Product Of The Year Awards 2008
And the winner is... 
The search for cutting-edge design is at the forefront of Home Beautiful's annual Product of the Year Awards, which celebrate innovative design in all its forms. Emerging and established individual designers were up against global brands in the search for the best products released in Australia over the past 12 months, with the judges unanimous in their decision to award 2008 s top award to Ikea's Ånge chair. Priced at just $179, it epitomises the ethos of the competition – good design that was practical, innovative and great value for money.
SEE THE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNERS EXHIBITION AT WESTFIELD BONDI JUNCTION UNTIL OCTOBER 26.
Jump to an award category to see the winners and finalists:
Home Appliances | Bathroom | Home Accessories | Seating | Tabletop | Lighting | Outdoor Living | Walls & Floors | Furniture | Textiles
Home Appliances
Fisher & Paykel Izona CoolDrawer
Introducing the CoolDrawer, an innovative refrigeration system that's bound to be a talking point. The easy-to-use drawer means no more rifling around in the back of the cupboard or fridge for that elusive ingredient, and the touch of a button switches it from fridge to freezer or vice versa. The multitemperature drawer has a five-star energy rating and is available with a stainless-steel front, or it can be fully integrated into your cabinetry.
Price: $3499.
Contact: Fisher & Paykel; 1300 650 590, www.fisherpaykel.com.au.
FINALISTS
Asko Hidden Helpers These space-saving systems fit under or between Asko washers and dryers to keep your laundry needs in one area and are virtually invisible – just try to spot them!
Price: Ironing Board, $649; double pull-out shelf, $649.
Contact: Asko; 1300 002 756, www.asko.com.au.
Breville Professional 800 Collection Four-slice toaster This sleek toaster is feature packed, including a 'Lift & Look' button that allows you to view your toast while it cooks.
Price: $194.95.
Contact: Breville; 1300 139 798, www.breville.com.au.
Electrolux 'Aurora' Illuminated cooktop This fresh take on induction utilises white Corian and ceramic glass to create an elegant cooktop with touch controls and a light that highlights its perimeter.
Price: $9999.
Contact: Electrolux; 1300 363 640.
Bathroom
Porcelanosa Ceramic Parquet
The glamour of wooden floorboards was the inspiration for these elegant porcelain tiles, which mimic the look of real wood. Available in a staggering 45 colours with the most realistic wood grain our judges have seen, these clever tiles are also non-slip, easy to clean and can withstand humidity. The best part? They remove the age-old maintenance problems associated with real timber, with no extra sealing required.
Price: from $100/sqm.
Contact: Earp Bros; (02) 4925 4555, (03) 9328 8598, www.earp.com.au.
FINALISTS
Minosa 'Scoop' ED washbasin Form meets function in this streamlined washbasin, which combines a Corian sink and bench in one flowing movement. The shallow basin holds just 1.4 litres of water, promoting water-saving efficiency.
Price: $2309.
Contact: Minosa; (02) 9550 0234, www.minosa.com.au.
Lanark 'Fusion' rectangular freestanding bath The seamless look of this slick freestanding acrylic bath is outdone only by its price – it epitomises luxe for less.
Price: $2046.
Contact: Reece; 1800 032 566, www.reece.com.au.
Teknobili Cubeplus wall basin mixer The chunky but curvaceous good looks of this tap caught our attention, but its 4-star water rating (it uses just 7.5 litres of water per minute) guaranteed it a place as a finalist.
Price: $575.30.
Contact: Reece; 1800 032 566, www.reece.com.au.
Home Accessories
Cocoon Couture Enchanted Tree
The beautiful decorative Enchanted Tree is all the more refreshing for its unique design. Made from renewable plantation timber using non-toxic inks, the plywood tree has silk-screen printed leaves with patterns inspired by vintage wallpaper. Pegs shaped like acorns are at an ideal height for little hands to hang special treasures, and the tree won't topple under their weight (we know – we tested it!). Sleepy Owl and Early Bird add a delightful element of nature.
Price: $490.
Contact: Cocoon Couture; (03) 9530 5199, www.cocooncouture.com.
FINALISTS
Animal Index Books and CDs are brought to life with these felt pig, reindeer or giraffe decorations.
Price: $30 each.
