshop 2024, a 3-day workshop series, has officially concluded on 7 December 2024. Making a comeback to the DesignInspire Expo at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre after a few editions, it has not only successfully attracted secondary school students but also primary school kids and the public to flex their creative muscles at the three creative workshops offered by the PolyU School of Design, teaming up with school alumni and workshop tutors. Workshop A: Plastic Fantastic - Collective Art Installation by Kuk Po Get Together (重聚谷埔團隊) Learning more about the current recycling plastic industry, Participants rediscover the little details of the ubiquitous plastic bags found in everyday life, patch them together into a collage artwork that will be displayed in a collective lights installation of the upcoming Kuk Po Get Together Art Festival (谷埔豐年節）in January 2025. Workshop B: Traditional Paper Crafting Workshop - Kite Making by Zaat Hap Laa (紮合啦) Through creating their own unique kite design, participants learned foundational skills in traditional paper craftmanship and the benefits of using bamboo and other natural materials, guided through intricate processes of the heritage. Workshop C: 'Local Material to Local Needs' Workshop by Recoso Design Studio In the two-hour hands-on tinkering workshop, participants were introduced to the “Local Resources to Local Needs” concept, shedding a different light on the wisdom of the neighbors adapting ordinary hardware materials into useful daily tools with function or as self-expression. Thank you all who have participated in the 2024 edition and we look forward to seeing you again! ABOUT EDUCATION CORNEREducation Corner is a concurrent event of the Business of Design Week. This series of creative workshops aimed at increasing secondary school students' interest and participation in design and creativity. The teams from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design and Hong Kong Design Institute have teamed up to present the workshops.

PolyU Design Hosts 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner "Designing Time" to Unite Industry and Alumni and Passing on the Spirit of Creativity

（中文版在本頁底部） (December 4th, 2024) The 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design (hereafter referred to as "PolyU Design" or "the School") was held on 29th November at Cloud 39 of The Henderson. As the grand finale of PolyU Design’s 60th-anniversary celebrations, the evening brought together leading figures from business, design, culture, and public sectors, including Dr Eric Yim, MH, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Design Centre and Chairman of Advisory Committee of PolyU School of Design; Prof. Teng Jin-guang, President of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean of PolyU School of Design; Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, GBS, JP, Chief Executive Officer of The Hong Kong Jockey Club; Dr Victor Lo, GBM, GBS, OBE, JP, Chairman and President of Gold Peak Industries (Holdings) Limited; Ms Marjorie Yang, Chairman of Esquel Group, and renowned design luminaries such as Mr Henry Steiner, Dr Kan Tai-Keung SBS, BBS, AGI, Mr Tino Kwan and Mr Freeman Lau, among others. Event initiator is Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean of PolyU School of Design; Co-Chairs of the event are Mr. Dennis Chan, co-founder and creative director of Qeelin and Ms Grace Lau, Curatorial Director, Fine Art Asia. Together, they witnessed this important milestone in PolyU Design’s journey of excellence. Guest of Honour Dr Eric Yim, MH, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Design Centre and Chairman of Advisory Committee of PolyU School of Design, delivered the keynote speech at the 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner. A Globally Renowned Design Institution Nurturing Exceptional Talents As one of the world’s top 20 design schools, PolyU Design has long been a hub of design education and research in Hong Kong, dedicated to offering