HONG KONG – December 2, 2011 - Steelcase Inc., a global office environments manufacturer, announced today that 
its Manifesto system and i2i collaborative chair received Merit Recognition in the Product and Industrial Design category in the Design For Asia Awards (DFAA) 2011. Hosted by the Hong Kong Design Center (HKDC), the announcement of the Awards at a Gala ceremony on 1st December is one of the signature events of the Business of Design Week (BODW), Asia’s leading annual design event, which this year runs from 28th November to 3rd December.
Designed to foster team collaboration, the i2i chair—named for the eye-to-eye engagement it encourages— was designed specifically to foster collaboration, supporting a variety of postures so people can remain engaged by orienting themselves to their fellow collaborators, while staying focused and comfortable.
The second Steelcase DFA Merit Recipient was the Manifesto System. This new system is the product of Steelcase’s extensive research in Asia into today's workers including Gen-Y and the evolving workplace, which provided insights into the demands opposed by the ever-changing work-life balance. The Manifesto system meets the challenges of contemporary workplace environments with a 3D design philosophy that brings a fresh and very efficient approach to the use of space and space management, and the flexibility of easy modular configuration to meet changing individual, team and organizational demands.
Mr. Uli Gwinner, President, Steelcase Asia Pacific said: “The award for Manifesto is our first Merit Recognition for a product specifically researched, designed and manufactured in Asia for Asian markets, and it is an honor to be recognized at this prestigious event, which is boost for all at us at Steelcase Asia Pacific. Creating outstanding solutions locally enables us to forge ahead on addressing the needs of current workers especially Generation Y as it becomes a dominant force in shaping China, and the workplace of the immediate future."
First hosted by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) in 2002, Business of Design Week (BODW) is an inspiring ideas exchange platform for Asia’s most innovative thinkers and business leaders. BODW continues to inspire valuable dialogue through an unrivalled blend of forums, seminars, exhibitions and outreach programs for designers, business leaders, educators, SMEs and the public to exchange ideas and address a wide array of 21st century challenges.
About Steelcase
Steelcase Inc. helps create great experiences—wherever work happens. Our brands offer a comprehensive portfolio of workplace furnishings, products and services, inspired by nearly 100 years of insight gained serving the world’s leading organizations. We are globally accessible through a network of channels, including over 650 dealers. We design for social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Steelcase is a global, publicly traded company leading our industry with fiscal 2011 revenue of approximately $2.4 billion.
For more information visit: www.steelcase.asia