The front of the gift box is adorned with delicate cherry blossoms, carefully hand-drawn to perfection. These blossoms are accompanied by iconic landmarks of Wuhan, such as the Yellow Crane Tower and the Yangtze River Bridge, adding a touch of local charm. The inclusion of swallows carrying love letters and characters from the 1990s evokes a sense of nostalgia and romance, creating a truly unique aesthetic that combines the vibrancy of spring with a retro twist.
But the beauty of Ying Hua Qing Su doesn't stop at its exterior. The inner box is ingeniously designed to fold into the shape of a cherry blossom, mirroring the image of cherry blossoms gently falling on the lake. This clever folding technique not only adds to the visual appeal but also eliminates the need for glue and nails, making it an environmentally friendly and sustainable choice. Once the delicious flower cake wrapped in tin foil is savored, the inner box can be folded along the petals and used as a decorative piece, while the outer box can serve as a storage box.
Measuring 396mm x 336mm x 55mm, Ying Hua Qing Su is not just a gift box; it's a work of art that encapsulates the essence of Wuhan's cherry blossom season. Its unique design and eco-friendly construction make it a standout choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and sustainability. By integrating the beauty of cherry blossoms into the packaging design, Jin Zhang has created a lasting memory for customers, allowing them to cherish the moment forever.
The development of Ying Hua Qing Su began in February 2021, and it will be available in Wuhan, China, in late March. The designer, Jin Zhang, conducted extensive research by visiting various cherry blossom sites in Wuhan to understand the emotional connection people have with these delicate flowers. The design aims to capture the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms and preserve it in a tangible form, allowing people to relive the magic of the season.
The creation of Ying Hua Qing Su was not without its challenges. The most significant hurdle was perfecting the structure of the inner box, ensuring that it could be folded into a cherry blossom shape without the need for glue or nails. After numerous experiments and optimizations, the designer achieved the desired effect, resulting in a smooth folding mechanism that enhances production efficiency.
Ying Hua Qing Su has been recognized for its exceptional design and creativity, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Packaging Design category in 2022. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate ingenuity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life. By seamlessly blending art, science, design, and technology, Ying Hua Qing Su exemplifies the best practices in packaging design, making it a truly remarkable creation.
With Ying Hua Qing Su, Jin Zhang has not only crafted a beautiful gift box but also a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Wuhan. This romantic and nostalgic design captures the essence of cherry blossoms and the city's unique character, making it a perfect gift for anyone who appreciates art, design, and the beauty of nature.
Project Designers: Jin Zhang
Image Credits: Jin Zhang
Project Team Members: Designer:Jin Zhang
Illustrator:Ru Jun
Project Name: Ying Hua Qing Su
Project Client: Jin Zhang