high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that cultivate exceptional design talents. In his keynote speech, Guest of Honor Dr Eric Yim, praised the School for its outstanding achievements, stating: “PolyU Design’s alumni are the living embodiment of the School’s legacy and success. They stand as shining examples of the transformative power of education and training at School of Design. Their journeys from students to industry leaders are testaments not only to their own growth but also to the collective advancement of the design community. Their achievements inspire current and future students, showcasing the boundless possibilities and potential within the realm of design.” PolyU President Prof. Teng Jin-guang reiterated the university’s commitment to education and innovation: “As we look to the future, we see a world faced with many unprecedented challenges - from climate change to socioeconomic inequality, from ageing populations to digital transformation. I am however confident that the School of Design will be able to harness the transformative power of design to address these pressing global challenges and nurture socially responsible graduates for the future, just as it has done for the past six decades, living up to PolyU’s motto, ‘To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind’.” Prof. Jin-Guang Teng, President of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean of the PolyU School of Design Dean of PolyU School of Design, Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, added: “Tonight I see the faces of those who have shaped our journey—our dedicated former and current faculty, innovative students, supportive partners, and accomplished alumni. Together, we’ve built more than just a design school; we’ve created a community that redefines what design can achieve. Our vision is clear – to be a world-leading design school that harnesses creativity and innovation to address society’s most pressing challenges. With your continued partnership, I’m confident we will achieve even greater heights in the decades to come.”   Prof. Lee further represents PolyU Design in expressing heartfelt gratitude to patrons whose generous contributions have made the event possible and supported the future of design education. They include Dr Victor Lo, AB Concept, Dr Eric Yim, Ms Marjorie Yang, Mr Dennis Chan & Mr Tino Kwan, Mr Freeman Lau & Dr Roy Chung GBS JP, Dean and management of PolyU School of Design, Mr Tommy Li, Ms Grace Lau, The Bees Holdings Limited, Mr James O, Ms Amy Wong and On Your Mark Design Laboratory. As the grand finale to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of PolyU Design, the dinner brings together elites from Hong Kong's business, design, cultural, and public sectors.2nd row (from left):  Mr Dennis Chan, Mr Stefan Sonntag, Dr Brian Lee, Prof Cees de Bont, Prof Kun-Pyo Lee, Dr Eric Yim, Mr Tino Kwan, Ms Marjorie Yang, Dr Victor Lo, Ms Grace Lau, Prof Lorraine Justice, Mr Tommy Li, Mr Henry Steiner, Mr Freeman Lau, Dr. Gerhard Bruyns, Ms Rennie Kan and Mr Alex Fung1st row (from left):  Mr Ed Ng, Mr Michael Miller Yu, Ms Ivy Lau, Mr Sin Tze Kong, Mr Ron Leung and Ms Elaine Chow   Alumni performances during the dinner elevated the atmosphere to its peak. Partnering with Christie’s as a Charity Auction Partner to Support Emerging Designers Together with the Industry Additionally, the School conveyed sincere appreciation for the doners who contributed auction items during the event, they include Mr Dennis Chan, Mr Edward Lam, Ms Elaine Chow, Mr Freeman Lau, Frog King, Mr Henry Steiner, Dr Kan Tai-Keung, Mr Man Lim Chung, mtm labo, Mr Ron Leung, Mr So Hing Keung and Mr Tony Tam.   The gala dinner invited Christie’s as the auction partner, with Ms. Sara Mao, Director of Christie’s Education, Head of Strategic Growth Initiatives, Christie’s Asia Pacific, serving as the auctioneer for some of the evening’s exquisite items. Ms. Mao has extensive experience in auctioneering rare items. The auction atmosphere was vibrant in the event.  