Contact: Living and Dining; (03) 9810 4565, www.livinganddining.com.au.
Grid clock The profile of this lightweight PVC clock engages in shadowplay, changing appearance throughout the day.
Price: $60.
Contact: Living and Dining.
Trappestigen stepladder This chic stepladder features a solid lacquered birchwood design, an ergonomic extended handrail and a wall mount for storage.
Price: $695.
Contact: Great Dane Furniture; (03) 9510 6111.
Seating
Ikea Ånge Chair
A clear winner, the judges were unanimous in their admiration of the Ånge chair. Whether you're relaxing with a glass of wine in hand or reading your child a bedtime story, this lightweight chair is comfortable, affordable and easy to clean – just a quick wipe with a damp cloth will do the job – while its lacquer coating ensures it will withstand hard knocks. Made from innovative hand-woven twisted paper on a steel frame, it only comes in black, but we can't wait to see if other colours will be released.
Price: $179.
Contact: Ikea; (02) 8002 0400, (03) 8416 5000, (07) 3380 6800, www.ikea.com.au.
FINALISTS
Poise chair Evoking an old-school wooden tennis racquet, Poise combines fragility and strength in the form of hand-shaped laminated wood and nylon.
Price: $3500.
Contact: Matthew Harding, 0412 045 203.
King Furniture 'Kato' modular system The height, arms, backs and tables of this leather modular system can be adjusted to suit your home and lifestyle.
Price: $6990.
Contact: King Furniture; (02) 9516 5466, www.kingfurniture.com.au.
Tabletop
Royal Doulton Terence Conran White 'Bird' sauce jug
Two names synonymous with quality, Royal Doulton and Terence Conran, have collaborated to reinvent the sauce jug. The bird-shaped sauce jug is both simple and practical, and pours with ease. Made from stoneware, chosen for its durability and ability to retain heat, the sauce jug doubles as decoration when not in use, making for an elegant and artful display. For such a timeless design, it's also incredible value for money.
Price: $19.95/small, $39.95/large.
Contact: Royal Doulton; 1800 252 034, www.royaldoulton.com.au.
FINALISTS
Dandi Bamboo range Eco-friendly bamboo has been used to create this durable kitchenware, decorated with a laser-etched pattern of Australian flora and fauna.
Price: Cheese board, $79.95.
Contact: Dandi; (02) 9555 1166, www.dandi.com.au.
Shannon Garson Magnolia bowls Sepia drawings of magnolia blossoms adorn handthrown porcelain bowls.
Price: $1200/four pieces.
Contact: Shannon Garson; www.shannongarson.com.
Villeroy & Boch Urban Nature range Country and modern influences are evident in the design of this elegant fine china.
Price: from $12.95 for a dip bowl.
Contact: Villeroy & Boch; 1800 252 770.
Lighting
Catellani & Smith 'Post Krisi' lamp collection
Made entirely of glass – right down to its fringed edging – lighting meets artistic sculpture in this range of fibreglass lamps. Light and shadow interact with a delicately balanced luminous glow that sways with the faintest of movements, varying the shadow cast on the wall behind. Handcrafted and handpainted in a range of colours, this impressive form radiates as a veritable art piece.
Price: Catellani & Smith Post Kris standing lamp, $1690.
Contact: Hub Furniture Lighting Living; (02) 9217 0700, (03) 9652 1222, www.hubfurniture.com.au.
FINALISTS
Fanaway Evo1 Prevail ceiling fan A world first! The clear acrylic blades of this ceiling fan are concealed above the pendant light until the fan is switched on.
Price: from $369.
Contact: Beacon Lighting; 131 595, www.beaconlighting.com.au.
Touching Space Hanging Pod Designed by Stuart Williams, the nature-inspired form of this pendant light is based on a seed pod. Handpainted silhouettes of native flora continue the botanical theme.
Price: $850.
Contact: ECC Lighting + Living; (02) 9380 7922, (07) 3100 8842, (03) 9821 5300, www.ecc.com.au.
Outdoor Living
Vogue Vinyl Shutters
Practicality is at the design forefront of these shutters, which can be used inside or outside the home. The savvy shutters have a high level of UV stabilisation, making them ideal for our climate. They won't crack, warp or discolour and come backed with a 20-year warranty. Another bonus – they reduce the amount of heat let into a room by 20 per cent.
