Garuda: A Fusion of Myth and Modernity

ShuHeng Huang's Award-Winning Conference Table Inspired by Chinese Mythology

Garuda, a conference table designed by ShuHeng Huang, marries ancient Chinese mythology with modern technology, creating a piece that is as much a work of art as it is a functional piece of furniture. The design, inspired by the mythological bird Garuda, symbolizes high virtue and grace, and serves as a powerful emblem for any enterprise.

Garuda's unique form draws from the Chinese traditional paper craft, Origami, embodying both softness and hardness. This combination of Western technology and Eastern culture is evident in the table's intricate details. Tiny, taut holes on the surface mimic the vividness and flight speed of the bird, while the dual color scheme represents the bird's character: white for its haughty and standoffish exterior, and red for its passionate interior.

The table is constructed from iron, stainless steel coating, titanium coated stainless steel, and clear glass. Its dimensions are L348cm x W91cm x H75cm. The design process, which took place in Taiwan and concluded in 2014, involved a deep dive into Chinese mythology to capture the soul and shape of the auspicious creature, Garuda.

Garuda is more than just a conference table. Its unique shape and craftsmanship are designed to surprise guests and offer an unforgettable experience. It also serves as a potent symbol of the company it represents. The main body of the table can be separated into two parts: the structure, which imitates the skeleton of birds, and the feather, which combines the traditional craft of Origami with the application of laser cutting.

ShuHeng Huang's design has been recognized for its creativity and innovation. In 2017, Garuda was awarded Silver in the A' Furniture Design Award, a prestigious accolade given to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation. These designs, admired for their strong technical characteristics and splendid artistic skill, showcase a remarkable level of excellence and introduce positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.

Garuda is a testament to the power of design to tell stories and evoke emotions. It is a symbol of fortune, a spiritual and soulful energy spread through a piece of furniture. It is a testament to the designer's ability to blend ancient culture with modern technology, creating a piece that is both functional and meaningful. It is, in essence, a celebration of the beauty of design and the power of storytelling.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: ShuHeng Huang
Image Credits: Jerry Chao
Project Team Members: ShuHeng Huang
Project Name: Garuda
Project Client: ShuHeng Huang


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