Proceeds from the auction, after covering net costs, will be dedicated to supporting student development initiatives.   This Gala Dinner not only celebrated 60 years of the School’s accomplishments but also reflected on the evolution of design and envisioned its future impact on Hong Kong. Held at The Henderson, a masterpiece by Zaha Hadid Architects—a practice founded by the late Dame Zaha Hadid—serves as a significant event venue that parallels the architectural brilliance of the Jockey Club Innovation Tower, also designed by Zaha Hadid Architects and home to the School since 2014. Both structures epitomize the spirit of innovation and creativity. The gala dinner invited Christie's as the auction partner, with Ms Sara Mao, Director of Christie’s Education, Head of Strategic Growth Initiatives, Christie’s Asia Pacific, serving as the auctioneer for some of the evening's exquisite items. A major highlight of the 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner was the venue design and setup, which was undertaken by current students from the School of Design (like the display setup for the auction items shown in the photo). The participating students, from the disciplines of Environment and Interior Design, Communication Design, Advertising, and Product Design, applied their knowledge from the School to create a creative and memorable experience for the guests. Supporting Emerging Designers and Sustaining Creative Legacy A highlight of the evening was the creative venue décor, conceptualized and executed by PolyU Design’s current students. Participants included undergraduate students from Environmental and Interior Design, Communication Design, Advertising, and Product Design programmes. Under the guidance of distinguished alumni, these students applied their knowledge to craft a unique and unforgettable experience for guests, showcasing their creativity and talent.   Co-Chair of the 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner Steering Committee, Mr. Dennis Chan, remarked, “This gala is not only a platform for alumni and industry friends to reunite but also an invaluable opportunity for students to apply their learning in a real-world setting. We are honored to witness how the next generation of designers takes the stage and demonstrates their potential.”   Fellow Co-Chair, Ms Grace Lau, added, “It’s a rare and invaluable opportunity for students to participate in a project of this scale before graduation. Working alongside industry professionals, they have laid a strong foundation for their future careers.” Celebrating 60 Years of Design Excellence The 60th Anniversary Gala Dinner honoured the School’s legacy while looking forward to a promising future. PolyU Design remains steadfast in its mission to advance design education, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and nurture more outstanding design talents, continuing to make significant contributions to Hong Kong and the global design community. The school would also like to express its gratitude to AQUA PRO+TECH, mtm labo, and PYE sponsoring the event’s gifts.   About PD60 Gala Dinner Steering Committee Co-Chairs: Dennis Chan, Grace Lau Event initiator: Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee Committee Members: Elaine Chow, Ivy Lau, Ron Leung, Sin Tze Kong About PolyU School of Design PolyU Design has been an important hub of design education and research for Hong Kong for 60 years. The School is ranked among 20th global top schools on the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) art and design rankings. Academic programmes are offered at bachelor, master, and doctoral levels in highly diverse design expertise including product design, interaction design, information design, advertising design, media design, interior design, environmental design, social design, service design, transitional environments design, innovative business design, intelligent systems design, smart service design, and innovative multimedia entertainment. The School has made substantial research contributions in