Sheffield Hallam University opens major design exhibition in Hong Kong

11th November 2022

Sheffield Hallam University’s design-led research group Lab4Living is collaborating with the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI) to open a major exhibition exploring how design can imagine an equitable future and respond to evolving needs as populations age

Beyond 100: Transforming Design & Imagining Futures with Lab4Living is presented at the HKDI gallery and curated by Sheffield Hallam’s Dr Michael Tan. It is inspired by the challenges faced by designers as humans live longer around the world.  

Recognising the importance of people-centric design and the powerful implications of efficient and effective solutions, the exhibition looks at how design can respond to our changing demands and expectations in our homes and wider environment throughout the life course. It also invites visitors to consider civic responsibility as well as the inquisitive, provocative and technical qualities of design in response to society’s evolving circumstances and needs. 

Five key themes present the eclectic approaches, formats and directions undertaken by Lab4Living. The artefacts highlight the extraordinary potential of design and design research to put a different perspective on the world we live in, to transforming our way of life to foster positive and lasting change in the contexts of health and wellbeing, enabling life and supporting human flourishing. 

Dr Lay Lian Ong, Principal of HKDI and the Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, said: “It is our great honour to collaborate with Lab4Living and present this exhibition. The design research approach of Lab4Living demonstrates that design can consider and create safe passages for all on life’s journey. The exhibition is sure to stimulate creative thoughts and encourage our students to further develop the role of design in improving human health and wellbeing.” 

Professor Paul Chamberlain, Director of Lab4Living at Sheffield Hallam University, said: “The exhibition shows how Lab4Living has utilised design to enhance quality of life in an increasingly extended life. It showcases a diversity of design approaches that highlight the importance of defining questions not just answers; the value of participatory and global collaborative approaches; the need for inclusive and sustainable approaches; and solutions that are culturally and environmentally appropriate.” 

Beyond 100: Transforming Design & Imagining Futures is Lab4Living’s first exhibition in Hong Kong and has been made possible through Research England’s E3 funding programme.