Price: fixed/hinged, from $520/sqm; sliding/folding blinds, from $650.
Contact: Vogue Vinyl Shutters; 1300 361 433, www.vogueshutters.com.
FINALISTS
Electrolux Integrated Barbecue This sleek stainless-steel barbecue brings indoor aesthetics to outdoor cooking.
Price: $2464/190cm x 68cm x 24cm.
Contact: Lump Sculpture Studio; (03) 9429 7829, www.lump.tps1.com.au.
Lump Sculpture Studio 'Waratah' light feature At home on a balcony or a sprawling garden, the rusted finish of this light feature adds a glamorous touch.
Price: $1200/four pieces.
Contact: Shannon Garson; www.shannongarson.com.
BBQnique Dad's domain is redefined by this granite table meets stainless-steel barbecue, the brainchild of opal miner Steve Zagar.
Price: from $4900.
Contact: Zagreb Investments, (08) 8389 9128.
Walls & Floors
Porter's Paints 'Dragonfly' wallpaper
2008 has seen the return of design to our walls, but Porter's Paints 'Dragonfly' print offers a fresh new take on traditional wallpaper. The striking design comes in four colourways, including dramatic Midnight Blue (pictured), but the real point of interest is the optional pearlescent butterfly wings, creating a three-dimensional effect and redefining the 'feature wall'.
Price: $130/10m roll; wings, $20/A3 sheet.
Contact: Porter's Paints; 1800 656 664, www.porterspaints.com.au.
FINALISTS
Harlequin wallpaper Damask has been given a contemporary update with this metallic and matt wallpaper.
Price: $100/roll.
Contact: Domestic Textiles; (02) 9380 4607, (03) 9387 3322.
Bholu Rug Bholu's signature motif, inspired by children's drawings, now features on handmade felted wool rugs.
Price: from $1850.
Contact: Bholu; (02) 9698 0153, www.bholu.com.
Pappelina 'Alve' rug This versatile plastic rug can be used indoors or out and is machine washable.
Price: $152/70cm x 100cm.
Contact: Nordic Fusion; (02) 9976 6033, www.nordicfusion.com.au
Furniture
Jardan 'Clementine' credenza
With a design and craftmanship that pays homage to both Japanese and Scandinavian furniture, this elegant sideboard is proudly Australian-designed and made. The simple shape is minimal without being austere, and functional with ample storage but not at the expense of beauty. The slimline legs offer a spatial contrast to the eco plywood structure, making the credenza appear to float.
Price: $6500.
Contact: Jardan; (02) 9663 4500, (03) 9548 8866, (07) 3257 0098, www.jardan.com.au.
FINALISTS
In Your Room 'Y-Front' side table This versatile moulded plywood table has a unique organic shape.
Price: $495.
Contact: In Your Room; (02) 9386 9513, www.inyourroom.com.au.
Ikea Odda chair This oversized chair has storage underneath and folds out into a single bed.
Price: $399.
Contact: Ikea; www.ikea.com.au..
Woodmark 'Flosion' seat/table Australian-designed and made, the flowing design of Flosion adds movement to a scheme.
Price: From $700 each.
Contact: Woodmark; (02) 9756 3066, www.woodmark.com.au.
Textiles
Cloth Bespoke Burlap
In an era where 'reduce, reuse, recycle' is the antidote to a throwaway society, designer Julie Paterson has taken this to heart by transforming jute coffee sacks into desirable home furnishings. After discussing the parallels of good coffee and good design with a barista friend, Julie was inspired to begin handprinting relevant words and phrases on to the fair trade burlap material. It's a return to tested craft methods and a made-to-order process where nothing is wasted. The tactile quality and subtle colour of the fabric showcases the beauty of reuse.
Price: Curtain, $900/1.5m x 2.5m; chair from $980.
Contact: Cloth; (02) 9699 2266.
FINALISTS
Luxaflex Duette Architella shades Honeycomb-like air pockets insulate against cold and shade against heat.
Price: from $800.
Contact: Luxaflex; 135 892, www.luxaflex.com.au.
Ella and Sofia 'Narnie' woven fabric A striking design showcases timeless style.
Price: $130/metre.
Contact: Ella and Sofia; (02) 8004 1604.
