How to demonstrate excellence

With only a few weeks until the 19 January application deadline, Design Guild Mark season is officially upon us and we are raring to go.

For anyone still considering to submit an application for this year’s judging process, we have taken a closer look at the eight criteria that our judges have in their metaphorical quivers to assess whether a piece demonstrates excellence in design, materials, manufacture and function, thus deserving to be awarded a Design Guild Mark.

Are the materials appropriate?

The Design Guild Mark is an award for both domestic and contract furniture and depending upon the piece’s intended end use, the materials used will differ greatly. For example, a chair that’s been made for use in a hotel or waiting room will need a robust fabric or upholstery to cope with the number of people using it on a daily basis.

Are the materials from sustainable sources?

At a time when social media makes it easy for people to name and shame businesses for their shoddy practises, understanding and demonstrating concern for the materials used in production is essential. More importantly though, taking a responsible approach to sustainability is the ethical thing to do.

Does the piece show new thinking?

Excellent design will break new ground rather than simply rinse and repeat tired, old ideas.

Does it represent value?

No matter what the price of a piece, all designs should offer value for the money being spent. If a single piece destined for contract use costs a fortune to manufacture, a specifier looking to buy in bulk will not be interested.

Does it solve a problem?

Furniture should be as practical as it is beautiful. An extending dining table caters for both the day to day and special occasions while a desk with intelligent cable management keeps ugly wires at bay.

Is it fit for purpose?

A cumbersome folding chair or a shelving system that buckles under weight is no use to anyone. Pieces awarded a Design Guild Mark must effortlessly do what they were designed for.

Does the design have longevity?

Will the piece stand the test of time? Will the owner still proudly display it after years of use? Is the product robust enough for its intended use? These need to be considered. A flash in the pan design will not be remembered.

Has the design been refined for and is it capable of being produced in volume?

This is crucial as the Design Guild Mark is an award for furniture in volume production. If the designer cannot prove that it’s been designed for manufacture in batches of at least 100 then the piece will not make it through to the judging day.

If you have any questions about the criteria or the application form, please get in touch with Doreen Oddy, guild marks manager, by emailing guildmarks@furnituremakers.org.uk