PolyU Design Show 2026: Empowering design with AI and emerging technologies, showcasing students’ innovative solutions to diverse social challenges

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design (PolyU Design) is hosting the “PolyU Design Show 2026” from 5 June to 7 August, presenting design works by nearly 400 students from its Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes. Exploring diverse perspectives—from personal concerns and commercial realities to community needs—the exhibits spotlight social issues such as underprivileged communities and the development of local cultural industries. Through the integration of research, craftsmanship, and artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, students have designed innovative solutions with both forward-looking vision and social care. An opening ceremony was held last Friday (5 June) and attended by government and corporate representatives, industry partners, alumni, academics and innovators. Under the theme “Forged Apart, Coloured Together,” this year’s Show brings together each student’s individual creative journeys to form a connected, vibrant whole. Across the exhibition, three key directions—breaking barriers, building community and shaping experiences—emerge to highlight that design today goes beyond physical objects, empowering individuals, connecting people and creating meaningful engagement. Addressing the ceremony, Prof. Kun-pyo LEE, Dean of PolyU Design, remarked, “As the world becomes increasingly complex with the rise of AI and other advanced technologies, the urgency lies not only in their application, but also in how thoughtfully and ethically they are used. This year’s Show highlights how a new generation of designers is embracing these tools—using them to accelerate processes, raise critical questions and address real-world challenges. Their works share a common thread: a commitment to social and global impact, where technology is not the goal, but a means to serve people and their environments.” Mr Dennis CHAN, Outstanding Alumnus of PolyU Design and founder of an internationally renowned luxury jewellery brand, introduced the upcoming “PolyU Design Vectors Programme” at the ceremony. The Programme seeks to build an innovative network and foster collaboration between secondary schools and higher education institutions, offering young people insights into a diverse range of creative design projects and opportunities to learn from and exchange ideas with one another. Supported by PolyU Design alumni, this initiative also aims to further advance the School’s mission to showcase emerging design talent and works in Hong Kong, locally and internationally. This year’s Show features an array of student works spanning: capstone projects by the first cohort of graduating students from the BA (Hons) Scheme in Design, covering nine expanded specialisms; proposals co-designed with real-world clients under the University’s Work-Integrated Education (WIE) programme; collaborative projects developed by students from different specialisms under the “Integrated Designpreneurship” programme; and interdisciplinary design solutions by Master’s students. Together, these works demonstrate core future-facing competencies including AI literacy, creative problem-solving, sustainable thinking and social impact, showcasing how PolyU Design students navigate complexity in the era of technology and contribute meaningfully to society. Highlighted projects include a modular footwear system for individuals with leg length discrepancy, using 3D-printed inserts for personalised adjustment; a gamified multimedia platform supporting children with special educational needs in developing fine motor skills; a narrative initiative promoting products made by persons in custody to support reintegration into society; and a geriatric chair designed specifically for elderly women in residential care, combining comfort with medical-grade ergonomics. Additionally, several exhibits explore community-building and cultural engagement, and offer feasible innovative solutions. Among them are a drone logistics system rethinking cross-border shopping experiences; immersive activities that reframe sign language as a shared cultural experience; a visualised language toolkit promoting interaction between local and international students; and a phygital esports platform fostering a uniquely Hong Kong esports culture. PolyU is committed to nurturing creative talent with an innovative mindset and a strong sense of social responsibility. The University’s Art and Design disciplines are ranked 24th in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, achieving high global recognition. With a tradition of over 60 years, the PolyU Design Show has continued to evolve as a platform for innovation, collaboration and public engagement, enabling young local designers to showcase their talent while reflecting the University’s effort to drive design education, applied innovation and cross-sector collaboration. The PolyU Design Show 2026 is open to the public free of charge. For registration or to view the student’s projects online, please visit: https://2026.polyudesignshow.com/. Led by Sherry Chow Suet Ching, a graduating student from the BA (Hons) in Design (Product Design), the project “Tranquila” is a geriatric chair designed specifically for elderly women in residential care, which combines comfort with medical-grade ergonomics.  A gamified multimedia platform, “SensePlay”, was created by a group of students from the MSc programme in Innovative Multimedia Entertainment. The platform is designed to support children with special educational needs in developing fine motor skills. The project was awarded first runner-up at the Hong Kong Social Enterprise Challenge 2025-26.   Initiated by a student team from the Master of Design (Smart Service Design) programme and developed in collaboration with SF Express, the project “Crossgo” is a drone logistics system aimed at reshaping cross-border shopping experiences.

