strangely familiar
Necessity may be the mother of all invention, but innovation will ensure we don't waste time re-inventing the wheel
![Due to its light weight translucence and vivid ceiling, daylighting, interior design, lighting, black, white](https://res.cloudinary.com/trends-publishing/image/upload/dpr_1.0,g_center,w_1280/f_auto,q_auto:best/0057088.jpg)
One of the hallmarks of an enduring product is its ability to be used for a range of applications. Similarly, the secret to creating inspired design is the ability to think outside the square.
The inaugural PSP Design Challenge was conceived to showcase both of these ideas, says PSP marketing manager Chris Booth.
"The design challenge was open to anyone who specified a PSP product for use in a residential, commercial or industrial application, as well as for decorative or fine art use. The only real criteria was that the nominated projects had to have been completed between April 2005 and April 2007."
PSP received more than 1200 expressions of interest, and 40 projects were submitted for judging.
![Supreme Award winner of the inaugural PSP Design facade, shade, siding, window, window blind, window covering, window treatment, white, brown](https://res.cloudinary.com/trends-publishing/image/upload/c_scale,dpr_1.0,g_center,w_1280/f_auto,q_auto:best/0057090.jpg)
"The judging criteria was set by an independent panel of judges. A PSP product such as PlexiGlas, Satinice, or Polycarbonate sheeting had to be used in a substantial way within the project. Then it came down to originality of design, meeting the client brief, overall quality, and so forth," says Booth.
"We didn't have categories as such, each of the 40 projects submitted was judged on its individual merits."
The overall winner was a solar outdoor shower designed by Richard Gourley.
"The SunShower rated highly on the judging criteria. It demonstrates a particularly original use of materials, while its ecological benefits, singular design and technical development ensure it is a stand-out product," says Booth.
![Polycarbonate sheeting was sanded to achieve the textured. architecture, daylighting, green, light, lighting, yellow, brown](https://res.cloudinary.com/trends-publishing/image/upload/c_scale,dpr_1.0,g_center,w_1280/f_auto,q_auto:best/0057092.jpg)
The next step for the company is to evaluate the design challenge itself, originally slated to be held every two years.
"From a business point of view, the challenge gave PSP an opportunity to familiarise architects and designers with the full range of products. Many know us for just one or two product ranges. During the challenge we profiled 15 different product groups, and we're currently reviewing the feedback to assess the ongoing feasibility of the challenge," says Booth.
For details, contact PSP, 320 Rosedale Rd, Albany, Auckland, phone (09) 415 2800, fax (09) 415 2809. Email: customerservices@psp.co.nz, or visit the website: www.psp.co.nz.
Story by: Trendsideas
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