Patricia fabric Affordable, bold designs in sophisticated colours wowed the judges.
Price: $12/metre.
Contact: Ikea; www.ikea.com.au..
SEE THE PRODUCT OF THE YEAR WINNERS EXHIBITION AT WESTFIELD BONDI JUNCTION UNTIL OCTOBER 26.
Jump to an award category to see the winners and finalists:
Home Appliances | Bathroom | Home Accessories | Seating | Tabletop | Lighting | Outdoor Living | Walls & Floors | Furniture | Textiles
Home Appliances
Fisher & Paykel Izona CoolDrawer
Introducing the CoolDrawer, an innovative refrigeration system that's bound to be a talking point. The easy-to-use drawer means no more rifling around in the back of the cupboard or fridge for that elusive ingredient, and the touch of a button switches it from fridge to freezer or vice versa. The multitemperature drawer has a five-star energy rating and is available with a stainless-steel front, or it can be fully integrated into your cabinetry.
Price: $3499.
Contact: Fisher & Paykel; 1300 650 590, www.fisherpaykel.com.au.
FINALISTS
Asko Hidden Helpers These space-saving systems fit under or between Asko washers and dryers to keep your laundry needs in one area and are virtually invisible – just try to spot them!
Price: Ironing Board, $649; double pull-out shelf, $649.
Contact: Asko; 1300 002 756, www.asko.com.au.
Breville Professional 800 Collection Four-slice toaster This sleek toaster is feature packed, including a 'Lift & Look' button that allows you to view your toast while it cooks.
Price: $194.95.
Contact: Breville; 1300 139 798, www.breville.com.au.
Electrolux 'Aurora' Illuminated cooktop This fresh take on induction utilises white Corian and ceramic glass to create an elegant cooktop with touch controls and a light that highlights its perimeter.
Price: $9999.
Contact: Electrolux; 1300 363 640.
Bathroom
Porcelanosa Ceramic Parquet
The glamour of wooden floorboards was the inspiration for these elegant porcelain tiles, which mimic the look of real wood. Available in a staggering 45 colours with the most realistic wood grain our judges have seen, these clever tiles are also non-slip, easy to clean and can withstand humidity. The best part? They remove the age-old maintenance problems associated with real timber, with no extra sealing required.
Price: from $100/sqm.
Contact: Earp Bros; (02) 4925 4555, (03) 9328 8598, www.earp.com.au.
FINALISTS
Minosa 'Scoop' ED washbasin Form meets function in this streamlined washbasin, which combines a Corian sink and bench in one flowing movement. The shallow basin holds just 1.4 litres of water, promoting water-saving efficiency.
Price: $2309.
Contact: Minosa; (02) 9550 0234, www.minosa.com.au.
Lanark 'Fusion' rectangular freestanding bath The seamless look of this slick freestanding acrylic bath is outdone only by its price – it epitomises luxe for less.
Price: $2046.
Contact: Reece; 1800 032 566, www.reece.com.au.
Teknobili Cubeplus wall basin mixer The chunky but curvaceous good looks of this tap caught our attention, but its 4-star water rating (it uses just 7.5 litres of water per minute) guaranteed it a place as a finalist.
Price: $575.30.
Contact: Reece; 1800 032 566, www.reece.com.au.
Home Accessories
Cocoon Couture Enchanted Tree
The beautiful decorative Enchanted Tree is all the more refreshing for its unique design. Made from renewable plantation timber using non-toxic inks, the plywood tree has silk-screen printed leaves with patterns inspired by vintage wallpaper. Pegs shaped like acorns are at an ideal height for little hands to hang special treasures, and the tree won't topple under their weight (we know – we tested it!). Sleepy Owl and Early Bird add a delightful element of nature.
Price: $490.
Contact: Cocoon Couture; (03) 9530 5199, www.cocooncouture.com.
FINALISTS
Animal Index Books and CDs are brought to life with these felt pig, reindeer or giraffe decorations.
Price: $30 each.
Contact: Living and Dining; (03) 9810 4565, www.livinganddining.com.au.
Grid clock The profile of this lightweight PVC clock engages in shadowplay, changing appearance throughout the day.
Price: $60.
Contact: Living and Dining.