PolyU Design PhD Student Receives Innovation and Technology Scholarship for Interdisciplinary STEM Research in Human–Robot Interaction

Tsang Ka Wing, a PhD student at the PolyU School of Design, is among ten awardees of the For Our Future Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2025/26, receiving HKD80,000 in support of his STEM research project, Designing for Touch: Sensory Affordances of Companion Robot Dog Skin in Human–Robot Interaction. Established by the Greater Bay Area Homeland Youth Community Foundation, the For Our Future Scholarship supports Hong Kong youth in their study, career and entrepreneurship development while fostering opportunities within the Greater Bay Area. Now in its sixth edition, the scholarship attracted over 280 applications from 14 higher education institutions across Hong Kong. Ka Wing’s research situates itself within the field of Human–Robot Interaction (HRI), with a particular focus on tactile interaction design. His interdisciplinary study bridges design research, robotics, psychology, and materials science, exploring how the tactile qualities of robot “skin” can enable more comforting and meaningful human-robot interactions. Focusing on companion robot dogs, the project examines how different material properties influence users’ touch preferences, engagement, and overall interaction experience. The research ultimately aims to inform the design of robotic companions to support care and wellbeing applications. "Receiving this scholarship is incredibly encouraging, especially as the first awardee from a design background," Ka Wing said. "It highlights the vital role of design within STEM, bridging technology and human needs to create solutions that resonate. I am also deeply grateful for my supervisor’s unwavering support and the creative freedom to pursue this interdisciplinary research." Tsang Ka Wing is currently pursuing his PhD at PolyU Design under the supervision of Prof. Tina Luximon, Associate Dean (Research) and Leader of the Asian Ergonomics Design Lab (AEDLAB).  

Graphis Recognises PolyU Design Students at New Talent Awards 2026

We are pleased to announce that students from PolyU Design have achieved outstanding success at the Graphis New Talent Awards 2026, with 14 awarded entries across Gold, Silver and Honourable Mention categories. Among the winning projects is Zero Anew – Journey Unfolds, the visual identity for Design Show 2025.  The Graphis New Talent Awards is an international platform that recognises visionary student work and highlights the next generation of creative leaders worldwide. This year’s recognition reflects our students’ fresh perspectives, rigorous thinking and bold creative exploration, with many of the awarded works are outcomes from Information Design. Several projects, marked with #, involve cross-disciplinary collaboration from other disciplines, underscoring the value of teamwork and shared creative inquiry. Award Highlights GOLD Ajisen Ramen – Rebrand Students: TONG Nga Yau, Rachel; IP Tsz Yan, Ann; WONG Oi Tung, Eta Academic supervisor: Jana XING SILVER Zero Anew - Journey Unfolds # Students: CHAN Chun Yu Jerry; CHOW Yan Yee Step; MAK Wing Ting Ashley; MOK Chin Ying Daisy; SUM Ka Po Kristen; WONG Shuk Ting Lauren; WU Man Ying Maggie Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI Microplastics Invasion # Students: CHAN Wing Ling; HU Ching Yin; LAM Chin Wing, SIU Yau; YIP Hao Ran Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI Peace Poster Student: Betty Liu Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI Summer Olympic Games Visual Identity System – Cairo 2036 Student: Hannah LEE Academic supervisor: Martin LAU Dinoodle Student: Ng Shuk Yan, Cathy Academic supervisor: Martin LAU Tokyo Banana Packaging Redesign Student: CHENG Rachel Lok Yung Academic supervisor: Martin LAU Honorable Mention Toys Beyond Your Room # Students: LAM On I, Aki; YIM Po Yee, Bowie; PANG Sze Long, Joyce; YUEN Tsz Yung, Joanna; LEUNG Chi Man, Jasmine; ZHU Nga Laam, Anita Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI World Expo 2050 in Istanbul Students: MUI Cheuk Ling, Katherine; LAM Wing Chi, Christy; YUEN Tsz Yung, Joanna Academic supervisor: Jana XING 2050 VENICE EXPO Students: LEE Hesed, POON Ka Ying, SU Ka Yi Academic supervisor: Martin Lau Peace Poster Student: Hannah LEE  Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI 80th Anniversary of the end of WWII. Poster for Peace Student: ZHU Wenying   Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI Bee Syntax Student: FU Wai Yan Academic supervisor: Roberto VILCHIS ECHEVERRI & Prof. Johan Hoorn WEiRD? Student: HO Cheuk Yi Vanessa Academic supervisor: Martin Lau We extend our warmest congratulations to all awarded students and their academic supervisors on this remarkable international achievement. Their work exemplifies the creative excellence of our community. * Projects are created for educational purposes. All commercial brands depicted are “imaginary clients” selected for study, and PolyU Design does not imply or suggest any creative direction for these brands.

