Product Design Graduates recognised at the IDI Graduate Awards

The Institute of Designers in Ireland (IDI) Graduate Awards ceremony was held in Ulster University’s Belfast School of Art on the 24^th October.  These awards acknowledge outstanding and innovative design by graduates at the beginning of their creative careers. This year, six graduates of the School of Architecture and Product Design were shortlisted for awards at the ceremony. 

 Ashley Corcoran, Curo – Winner: Design for Digital; Commended: Medical Device Design:

“Curo uses advanced sensors and a threshold algorithm to swiftly detect the pre-warning signs of anaphylaxis. Instantly, it delivers an alert via the smart assistant and offers real-time treatment instructions. It also sends an SMS to parents/guardians, notifying them of the reaction and providing their child’s location. Curo mitigates the risk of severe reactions, potentially saving lives. It brings peace of mind to families and promotes safety in schools and childcare settings.” 

 
Ko Kallewaard, SUAS – Winner: Design for Change; Commended: Product Design 

“Current air travel for wheelchair users involves separation from your own custom wheelchair, the use of unsuited and unfamiliar equipment and reliance on poorly trained staff. SUAS offers a different approach. Before boarding, your wheelchair equipped with a small locking system that allows you to board and fly in your own wheelchair on any plane fitted with the new SUAS system. No more worrying about damage to your custom equipment or discomfort from mishandling –just the freedom to travel independently.” 
 

Robert Casey, Droplet – Winner: Universal Design; Commended: Medical Device Design 

“People with dysphagia (trouble swallowing), often find it hard to swallow liquids safely and feel embarrassed using specialised cups because of their medical or childish design. Droplet dispenses a consistent 10ml of liquid and interchangeable parts tailored to personal needs while looking like a regular travel cup. This thoughtful design helps people with swallowing difficulties drink confidently and comfortably. The familiar appearance reduces unwanted attention, helping users stay relaxed, hydrated, and able to enjoy social activities without discomfort.” 
 

Anna Hurley, Wave Handwashing Suite – Winner: Product Design 

“In our fast-paced world, machine convenience leads to excessive washing that causes wear, energy and water usage. Ideal for small, everyday loads like gym gear or delicates, the Wave Washbag features a silicone washboard texture for gentle yet effective cleaning, while the Wave Spinner eliminates manual wringing. The Wave Washbag also includes a micro drainage filter, preventing synthetic microfibers from entering waterways. Crafted from recycled ocean plastics, the suite promotes environmentally conscious design, encouraging responsible clothing care, one wave at a time.” 
 

Olivia Humphreys, Athena – Shortlisted: Medical Device Design 

“Chemotherapy-induced alopecia is a distressing side effect common to specific treatments in oncology. Alopecia can significantly reduce quality of life and negatively affect body image for patients with cancer. Scalp Cooling treatment aims to mitigate this side effect. Athena is a scalp-cooling device consisting of a carry case and a wearable headpiece. Athena aims to provide patients with a more accessible and effective option for scalp cooling treatment, giving patients control over their care in a time of little control.” 
 

Regina Granahan, Bloom – Shortlisted: Universal Design

“Bloom strives to help people see menopause as a new natural part of life rather than seeing it as a loss, stop or end of something. One of the most common symptoms of menopause people suffer with is vaginal dryness and it effects around 50% of people post-menopause. From my research I found that the treatment for vaginal dryness provides a dissatisfactory experience for people. Bloom provides a comfortable and easy- to-use applicator that was designed with the users experience in mind.” 

All IDI Graduate Award winners and commended entries for 2024 are listed here.

The IDI is the largest and oldest association of Irish design professionals, and longest established creative forum in Ireland.  The IDI Graduate Awards are adjudicated by an international panel of industry and educational leaders.