Haier spotlights forward-thinking design concepts at iF Design Student Award
For years, the Haier Design Team has championed the next generation of designers – including as a long-standing sponsor of the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD. This year, we introduced our own special prize within the award: the Haier Design Prize 2026 by iF, created to shine an even brighter spotlight on emerging talent and the energy and optimism they bring to our industry.
Four outstanding student concepts – from Germany, Japan, the USA and the Republic of Korea – were honored at the award ceremony in Frankfurt.
Presented on the main stage at Westhafen Pier 1, the award highlights forward-thinking ideas addressing global challenges—from climate and health to social participation—while celebrating the passion and creativity of the next generation of designers.
Lara Yasmin Haaken – Larum / Cutlery for mindful eating in a fast-paced world
Minoo Marasi – Schwa / Portable healthcare device for easing anxiety
Weijen Chen – Cymatcis Cup / Using low-frequency vibrations to alter taste perception
Jiwon Park – Thingo / NTH platform to extend the lifespan of electronic devices through reuse
The Haier Design Team has been passionately committed to supporting young design talent for many years – as sponsor of the iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD.
Federico Ferretti, Head of the Haier Experience Design Center in Milan, explains: “We are proud to introduce our own special award to shine an even brighter spotlight on the next generation of designers. When we look at younger designers, we believe that passion – the driving force behind talent – is the most important quality the design world needs. We invest in passion and thus foster the energy and optimism that are essential for a better future. The concepts we have selected together with iF Design show how boldly and responsibly the next generation is responding to issues such as climate, health and social participation.”
The iF DESIGN STUDENT AWARD is one of the world’s most important and significant competitions for young designers. It honors concepts by students and graduates in the field of design and architecture that deal with achieving the SDGs. iF Design offers the award winners an international stage and a springboard for a successful career start.
To discover more about the award and winning projects, please consult the page here.