PolyU Design Students Win Gold A’ Design Award for Social Design Excellence

Students from the PolyU School of Design have received the Gold A’ Design Award in the Social Design category for their project Pocket Spaces – Social Playbook, a prestigious award given to top 3% designs that have demonstrated an exemplary high level of design excellence. Pocket Spaces – Social Playbook addresses the challenge of social disconnection in high density public housing. Designed as a social design toolkit, the project transforms underutilised corridors and stairwells into shared social nodes, using a portable manual and modular assembly system made from 100% recycled materials. With simple, tool free construction, residents can collaboratively build spaces that encourage spatial autonomy, fosters neighbourly bonds, and strengthen urban social resilience. The A’ Design Award & Competition is a globally recognised platform that honours excellence across design disciplines. Receiving a Gold Award signifies exceptional achievement, recognising work that demonstrates strong innovation, social impact, and responsible design practice at an international level.   Student Team – Estate of Mind: Pak Hei WANG, Ngai Man LEE, Kai Yin LIN, Nga Suet Julytha HO, Hiu Man CHIU Academic Supervisors: CHAN Kam Fai, Dr Sandy NG, Ms Charis POON, and Jonathan YU Study Programme: BA (Hons) in Design (Social Design) This award-winning project was supported by the PolyU School of Design International Competitions and Awards Subsidy Scheme 2025/26, which provides funding assistance to encourage student participation in leading international design competitions. The School extends its warmest congratulations to the student team, academic supervisors, and contributors for this outstanding achievement and for exemplifying how design can create meaningful and positive social change. Learn more about Pocket Spaces – Social Playbook on the A' Design Award official website.

PolyU School of Design Welcomes University of the Arts London Delegation and Signs Memorandum of Understanding

On 20 April 2026, the PolyU School of Design was pleased to welcome a delegation of senior representatives from the University of the Arts London (UAL) for a university visit aimed at fostering dialogue and strengthening institutional connections. The visit provided a valuable platform for open exchange on shared perspectives, institutional priorities, and potential avenues for collaboration. The UAL delegation also took part in a guided tour of the School, including a visit to the solo exhibition by Mr Raman Hui, an internationally acclaimed animation master and PolyU distinguished alumnus, while gaining insights into PolyU Design’s learning environment, teaching spaces and facilities, and the alumnus’s creative practice and artistic vision. UAL Delegation Prof. Karen Stanton, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Rathna Ramanathan, Provost, Central Saint Martins and UAL Executive Dean, Global Affairs Ms Joanna Brayton, Chief of Staff PolyU School of Design Representatives Prof. Kun-Pyo Lee, Dean Prof. Henry Duh, Associate Dean (Global & Industry Engagement) Prof. Tina Luximon, Associate Dean (Research) Prof. Stefan Sonntag, Internationalisation Advisor A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the visit, marking an important milestone in the relationship between the two institutions. The MoU was signed by Prof. Kun‑Pyo Lee, Dean of PolyU School of Design, and Prof. Rathna Ramanathan, Provost of Central Saint Martins and UAL Executive Dean, Global Affairs. The signing ceremony was witnessed by PolyU President Prof. Jin‑Guang Teng and UAL Vice-Chancellor Prof. Karen Stanton. During their visit, the Global Engagement Office (GEO) also arranged the UAL delegates to meet with the Faculty of Humanities (FH) and the School of Fashion and Textiles (SFT), and further enhancing cross-faculty dialogue and mutual understanding. We sincerely thank the UAL delegation for their visit and for the engaging and constructive conversations throughout the day. We look forward to continued exchange and to exploring further opportunities for collaboration between our institutions.

