Examination of entries for this award is always difficult. It requires subtle perspectives and always gets me into deep thought. This is because, as a judge, we need to have a solid awareness to imagine the relationship between the suggested products and ordinary consumers.

Gold Prize
Many products on the market are in completed form when purchased, and you just want to use it for as long as possible. This towel, however, gradually fits more comfortably in your hands and on your body after being washed many times and, some day in the future, might be divided into smaller pieces for use as a washcloth or even a floor cloth. This entry lets me imagine the passing of time. New and convenient products are created everyday, but we also have a strong desire to live simply without increasing our belongings.

• Kazuko Koike
• Takashi Sugimoto
• Kenya Hara
• Naoto Fukasawa
• Jasper Morrison