The judge:
Q&A with Mark Elmore, general manager of design at Fisher & Paykel
What do you look for in a design?
MARK ELMORE Simplicity, beauty, enduring quality and an element of delight in use.
Looking over the finalists in this year’s awards, what ties them together?
There’s an element of design that’s fit for purpose, but also engaging and interesting to live with. They are all really suited to the type of manufacturing we can successfully achieve in New Zealand.
Why did the ‘Newton’ win?
In a world full of technology and complexity with coffee makers, this is a purist design that’s stripped back to its functional elements. Everything that’s there is of a high quality and with beautiful details. It’s fun to look at and interact with.
What were your other favourites?
I like the ‘Circus’ light by Resident – it’s a great combination of clever technology and beautiful material. I also like the ‘Bloom’ pendant by Tim Rundle; a wonderful light effect with a very simple idea.
Why is it important to celebrate New Zealand design like this?
There’s a growing confidence in New Zealand design on the global stage – our design is highly awarded in other countries. It’s important to share and celebrate the great work that’s done all around us.