Salon de TE 2016: A Space Journey in Watch Exhibition

Hong Kong Trade Development Council's Innovative Approach to Watch Showcasing

The inspiration for the introductory passageway’s design came from the client’s requirement of evoking the visitors’ imagination with the feeling of new discoveries. The design team researched various situations of human exploration and chose space travel as the main theme, creating a physical experience based on the concept of a Space Journey.

The Salon de TE was the only hall open to the general public at the 2016 edition of the Hong Kong Watch and Clock fair. The fair organizer’s requested the design for this hall to be different, therefore an area of 6000sqm was provided to build a unique introductory passageway. This design included an entrance, passageway, and a stage for multi-purpose activities, playing on the theme of new discoveries.

The walls were made with lightweight reusable aluminium systems covered with stretched vinyl graphic prints to reduce onsite wastage. Biodegradable carpets were also applied for this area. The audio and video equipment such as the video panels and projectors screens were hired, along with furniture and props.

Inside the entrance, two 1.5 metres radius space rock-like rotundas with motion graphics innards were suspended on the ceiling. Inside the exhibition hall stood four 4.5m high arches with video panels that led past 3 windows with a diameter of 3m wide, introducing the different exhibitors’ zones. A stage platform at 40sqm with a video panel backdrop held various product parades, cocktail receptions, and forums.

The design team faced the challenge of converting the feeling of discovery from a physical space to provide a sense of awe to the general public while only having 3 days to set up onsite. After analysing many ideas on exploration, they decided on a thematic approach based on outer space travel, making Space Journey as a core concept.

The Salon de TE 2016 was awarded Silver in A' Event and Happening Design Award in 2018. This award is rewarded to top-of-the-line, creative, and professionally remarkable designs that illustrate outstanding expertise and innovation.