The Kaj Franck Design Prize is a recognition award, whose receiver brings forth the central spirit and principles of designer Kaj Franck’s (1911–1989) oeuvre: high-quality, democratic and functional design that solves practical challenges and creates new opportunities for companies using design competence. If the winner also brings beauty and joy to everyday life and improves the quality of life, this will be counted as special merit.
The Kaj Franck Design Prize was established by Design Forum Finland in 1992 and it is funded by the Finnish Fair Foundation.
The Kaj Franck Design Prize can be awarded to a Finnish designer or team, or one that resides or works in Finland. The prize sum is 10,000 euros. The recipient is chosen by a prize jury and the prize is awarded on the basis of the whole oeuvre of the designer or team. The Kaj Franck medal, given to the awarded designers, is designed by sculptor Tapio Junno.
Photo: Kari Virtanen, Arkitecture cupboard, oak; Konstruktio bench, oak, photo: Nikari
Kari Virtanen founded his own one-man workshop Nikari as early as 1967. Along the years, the company evolved into a design furniture brand. Since the beginning, the emphasis of Virtanen and Nikari’s work has been in combining traditional carpentry and design.
Johanna Gullichsen is known for her interior textiles that combine traditional weaves. She has also made determined and systematic efforts to update traditional textile types and patterns.
Ilkka Suppanen has made a long and successful career in the field of design and art. In his designs, he strives for usability, necessity and a long life span.