We are incredibly proud to announce that students from the School of the Arts (SOTA), USM, dominated the Furniture Design Competition held during the Wood Technology Festival 2026. Hosted at Rafflesia Hall PKK on 8 April 2026, the festival operated under the inspiring theme "Sustaining Timber, Shaping the Future". Our Product Design students showcased their ability to merge traditional craftsmanship with modern needs, taking home top honors against stiff competitionย
In the 1st Place position is the MODUBRICK Occasional Table designed by Year 3 students Leow Xue Qing and Chew Chuan Xiang. Addressing the needs of Generation Alpha, this modular table is a solution for modern homes with limited space. The design is guided by the mantra "Craft. Care. Create." to promote independence and an early appreciation for sustainability. It utilizes soft pastel tones and natural wood to create a calm environment for reading, drawing, and crafting. This compact, multifunctional design was inspired by modularity to encourage flexibility and playful interaction.
The 2nd Place award was presented to Year 4 student Tang Xin Yi for her project titled STACKO. This design embraces the micro-living discipline where less is not lack, but intention. STACKO is a humble yet thoughtful form that shifts effortlessly between a stool, table, and storage unit. It was specifically designed to stack and disappear when not in use, ensuring it opens up space rather than occupying it within small living environments
Additionally, Year 4 student Teo Jo Ann was recognized as a Top 10 Finalist for her Floor Lounge Chair named EcoVine. EcoVine is a sustainable gesture that transforms small environments into spaces of comfort and quiet belonging. Its form borrows from the spiral of a snail shell and the contours of rolling hills to invite the mind into stillness. Through the union of traditional weaving craftsmanship and contemporary design language, it offers privacy and a sense of retreat rooted in Asian floor-seating traditions.
This remarkable achievement highlights SOTA USMโs commitment to fostering designers who do not just create furniture, but shape the future of sustainable living. Congratulations to our talented winners for making the USM community incredibly proud! โค๏ธ๐