Asian ergonomics and lifestyle, universal design, and creative art, and is currently focused on research initiatives in social design, design economy, and design making. PolyU Design attaches equal importance to design theory and application, actively promotes interdisciplinary cooperation and learning, emphasises high-quality design education, conducts high-level research, and maintains close connections with various sectors of government and business to provide various consulting and design services. The School provides a well-equipped teaching and learning environment in the Jockey Club Innovation Tower, a landmark building designed by the late Zaha Hadid. High resolution photos download    ***End*** For media enquiries and interview requests, please contact Say It Loud : Venus Wong 6046 5327 / Crystal Chan  9468 6388 venus@sayitloud.com.hk  crystal@sayitloud.com.hk   理大「時日在設計」60週年 壓軸慶典晚宴 共同推動香港設計發展 傳承創意精神 (2024年12月4日)香港理工大學設計學院(「理大設計」或「學院」) 60週年慶典晚宴已於11月29日假城中矚目新地標The Henderson的Cloud 39宴會廳盛大舉行。作為慶祝理大設計60周年的壓軸項目，晚宴雲集商業、設計、文化及公共領域的精英，包括香港設計中心主席暨理大設計學院學院顧問委員會主席嚴志明博士MH JP、香港理工大學校長滕錦光教授、理大設計學院院長李健杓教授、香港賽馬會行政總裁應家柏先生GBS JP、金山科技工業有限公司主席兼總裁羅仲榮博士 GBM GBS OBE JP、溢達集團董事長楊敏德女士、石漢瑞先生、靳埭强博士 SBS, BBS, AGI、關永權先生及劉小康先生等。發起人為理大設計學院院長李健杓教授；聯合主席為Qeelin 麒麟創辦人及創意總監陳瑞麟先生及亞藝博策展總監劉君𤩹女士，一同見證理大設計學院的重要里程。 香港理工大學設計學院60周年慶典晚宴主禮嘉賓香港設計中心主席暨理大設計學院學院顧問委員會主席嚴志明博士MH JP 國際知名設計學府 成就卓越人才 作為全球二十大設計學府之一，理大設計一直是香港設計教育與研究的重要樞紐，致力於提供優質本科及研究生設計課程，培育出無數具創意天賦的設計人才。主禮嘉賓嚴志明博士在致辭中讚揚了設計學院的卓越成就：「理大設計的校友是印證學院傳承與成功的最佳代表，充份體現學院教育和培訓為業界帶來的變革力量。由莘莘學子蛻變成為行業領袖，他們的成長過程不僅見證了其自身的進步，也反映了整個設計界的共同發展。一眾校友的豐盛成就激勵著在校生與未來的學生，展示了設計領域中無限的可能性與潛力。」  香港理工大學校長滕錦光教授致辭 香港理工大學校長滕錦光教授則強調了大學對教育與創新的承諾，他說：「展望未來，我們面對許多前所未有的挑戰——從氣候變化到社會經濟不平等，從人口老化到數位轉型。然而，我相信設計學院能夠利用設計的變革力量來應對這些迫在眉睫的全球挑戰，並培養出具社會責任的畢業生，就如同過去六十年，實踐理工大學的校訓：『開物成務，勵學利民』。」   設計學院院長李健杓教授補充道：「今天晚上，我看到那些與學校一起塑造整個旅程的面孔——我們敬業的前任和現任教職員、充滿創意的學生、支持我們的夥伴以及成就卓越的校友。我們不僅共同建立起一所設計學院；我們更創造了一個重新定義設計能夠實現什麼的社區。我們的願景明確——成為一所世界領先的設計學院，利用創意和創新來應對社會最迫切的挑戰。在你們持續的支持下，我相信在未來的幾十年，我們將會再創高峰。」  香港理工大學設計學院院長李健杓教授致辭 李教授進一步代表香港理工大學設計學院，對於慷慨捐助的贊助人表示衷心致意，他們的貢獻使活動得以舉行並支持設計教育的未來。贊助人包括羅仲榮博士、AB Concept、嚴志明博士、楊敏德女士、陳瑞麟先生及關永權先生、劉小康先生及鍾志平博士GBS JP、理工大學設計學院院長及管理層、李永銓先生、劉君𤩹女士、The Bees Holdings Limited、柯興邦先生、黃可恩女士及On Your Mark Design Laboratory。 作為慶祝理大設計60周年的壓軸項目，晚宴雲集香港商業、設計、文化及公共領域的精英第二行（左起）： 陳瑞麟先生、Stefan Sonntag 先生、李宇軒博士、方啟思教授、李健杓教授、嚴志明博士、關永權先生、楊敏德女士、羅仲榮博士 、劉君𤩹女士、Lorraine Justice教授、李永銓先生、石漢瑞先生、劉小康先生、卓淮德博士、簡頴兒女士及馮崇裕先生第一行（左起）： 伍仲匡先生、余奉祖先生、劉海慧女士、冼子光先生、梁昆剛先生及周思彤女士 一眾校友於晚宴上的精彩表演將氣氛推至高峰。 獲佳士得作為慈善拍賣夥伴 與業界一同共襄支持設計新貴 此外，對於在活動期間捐贈拍賣物品的捐贈者，設計學院也表示謝意，他們包括陳瑞麟先生、寶林軒林梓華先生、周思彤女士、劉小康先生、蛙王、石漢瑞先生、靳埭強博士、文念中先生、mtm labo、梁昆剛先生、蘇慶強先生和譚可富先生。   晚宴更邀得佳士得作為今次的拍賣合作夥伴，並由亞太區美術學院總監暨策略發展規劃主管毛國靖女士作為當晚部分珍品的拍賣官，毛女士擁有豐富珍品拍賣經驗。當晚拍賣氣氛熾熱，籌得理想善款，扣除成本後將用於學生發展。   是次晚宴不僅是對學院過去60年成就的致敬，更是對設計演變歷程的反思，以及對香港未來發展的展望。晚宴於由已故建築師扎哈・哈迪德（Dame Zaha Hadid）設計成立的扎哈・哈迪德建築事務所（Zaha Hadid Architects）設計的The Henderson舉行，與學院自2014年扎根的賽馬會創新樓一脈相承，意義非凡。當晚來自全球的設計業界翹楚、校友及學院師生濟濟一堂，共同慶賀學院過去的成就，同時交流創意設計的未來方向。 晚宴邀得佳士得作為拍賣合作夥伴，並由亞太區美術學院總監暨策略發展規劃主管毛國靖女士作為當晚部分珍品的拍賣官。 學院60週年慶典晚宴的一大亮點是由設計學院在校學生負責場地設計與佈置(如圖示展示拍賣品的裝置)，參與的學生來自環境及室內設計、傳意設計、廣告及產品設計學科，運用他們在學院所學知識，為賓客打造了一場既充滿創意又難忘的體驗。   支持未來設計新秀 延續創意傳統   晚宴的一大亮點是由設計學院在校學生負責場地設計與佈置，參與的學生來自環境及室內設計、傳意設計、廣告及產品設計學科，運用他們在學院所學知識，為賓客打造了一場既充滿創意又難忘的體驗。   學院60週年晚宴籌備委員會聯合主席陳瑞麟表示：「這次晚宴不僅是凝聚校友及業界好友的平台，更是學生展示所學及實踐創意的機會。我們很榮幸見證新一代設計師如何接棒，展現他們的潛力。」另一位聯合主席劉君𤩹則補充：「學生們能在畢業前參與如此大型的實際項目，與業界精英合作，真正做到學以致用，為他們的職業生涯打下堅實基礎。」 設計六十載 展望未來 理大設計60週年晚宴既是對過往成就的禮讚，也是對未來設計發展的展望。學院將繼續致力於推動創意教育及跨學科合作，培育更多卓越設計人才，為香港及全球設計界作出更多貢獻。同時，學院亦感謝AQUA PRO+TECH、mtm labo及PYE 派贊助當晚嘉賓的入場禮物。     關於香港理工大學設計學院60週年慶典晚宴籌備委員會 聯合主席：陳瑞麟、劉君𤩹 發起人：李健杓教授 籌委會成員: 周思彤、劉海慧、梁昆剛及冼子光     關於香港理工大學設計學院 六十年以來，理大設計一直是香港設計教育與研究的重要樞紐。學院成就備受國際認同，於「QS世界大學排名」藝術及設計科目中一直排於全球首二十之列，二零二零年更被列入第十五位。   理大設計理論與應用並重，積極推動跨學科合作和學習，注重優質設計教育，進行各類高瞻研究，同時與政商各界連繫緊密，提供各類諮詢及設計服務。   學院提供學士、碩士及博士學位課程，涵蓋多個設計專業：產品設計、交互設計、信息設計、廣告設計、媒體設計、室內設計、環境設計、社會創新設計、服務創新設計、城市環境設計、創新商業設計、智能系統設計、智慧服務設計、多媒體創娛等。   除此之外，學院在亞洲人體工學及生活方式、通用設計以及創意藝術方面的研究貢獻顯著，目前專注於社會設計、設計經濟和設計實踐的研究倡議。   學院基地為賽馬會創新樓，由已故著名建築師Zaha Hadid設計，提供優秀完善的教學環境。 下載高清圖片 媒體查詢及訪問詳情，請聯絡Say It Loud : Venus Wong 6046 5327 / Crystal Chan  9468 6388 venus@sayitloud.com.hk  crystal@sayitloud.com.hk ***完***          

