Different Scales. Different Contexts.
When Everyday Systems Become Design Questions
What if the systems we barely notice became the most considered parts of our environment? Much of the built environment is shaped by systems we rarely consider: elevators, air circulation, filtration and maintenance. Yet these systems quietly define how we move, breathe and inhabit space. Take a look at some of the recently published award-winning projects from the Red Dot Award: Design Concept.
New Concept Design of TWIN
New Concept Design of TWIN redefines elevator interiors through a seamless full-glass exterior and advanced user interface. Designed by TK Elevator Korea in South Korea, this concept is a Red Dot: Best of the Best winner in the Interior Design Elements category. The project combines curved glass construction, vertically aligned floor displays for spatial awareness, and AR Destination Selection Control to reduce cognitive effort while enhancing accessibility and sustainability.
Air Purification Systems for Elevator – Handrail and Bar
Air Purification Systems for Elevator – Handrail and Bar transforms everyday handrails and bars into active health guardians. Developed by Hyundai Elevator in South Korea, this concept is a Red Dot winner in the Interior Design Elements category. The project integrates advanced ventilation, HEPA filtration, and UV-C sterilisation in a compact, quiet form to neutralise pollutants and pathogens without disrupting elevator aesthetics.
airCloset
airCloset presents air conditioning as a sculptural element in modern interiors. Developed by Hitachi-Johnson Controls Air Conditioning, Inc. in Japan, this concept is a Red Dot: Best of the Best winner in the Heating & Air Conditioning category. The project combines minimalist cabinet design, continuous vent harmony lines, and windless airflow technology to deliver even temperature distribution while blending seamlessly as a decorative focal point.
Scroll
Scroll transforms air conditioner maintenance through intuitive, visible filter access. Designed by Yang Zeyuan with team Zhang Jinghong, Xie Menglin, He Yuxin, Xu Yuhui, Hou Haiping, and Tian Weijing, this concept is a Red Dot winner in the Heating and Air Conditioning category. The project draws inspiration from a tape measure to enable effortless side-pull filter release and cleaning, with a status indicator screen to simplify upkeep and prevent dust dispersion.
Rethinking the Invisible
These concepts show how familiar, often-unnoticed systems can become rich opportunities for thoughtful design. They bring fresh attention and care to elements we use every day, improving movement, health, comfort, and ease in subtle but meaningful ways. How does giving more consideration to the ordinary change the way we design for daily life?
Ideas that shape the future: Red Dot Award: Design Concept 2026
The Red Dot Award: Design Concept is aimed at visionary designers who develop answers to tomorrow’s challenges with bold ideas and forward-looking concepts. Submissions during the standard registration period are possible until 18 March 2026, with the late registration period running until 29 April 2026. Now is the right time to submit innovative concepts, highlight new perspectives and actively participate in shaping the world of tomorrow.
