Eco-Chic Aromatherapy: Meditation of the Lotus Unveiled

Traditional Chinese Elegance Meets Sustainable Design

In a harmonious blend of cultural reverence and environmental consciousness, designers Xiong Zhang and Xiaoxiao Li introduce "Meditation of the Lotus," an innovative rock oil diffuser that infuses traditional Chinese aesthetics with eco-friendly materials.

At the intersection of art and sustainability, "Meditation of the Lotus" stands out as a testament to the designers' commitment to preserving cultural heritage while promoting eco-conscious living. The diffuser's design is deeply rooted in Chinese culture, with the packaging featuring traditional calligraphy patterns and a color palette that exudes simplicity and elegance. This product not only serves as a functional aromatherapy device but also as a symbolic representation of the modern Chinese aesthetic, resonating with consumers who value both tradition and sustainability.

The unique properties of "Meditation of the Lotus" lie in its innovative use of unglazed porcelain and Jialing River pebbles, which act as a natural fragrance carrier. The porcelain mimics the texture of soft Xuan paper, a nod to ancient Chinese artistry, while the pebbles ensure the scent is dispersed in a more natural and enduring manner. The packaging is a marvel of eco-design, utilizing recycled Xuan paper and a debossing technique free of oil-based inks, all housed within a 100% recyclable corrugated paper tray.

Realization of this design was no small feat, with the team employing advanced pearlized electrochemical aluminum technology for embossing, striking a balance between natural fibers and metallic elements. The result is a packaging that not only protects the porcelain containers but also serves as a visual and tactile delight. The dimensions of the diffuser—170mm in width, 165mm in depth, and 205mm in height—ensure it is a statement piece for any interior.

The interaction with "Meditation of the Lotus" is as intuitive as it is innovative. The use of Jialing River pebbles is a global first in fragrance delivery, offering a more eco-friendly and efficient alternative to traditional methods. This design choice reflects the growing consumer demand for products that are not only effective but also aligned with environmental protection and low-carbon lifestyles.

The design journey began in April 2023 in Chongqing, China, culminating in a showcase in November of the same year. The extensive research behind the project aimed to merge traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern environmental conservation, a goal achieved through market surveys, focus group discussions, and the application of environmental technologies. The collaboration between designers, environmental experts, consumers, and cultural scholars was instrumental in overcoming the challenges of material selection, technical production, and market acceptance.

"Meditation of the Lotus" has been recognized with the prestigious Iron A' Packaging Design Award in 2024, a testament to its well-designed, practical, and innovative nature. This accolade underscores the product's ability to meet professional and industrial standards while providing a sense of fulfillment and contributing to a better world. The creators, Xiong Zhang and Xiaoxiao Li, along with their team, have crafted not just a product but a cultural statement that stands at the forefront of eco-friendly design.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Xiong Zhang
Image Credits: IP: Creator Xiong zhang and Xiaoxiao Li, Strated the project Meditation of the Lotus, 2023. Image #No1: Designer Zhichao Zhao, Full product view, 2023. Image #No2: Designer Xuefei Yi, Packageing close view, 2023. Image #No3: Designer Xuefei Yi, Packaging holder close view, 2023. Image #No4: Designer Xiaoxiao Li, Close up demonstration, 2023. Image #No5: Designer Zhichao Zhao, Wintersweet flower essentail oil sample and packaging view, 2023. Video credits: Creator Xiong zhang and Xiaoxiao Li, Editor: Zhichao Zhao, Translator Yishan Yuan, 2023.
Project Team Members: Designers: Xiong Zhang, Xiaoxiao Li, Zhichao zhao, Xuefei Yi, Yishan Yuan
Project Name: Meditation of the Lotus
Project Client: Chongqing Pupu Sent of China


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