Smart Service Design for the Low-Altitude Economy: Students Innovate Delivery Solutions for Hong Kong’s Outlying Islands

2025 is all about promoting the development of the low-altitude economy (LAE)! As we approach the end of the year, our master's students in the Smart Service Design (SSD) programme have just completed a studio project focusing on designing delivery and logistics services for the population and visitors in Hong Kong's outlying islands. With support from S.F. Express (Hong Kong) Limited (SFHK), whose parent company has been recently listed in Hong Kong, our six teams of students explored application scenarios for deploying drones for service delivery. Leveraging the low-altitude airspace and addressing the dense population in Hong Kong, the teams chose to design service solutions in the pilot project for groups located in remote areas with relatively limited access to medical care and delivery services. Students used user journey, service road map, system map, stakeholder map, and impact map to articulate how the low-altitude activities can benefit the community, brand, and economy. The project is under the SSD's 13-week studio-based subject 'Interdisciplinary Studio' providing multidisciplinary students with an opportunity to identify integrated design, business, and technology problems associated with challenges that can be applied to the services sector. Industry Partner: S.F. Express (Hong Kong) Limited SFHK Representatives attending the presentation: Mr Kenny Lau, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong & Macau Region; Mr Dixan Mak, Head of Marketing Department; Mr Charles Chan, Head of Marketing Promotions Team, Marketing Department; Subject Leader: Mr Dominic Leung (PolyU Design) Specialism Leader: Dr Shera Park (PolyU Design)

Prof. Henry Duh's digital Representation of Yan Fu Showcases AI's Potential at the Exhibition

Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly, and many industries, including design, are incorporating AI technology into their fields. Our Associate Dean Prof. Henry Duh's latest project, showcased in the "Chinese Culture and its Modernisation: Yan Fu’s Legacy" exhibition, integrates interactive multimedia displays that combine contemporary art, documentaries, and AI technology. This installation allows visitors to interact with the digital avatar of Mr Yan Fu, facilitating a deep exploration of his philosophical beliefs.   This interactive installation harnesses the latest AI technology to create and shape a digital avatar's modelling, appearance, and voice. Drawing from historical photos and data and employing the voices of trained actors, the team utilises generative AI technology to depict Yan Fu's image. To enhance the authenticity of the character portrayal, the research team delves further into expressions and lip sync, refining details. By leveraging language models of other Chinese historical figures, they construct a more comprehensive historical backdrop for Yan Fu, aiming to offer users an immersive experience. In addition to this project, Research Centre for Cultural and Art Technology and PolyU-NVIDIA Joint Research Centre led by Prof. Duh will host an exhibition in January featuring a range of design research projects related to AI. This showcase will include the project "Beauty of Cantonese Porcelain" entries from “The AI-Powered Legacy” 48 Hours AI filmmaking competition, and more. Stay tuned if you are keen on delving into the intersection of AI with design and art. The "Chinese Culture and its Modernisation: Yan Fu’s Legacy" exhibition currently happens at the Gallery of Jockey Club Innovation Tower is part of the celebration of the 30th anniversary of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) as a university. It is led by PolyU and co-organised by the Fujian Yan Fu Academic Research Association, Fujian Chuanzheng Culture Management Committee, and Fujian Culture and Economy Exchange Center. For details, click here.    