PolyU Innovative Multimedia Entertainment Students Achieve First Runner-up at Hong Kong Social Enterprise Challenge

How can design support meaningful occupational therapy practice for children with SEN? Students from PolyU’s MSc in Innovative Multimedia Entertainment (MScIME) programme have achieved First Runner Up and the Best Presentation Award (Semi Final) at the Hong Kong Social Enterprise Challenge with their final year capstone project, SensePlay. Selected among 184 submissions, the team advanced as one of the top eight finalists and was awarded HKD 150,000 in start-up funding to further develop the project as a social enterprise. SensePlay is a gamified multimedia platform that supports children with moderate to severe special educational needs (SEN) in developing self care fine motor skills through multisensory gameplay. With built in data logging and analytics, the design enables therapists to monitor progress in real time and make data informed therapeutic decisions, in collaboration with SEN education and rehabilitation partners.  The Hong Kong Social Enterprise Challenge (HKSEC), established in 2007, is a social venture start-up competition organised by the Centre for Entrepreneurship of The Chinese University of Hong Kong and sponsored by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau. The challenge aims to accelerate the growth of youth-led social enterprises with meaningful social impact.                             SensePlay  Students: Cho Ka Yan, Wong Ngo Fung and Siu Yat Long Supervisors: Prof. Wangda Zhu and Dr David Williams In partnership with: Caritas Lok Yi School, The Hong Kong Society for the Deaf, The Salvation Army Pre-School & School-Aged Integrated Rehabilitation Service, and Yang Memorial Methodist Social Service. SensePlay will be showcased to the public at our upcoming Design Show in June. Interested parties are warmly invited to visit and experience the project in person. Once again, congratulations to the team on this well-deserved recognition!

Research | PolyU Design’s Brian Kwok Captures Tokyo’s Soul Through 900 Signboards in New Publication

The best way to understand a city is to walk its streets and seek meaning in the everyday elements that people often overlook.   Inspired by Wajiro Kon’s “Modernology” (考現學) approach—systematically observing, recording, and analysing the small things in modern urban life to grasp social change— Prof. Brian Kwok, Associate Professor of PolyU Design carried out extensive fieldwork in Tokyo. He documented over 900 signboards across ten iconic districts and compiled the findings into his new book: “Tokyo Signboards and Visual Culture” 《東京招牌與視覺文化》.   This book takes readers on a captivating visual journey, revealing Tokyo’s diverse aesthetic styles through vibrant, eclectic signboards—from the post-war market chaos of Ueno’s Ameya Yokochō to Shimokitazawa’s subcultural creativity, Shinjuku’s nostalgic lantern-lit alleys, and Ginza’s high-fashion sophistication. These signs are living artifacts that encode the city’s history, soul, and evolving character.   A valuable resource for designers, urbanists, and curious travellers, the book inspires us to “read” the city—turning a casual stroll into a profound discovery, where every signboard tells the story of an ever-changing metropolis. Learn more Brian’s neon sign project has been recently featured in the RTHK programme 《夜．遊香港 ——第三晚 - 霓虹夜色》, bringing the importance of neon sign culture preservation to the public. Watch now  

LKSD&I Funding Scheme Briefing Session (10 Mar 2026)

A briefing session was held for PolyU Design students to learn more about the funding support provided by LKSD&I during their studies at PolyU. Discover opportunities to secure support and transform your innovative ideas into impactful projects! Funding schemes include: • Capstone Project Funding Scheme (for BA Year 4, MDes & MSc students) • Ideation Funding Scheme 2025/26 • KTEO – International Future Challenge • KTEO – Micro Fund 2025/26 Here is the video of the briefing session:

PolyU Design and EcoFlow Sign MOU to "Power a New World" Through Industry Collaboration