Trappestigen stepladder This chic stepladder features a solid lacquered birchwood design, an ergonomic extended handrail and a wall mount for storage.
Price: $695.
Contact: Great Dane Furniture; (03) 9510 6111.
Seating
Ikea Ånge Chair
A clear winner, the judges were unanimous in their admiration of the Ånge chair. Whether you're relaxing with a glass of wine in hand or reading your child a bedtime story, this lightweight chair is comfortable, affordable and easy to clean – just a quick wipe with a damp cloth will do the job – while its lacquer coating ensures it will withstand hard knocks. Made from innovative hand-woven twisted paper on a steel frame, it only comes in black, but we can't wait to see if other colours will be released.
Price: $179.
Contact: Ikea; (02) 8002 0400, (03) 8416 5000, (07) 3380 6800, www.ikea.com.au.
FINALISTS
Poise chair Evoking an old-school wooden tennis racquet, Poise combines fragility and strength in the form of hand-shaped laminated wood and nylon.
Price: $3500.
Contact: Matthew Harding, 0412 045 203.
King Furniture 'Kato' modular system The height, arms, backs and tables of this leather modular system can be adjusted to suit your home and lifestyle.
Price: $6990.
Contact: King Furniture; (02) 9516 5466, www.kingfurniture.com.au.
Tabletop
Royal Doulton Terence Conran White 'Bird' sauce jug
Two names synonymous with quality, Royal Doulton and Terence Conran, have collaborated to reinvent the sauce jug. The bird-shaped sauce jug is both simple and practical, and pours with ease. Made from stoneware, chosen for its durability and ability to retain heat, the sauce jug doubles as decoration when not in use, making for an elegant and artful display. For such a timeless design, it's also incredible value for money.
Price: $19.95/small, $39.95/large.
Contact: Royal Doulton; 1800 252 034, www.royaldoulton.com.au.
FINALISTS
Dandi Bamboo range Eco-friendly bamboo has been used to create this durable kitchenware, decorated with a laser-etched pattern of Australian flora and fauna.
Price: Cheese board, $79.95.
Contact: Dandi; (02) 9555 1166, www.dandi.com.au.
Shannon Garson Magnolia bowls Sepia drawings of magnolia blossoms adorn handthrown porcelain bowls.
Price: $1200/four pieces.
Contact: Shannon Garson; www.shannongarson.com.
Villeroy & Boch Urban Nature range Country and modern influences are evident in the design of this elegant fine china.
Price: from $12.95 for a dip bowl.
Contact: Villeroy & Boch; 1800 252 770.
Lighting
Catellani & Smith 'Post Krisi' lamp collection
Made entirely of glass – right down to its fringed edging – lighting meets artistic sculpture in this range of fibreglass lamps. Light and shadow interact with a delicately balanced luminous glow that sways with the faintest of movements, varying the shadow cast on the wall behind. Handcrafted and handpainted in a range of colours, this impressive form radiates as a veritable art piece.
Price: Catellani & Smith Post Kris standing lamp, $1690.
Contact: Hub Furniture Lighting Living; (02) 9217 0700, (03) 9652 1222, www.hubfurniture.com.au.
FINALISTS
Fanaway Evo1 Prevail ceiling fan A world first! The clear acrylic blades of this ceiling fan are concealed above the pendant light until the fan is switched on.
Price: from $369.
Contact: Beacon Lighting; 131 595, www.beaconlighting.com.au.
Touching Space Hanging Pod Designed by Stuart Williams, the nature-inspired form of this pendant light is based on a seed pod. Handpainted silhouettes of native flora continue the botanical theme.
Price: $850.
Contact: ECC Lighting + Living; (02) 9380 7922, (07) 3100 8842, (03) 9821 5300, www.ecc.com.au.
Outdoor Living
Vogue Vinyl Shutters
Practicality is at the design forefront of these shutters, which can be used inside or outside the home. The savvy shutters have a high level of UV stabilisation, making them ideal for our climate. They won't crack, warp or discolour and come backed with a 20-year warranty. Another bonus – they reduce the amount of heat let into a room by 20 per cent.
Price: fixed/hinged, from $520/sqm; sliding/folding blinds, from $650.
Contact: Vogue Vinyl Shutters; 1300 361 433, www.vogueshutters.com.
