An undoubtable highlight of the HAWA expo in Ho Chi Minh in March this year was the display of the Hoa Mai Furniture competition finalists’ designs. This was the 20th year of collaboration between The Handicraft and Wood Industry Association of HCMC (HAWA) and the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC) and the outcome of this long-established design competition did not disappoint. With over 320 initial entries, a shortlist of 111 was whittled to the top 11 in the open category which were manufactured and displayed. 

 All the pieces were created from American red oak, the most abundant species in the US forest resource. Similar in strength and grain to its better-known cousin, American white oak, American red oak is more readily available and thus a cost-effective option for high quality furniture design. The young designers were given the opportunity to experience this premium quality, sustainable material to realise their creative visions, 

Majoring in Industrial Design at the University of Architecture in HCMC, Quang took the highest honour of first prize for Plank Bench. Created with an efficient and streamlined production process in mind, the design is a study in simplicity, functionality and elegant beauty.  Quang commented of the material “I believe American red oak is a great choice for my design. It's sturdy, durable, and perfectly suits my simple, traditional structure. The colour of red oak is something many designers have to consider, but for me, its natural hue is beautiful, gentle, and elegant”. 

John Chan, the Regional Director for AHEC Southeast Asia & Greater China said of the competition entries “It is always a delight to see emerging Vietnamese designers in this competition develop truly world class pieces. It is fitting that for the 20th anniversary of the competition we have encouraged a focus on sustainability. Growth outstrips harvest in the US forest each year. Quite simply it is increasing in volume more quickly than it is used. However, it is important to also pay attention to the role that designers, manufacturers and we as consumers play in the use of this precious and thriving natural resource. It is wonderful that so many this year have thoroughly considered the expansive meaning of sustainable design. I congratulate the winners of the 2023/2024 and AHEC looks forward to continuing to support the growth of young designers in Vietnam and across Southeast Asia.”