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University School of Design (PolyU Design) has entered a new phase of industry collaboration with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with EcoFlow Inc. (EcoFlow), a leading provider of eco-friendly energy solutions. The agreement aims to create structured internship opportunities for students in the Master of Design (MDes) programme, particularly those in the Intelligent Systems Design (ISD) specialism. The MOU was signed by Prof. Kun‑Pyo Lee, Dean of PolyU Design, and Ms Sissi Luo, Product Director of EcoFlow. The ceremony was witnessed by Prof. Henry Duh, Associate Dean (Global and Industry Engagement), and Prof. Stephen J. Wang, Master of Design (MDes) Scheme Leader and Specialism Leader of ISD, PolyU Design. Representatives from EcoFlow in attendance included Mr Johnsan Yang, Mr Jingqi Cai, Mr Alier Zhong, and Mr Sky Peng. This partnership marks a meaningful step forward in bridging academia and industry. Through hands‑on, real‑world project engagement at EcoFlow, MDes students will gain invaluable experience that enhances both their academic development and professional readiness. The collaboration offers MDes students a unique opportunity to engage with real‑world projects shaping the future of sustainable living. By working directly with EcoFlow’s teams in product, UX, ID and packaging design, students will gain first-hand experience in how intelligent energy solutions contribute to smarter, better everyday living. This synergy not only enriches students’ academic and professional growth but also reinforces PolyU Design’s commitment to cultivating talent that advances human‑centred innovation in a rapidly evolving energy landscape.   理大設計攜手正浩創新　簽署合作備忘錄 落實「注力未來」校企合作 香港理工大學設計學院（理大設計）近日與智能環保能源解決方案領先企業正浩創新簽署合作備忘錄，開展新一階段的校企合作。是次協議旨在為設計學碩士（MDes）課程學生，尤其是智能系統設計專業學生，建立具規模及系統性的實習機會。 簽署儀式由設計學院院長李健杓教授與正浩創新產品部羅女士代表雙方簽署。出席並見證儀式的包括負責全球與產業協作的副院長杜本麟教授，以及設計學碩士及ISD課程主任王佳教授。正浩創新亦派出多位設計核心人員參與。 是次合作為推動學界與業界緊密接軌邁出重要一步。透過參與正浩創新的實務項目，MDes學生將獲得寶貴的專業體驗，有助提升學術視野及職涯準備。學生更可直接與正浩創新的產品、UX、ID 及包裝設計團隊合作，親身瞭解智慧能源方案如何推動可持續生活，並為日常生活帶來更智慧、更便利的體驗。此協作不僅豐富學生的專業養成，亦彰顯理大設計在快速演變的能源與設計領域中，致力培育具前瞻性、以人為本的創新人才。

Congratulations to the Awardees of the School Awards for Outstanding Achievement 2025

The School Awards for Outstanding Achievement, organised by the University, recognise dedicated staff members for their exceptional contributions in teaching, research and scholarly activities, and knowledge transfer. The Awards were presented during the School’s Lunar New Year Lunch Gathering by the Dean of the School of Design, Prof. Kun‑pyo Lee. We are pleased to congratulate the following faculty members on being selected as recipients of the 2025 awards. Award Categories and Awardees Teaching Teaching (Individual): Mr Roberto Vilchis Echeverri Research and Scholarly Activities Research and Scholarly Activities (Individual): Prof. Tina Yan Luximon Early Career Young Researcher: Prof. Zhibin Zhou Research Student Supervision: Ir Prof. Kin Wai Michael Siu Knowledge Transfer Knowledge Transfer: Society (Team): Prof. Yi-teng Shih (Team Leader), Mr Man To Yiu, Prof. Jeffrey Chun Fai Ho, Mr Kam Fai Chan, Dr Clifford Sze Tsan Choy, Mr Benny Ding Leong, and Mr Roberto Vilchis Echeverri The nominations were reviewed by the School Assessment Panel, chaired by the Associate Vice President (Undergraduate Programme) on behalf of the Chairman of the School Board. The Panel devoted significant effort to reviewing all nominations and conducting in‑depth deliberations on selection of the awardees. The School expresses its sincere appreciation to the Panel for its dedication and valuable contribution to this important annual exercise.   Teaching (Individual): Mr Roberto Vilchis Echeverri Research and Scholarly Activities (Individual): Prof. Tina Yan Luximon Early Career Young Researcher: Prof. Zhibin Zhou Research Student Supervision: Ir Prof. Kin Wai Michael Siu Knowledge Transfer: Society (Team): Prof. Yi-teng Shih (Team Leader), Mr Man To Yiu, Prof. Jeffrey Chun Fai Ho, Mr Kam Fai Chan,  Dr Clifford Sze Tsan Choy, Mr Benny Ding Leong, and Mr Roberto Vilchis Echeverri