Speeches at The 30th Congregation - School of Design

Congregation Speech by - The Honourable Bernard Charnwut Chan GBM, GBZ, JP Chairman of the M+ Board   Welcoming Address by Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean of School of Design and Swire Chair Professor of Design, Alex Wong Siu Wah Gigi Wong Fook Chi Professor in Product Design Engineering   Valedictory Speech by Miss Tsang Tsz Ning - AM Session Valedictory Speech by Miss Yelena Chan- PM Session   Welcoming Address by Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean of School of Design and Swire Chair Professor of Design, Alex Wong Siu Wah Gigi Wong Fook Chi Professor in Product Design Engineering Good afternoon, esteemed parents, distinguished colleagues, and graduates of the School of Design.   It fills me with immense joy to stand before you today, particularly as we gather to celebrate a very special occasion—the 60th anniversary of our School. We are  not merely celebrating your remarkable achievements, but also a proud history of innovation and education that has defined us for the past six decades.   Reflecting on these 60 years, I am reminded of the essence of design itself: the ability to adapt, innovate, and inspire. We have continually embraced new challenges, reforming education and opening new avenues for design education and research. From our humble beginnings to becoming a leader in design innovation, you should be immensely proud to be part of this legacy. Your journey is a continuation of this rich history, and I assure you, the spirit of innovation in education will persist for many years to come.   As you celebrate your accomplishments, I want to acknowledge the important role of some very special people in your journey. I'm speaking, of course, of your family members and professors, whose support and guidance have contributed to both your academic success and personal growth. Let's take a moment to thank them for their encouragement.   Graduation marks not just the end of a chapter but the exciting beginning of a new one. As you transition into this next phase of your lives, it's essential to recognize that the knowledge and skills you've gained here should extend far beyond the confines of our institution. Embrace the chance to broaden your horizons, venture into new fields, and challenge yourselves to step outside your comfort zones. Let your curiosity lead the way, inspiring you to explore, innovate, and discover the vast possibilities that lie ahead.   As you step into the future, I urge you to adopt a more critical approach to design. In an age where AI is becoming prominent, or even dominant, strive to create more human-centered solutions. Consider how your designs can enhance the human experience, making technology work for us rather than the other way around. Work collaboratively across disciplines to tackle increasingly complex design challenges. Be inclusive by embracing the diversity of users—genders, ages, backgrounds—and remember that this inclusivity will enrich not only your designs but also reflect our vibrant society.   Moreover, I encourage you to be entrepreneurial. Take risks; innovate; don’t shy away from failure—it is often a stepping stone to success. The design world is ever-evolving, and the most impactful designers are those who are willing to challenge the status quo and envision new possibilities. Remember that significant breakthroughs often come from those who dare to think differently.   As you embark on your professional journeys, remember that SD is your home. Always feel welcome to return, share your achievements, and even your failures. Our alumni network is a vital resource that can offer guidance and support as you navigate your future. Engage with your fellow alumni; seek mentorship; foster connections that will sustain you throughout your career. The relationships you build here will be invaluable assets as you move forward.   In conclusion, I extend my sincerest congratulations to each and every one of you. Your achievements not only bring pride to our institution but also inspire those who will follow in your footsteps. As you embark on this new journey—armed with creativity and a commitment to lifelong learning—I have no doubt that you will shape a remarkable and transformative future—one that continues to uphold the values and vision of the School of Design.   Thank you, and hearty congratulations to all of you!   Valedictory Speech by Miss Tsang Tsz Ning - AM Session Good morning, Honourable guests, professors, parents, fellow graduates, ladies, and gentlemen, welcome to the School of Design Congregation.   I am Tsang Tsz, as known as TT, a graduate of Digital Media Design, and it’s my pleasure to stand here as a representative of the graduating class this year. This could never been possible without the help of all the special people. I would like to thank you, professors, and tutors, for giving us guidance on our paths and showing so much love and care to us. Thank you, administrators, for greatly supporting us in our projects, during the hectic days before project deadlines. Thank you, parents, for the care, belief, understanding and ‘allowing’ us to burn the midnight oil. Thank you, classmates, for spending countless days and nights fighting through intensive deadlines. Thank you, yourselves, for surviving and growing from the challenges and not giving up. A round of applause for yourselves and those who have been part of this journey.   