Living in Fun: A Kinetic Installation Space

Transforming Houseware Objects into an Engaging Exhibition

Designed by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, "Living in Fun" is an innovative installation space that breathes life into houseware objects, creating a dynamic and engaging exhibition. This award-winning design was inspired by the concept of a kinetic setting, akin to the famous board game Mouse Trap, and was showcased at the HK Houseware Fair.

The uniqueness of "Living in Fun" lies in its ability to transform mundane objects into an interactive, kinetic installation. The design was spread across three areas inside the HK Convention and Exhibition Centre, including a welcome signage at the entrance foyer, the main entry point of the exhibition hall, and a central display area inside the hall. The design team also converted four future trend forecast reports into actual physical spaces, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for visitors.

The design was realized using a variety of materials and technologies. The 30m2 x 5m high welcome signage featured two LED monoliths as a backdrop, with a kinetic setting created using an automated seesaw, a curved ramp, and turntables with oversized household objects made of wood. The same material and finishes were applied inside the 16m2 entry point space of the hall and the 150m2 central display inside the hall. Black metal framing, reusable aluminum system, foamboard, digital print, vinyl graphics, and biodegradable carpet were also applied.

The design team faced several challenges during the realization of "Living in Fun". One of the main challenges was creating visual continuity throughout the exhibition, as the areas were sporadically spread out. To overcome this, the team created a visually strong welcome signage installation to heighten the visitors' first impression. This theme was echoed at the main entry of the hall and inside the central display of the hall, tying the entire exhibition together.

"Living in Fun" was not only a design project but also a research endeavor. The design team began by analyzing trend forecasts predictions, refining them to create more relevance to the houseware industry. The result was a series of fun, holistic expressions of kinetic movements that elevated the overall experience for the visitors.

The project was completed in three months, from initial briefing to onsite completion, and was located at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, Hong Kong. The event ran for three days, from the 20th to the 23rd of April 2018. The design was awarded Silver in A' Event and Happening Design Award in 2019, a testament to its outstanding expertise and innovation.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Hong Kong Trade Development Council
Image Credits: Hong Kong Trade Development Council
Project Team Members: Jason Cheung Dury Chin Eddie Chak KK Cheung Sheena Fung Abby Chan Mo Hung Cecilia Ip Amies Sit
Project Name: Living in Fun
Project Client: Hong Kong Trade Development Council


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