FINALISTS
Electrolux Integrated Barbecue This sleek stainless-steel barbecue brings indoor aesthetics to outdoor cooking.
Price: $2464/190cm x 68cm x 24cm.
Contact: Lump Sculpture Studio; (03) 9429 7829, www.lump.tps1.com.au.
Lump Sculpture Studio 'Waratah' light feature At home on a balcony or a sprawling garden, the rusted finish of this light feature adds a glamorous touch.
Price: $1200/four pieces.
Contact: Shannon Garson; www.shannongarson.com.
BBQnique Dad's domain is redefined by this granite table meets stainless-steel barbecue, the brainchild of opal miner Steve Zagar.
Price: from $4900.
Contact: Zagreb Investments, (08) 8389 9128.
Walls & Floors
Porter's Paints 'Dragonfly' wallpaper
2008 has seen the return of design to our walls, but Porter's Paints 'Dragonfly' print offers a fresh new take on traditional wallpaper. The striking design comes in four colourways, including dramatic Midnight Blue (pictured), but the real point of interest is the optional pearlescent butterfly wings, creating a three-dimensional effect and redefining the 'feature wall'.
Price: $130/10m roll; wings, $20/A3 sheet.
Contact: Porter's Paints; 1800 656 664, www.porterspaints.com.au.
FINALISTS
Harlequin wallpaper Damask has been given a contemporary update with this metallic and matt wallpaper.
Price: $100/roll.
Contact: Domestic Textiles; (02) 9380 4607, (03) 9387 3322.
Bholu Rug Bholu's signature motif, inspired by children's drawings, now features on handmade felted wool rugs.
Price: from $1850.
Contact: Bholu; (02) 9698 0153, www.bholu.com.
Pappelina 'Alve' rug This versatile plastic rug can be used indoors or out and is machine washable.
Price: $152/70cm x 100cm.
Contact: Nordic Fusion; (02) 9976 6033, www.nordicfusion.com.au
Furniture
Jardan 'Clementine' credenza
With a design and craftmanship that pays homage to both Japanese and Scandinavian furniture, this elegant sideboard is proudly Australian-designed and made. The simple shape is minimal without being austere, and functional with ample storage but not at the expense of beauty. The slimline legs offer a spatial contrast to the eco plywood structure, making the credenza appear to float.
Price: $6500.
Contact: Jardan; (02) 9663 4500, (03) 9548 8866, (07) 3257 0098, www.jardan.com.au.
FINALISTS
In Your Room 'Y-Front' side table This versatile moulded plywood table has a unique organic shape.
Price: $495.
Contact: In Your Room; (02) 9386 9513, www.inyourroom.com.au.
Ikea Odda chair This oversized chair has storage underneath and folds out into a single bed.
Price: $399.
Contact: Ikea; www.ikea.com.au..
Woodmark 'Flosion' seat/table Australian-designed and made, the flowing design of Flosion adds movement to a scheme.
Price: From $700 each.
Contact: Woodmark; (02) 9756 3066, www.woodmark.com.au.
Textiles
Cloth Bespoke Burlap
In an era where 'reduce, reuse, recycle' is the antidote to a throwaway society, designer Julie Paterson has taken this to heart by transforming jute coffee sacks into desirable home furnishings. After discussing the parallels of good coffee and good design with a barista friend, Julie was inspired to begin handprinting relevant words and phrases on to the fair trade burlap material. It's a return to tested craft methods and a made-to-order process where nothing is wasted. The tactile quality and subtle colour of the fabric showcases the beauty of reuse.
Price: Curtain, $900/1.5m x 2.5m; chair from $980.
Contact: Cloth; (02) 9699 2266.
FINALISTS
Luxaflex Duette Architella shades Honeycomb-like air pockets insulate against cold and shade against heat.
Price: from $800.
Contact: Luxaflex; 135 892, www.luxaflex.com.au.
Ella and Sofia 'Narnie' woven fabric A striking design showcases timeless style.
Price: $130/metre.
Contact: Ella and Sofia; (02) 8004 1604.
Patricia fabric Affordable, bold designs in sophisticated colours wowed the judges.
Price: $12/metre.
Contact: Ikea; www.ikea.com.au..
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if i had the cash, i think i can produce something better- seriously.
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