We did it! Together, we have scripted a rich chapter at the School of Design, filled with countless extraordinary moments shared with amazing individuals. It is hard to squeeze every remarkable moment in this speech, but I will try my best not to miss any of them.   I remember the time returning to reality, the time after countless online lessons and stepping into a whole new environment with a room of talented peers. I was a mix of anxiety and excitement, pondering how I would navigate the coming years, am I gonna survive? Yes, I survived, and we all survived with encouragement and tolerance in SD.   Here, We learn, We laugh, We inspire, We stumble, We celebrate, We criticise ourselves at night and questioning our decisions and ideas, only to rise early the next morning for presentations. No doubt that the challenges and efforts we've invested have not only strengthened us but also fostered creativity and deep bonds among us.   We aren't just honing technical skills but also developing essential soft skills that underpin and elevate our creativity. My experience in DM has forged me to be a better creator, storyteller, and skillful person. Apart from regular lessons, there are exposure to diverse animation and film-related insights via sharing sessions, site visits, and overseas study trips, our learning experience has been not just informative but also enjoyable. We've grasped the synergy of content and skills, which has become the cornerstone of our future creations.   In DM, our supportive teachers, including Jae, Step, Amelie, and tutors in DM, go above and beyond to provide guidance and advice to enhance our creations. I extend a special thanks to them for their full-fledged support. Additionally, my caring classmates have always shown genuine interest in my project goals. I am very grateful to my groupmates who collaborated with me on various projects, their dedication and teamwork have been invaluable. Yet, thank you for spending countless nights together in Discord playing catchy music and trying to make the impossible possible.   I want to express my heartfelt appreciation to the School of Design for curating a community of talented individuals. It is within this diverse and inspiring environment that we have had the privilege to engage, communicate, and learn from one another. The opportunities presented to us by the school have not only enriched our educational experience but have also played a pivotal role in shaping us into the creative individuals we are today. Thank you for fostering a space where innovation thrives, and where each of us has been able to explore our passions and talents with unwavering support.   Here we are turning a new chapter of our life. It's normal to feel a sense of loss when facing an uncertain future. The unknown can be daunting, stirring up feelings of anxiety and nostalgia as we leave behind what we know. But within this mix of emotions, there is room for growth and change. Although we may not be able to work together as we did in school, remember the lessons and experiences we have gained that are shaping us now. The world is vast, but design unites us, offering the opportunity to collaborate again someday.   Let’s tackle this journey with purpose, understanding that each small step we take is a building block in our life story. Progress occurs gradually, so keep moving forward. Each tiny step matters. Stay humble, be creative, continue to create, and aim high!   Once again congratulations and wish you all the best in the future, Thank you!   Valedictory Speech by Miss Yelena Chan- PM Session   Distinguished guests, members of the Faculty, professors, my fellow graduates, ladies, and gentlemen, good afternoon.   Today, we gather to celebrate a monumental milestone in our lives as we graduate from the PolyU School of Design. Can you believe it? We made it!   As I stand here, I’m filled with immense gratitude. First and foremost, I would like to say thank you to our professors. Your unwavering support and guidance have shaped us into the designers we are today. Every late-night critique, every brainstorming session, and every word of encouragement helped us grow. You challenged us to think critically and creatively—and occasionally made us question our life choices at 2 a.m.! For that, we are forever thankful.   And let’s not forget our incredible cleaning staff! Thank you for maintaining our studios and ensuring a conducive learning environment. Seriously, after all those late nights, our studios often resembled a tornado-hit craft store! Your hard work frequently goes unnoticed, but we appreciate you more than you know.   To our families and friends—what an incredible support system you’ve been! Your love, patience, and encouragement have been our lifeline. You stood by us during our sleepless nights and stressful deadlines, reminding us of what truly matters: balance and support. Thank you for believing in us when we sometimes didn’t even believe in ourselves. Your faith has carried us through this journey.   Now, let’s talk about our journey. Many of us are taking our first steps today, while some of us also joined in 2022. Despite our different backgrounds and experiences, we’ve become a family here at PolyU. We’ve spent countless hours together—often more than we spent with our own families—pouring our hearts and souls into projects, working tirelessly day and night, and yes, even on weekends.   Let’s be real for a moment. Surviving studio life required some serious hacks! Who here has spent a night in the studio? I see you! We became experts at overnight survival: ready packs of snacks, instant cup noodles, blankets, and even beds. Yes, beds! We learned to hide under tables just to avoid the security guard’s questioning glare. And after those long nights, we’d treat each other to breakfast in the morning, fueling up for the critiques and tutorials that awaited us.   Throughout these years, I’ve learned some invaluable lessons that I will carry with me into the future: spontaneity, efficiency, and persistence.   Spontaneity—the ability to adapt and think on our feet—has been crucial in our design journey. From last-minute project changes to surprise critiques, we’ve learned that flexibility is not just important; it’s essential!   Then there’s efficiency. We quickly discovered that success isn’t just about hard work; it’s about working smart. Juggling multiple projects taught us to streamline our processes—a skill that will undoubtedly serve us well in our future careers.   And let’s not forget about persistence—the champion of our time at PolyU. Design is full of challenges, and we’ve faced our fair share of criticism and setbacks. But each obstacle only made us stronger. We learned that failure is not the end; it’s just a stepping stone on our path to success, and sometimes it becomes the best story to share at reunions!   As we prepare to step out into the world, we’re ready to break free from our comfort zones and face whatever comes our way. Armed with the skills and mindset we’ve developed, we’re ready to tackle real-world problems and make a meaningful impact.   Let’s take a moment to consider the true essence of design. It’s not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about balancing art and engineering to solve problems and enhance lives. Our work goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about making a meaningful impact on the world. Let’s embrace this principle as we move forward, knowing our designs can shape a better future!   As we wrap up this chapter and turn the page to the next, I encourage each of you to carry with you the lessons we’ve learned and the friendships we’ve forged. Let’s step boldly into the world, confident that we’re ready to make a difference.   Before I finish, let’s take a moment to celebrate ourselves for the hard work and determination that brought us here today. Congratulations, Class of 2024! Here’s to our future and the incredible adventures that await us!   Thank you!  

PolyU Design garners accolades in the Singapore Art Design Competition 2024

Congratulations to Dr Anthony Kong on receiving The Excellent Instructor Honour. In addition, our MSc graduates, Angelina Not, Yanxuan Fan, Bohan Yang, Shuyu Chen, and Xinrun Wu, under the supervision of Dr Kong and Joel Kwong, were awarded the bronze prize in the Singapore Art Design Competition 2024 with "True Nod." "True Nod" explores unconscious agreement in social interactions and its negative impacts. It modernises "The Little Match Girl" story into a Unity-based VR animation to effectively communicate the essence of conformism. The goal is to engage the audience and promote independent thinking among young people using art and technology.  Organised by the Singapore Fine Arts Research Association (SFARA), the competition highlights the importance of integration and fosters interdisciplinary in design. The accomplishments not only recognises the exceptional talents of our students and the dedication of our faulty member, but also brings international recognition to PolyU Design on the global stage.    

PolyU Design alumni and graduates shine in the DFA awards 2024

We are delighted to announce the accomplishments of alumni and graduates from the PolyU School of Design at the DFA Awards. Organized by the prestigious Hong Kong Design Centre, the DFA Awards represent a standard of excellence in the design industry. This achievement highlights the exceptional talent nurtured by the PolyU School of Design and underscores its significant role in the design field.   Mr Tino Kwan Wing Kuen (Higher Diploma in Industrial Design, 1973), who is one of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni, received the DFA World's Outstanding Chinese Designer award for his outstanding contributions and his innovative work on iconic buildings and public spaces with a substantial experience for more than 40 years. Mr Tino Kwan’s was one of the ten distinguished alumni showcased in the 'One To Ten—PolyU Design Outstanding Alumni Exhibition’. In addition, six younger PolyU Design graduates were honoured with the DFA Hong Kong Young Design Talent Award. This accolade recognises the creativity and potential of young designers in Hong Kong, aged between 18 and 35, fostering connections and paving the way for a bright future in the global design arena. The DFA Hong Kong Young Design Talent Award awardees from PolyU Design include: Design Practitioners: Ho Ching Lam (BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communication), 2014) Lau Pui Kar (Higher Diploma in Multimedia Design & Technology, 2011) Liu Shing Kai (BA (Hons) in Product Design, 2022) Design Graduates: Chan Michael Kai Lok (BA (Hons) in Environment & Interior Design, 2024) Kwok Hoi Yan (BA (Hons) in Communication Design, 2024) Yip Chun Hin (BA (Hons) in Communication Design, 2024) Congratulations!