The sixth TCOD (Taichung Original Design) city branding selection, organized by the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Taichung City Government, held its award ceremony on July 16 at Lin Wedding Garden. A total of 27 outstanding locally designed products received TCOD certification. Showcasing Taichung's creativity and design excellence, these award-winning products will be featured at the 2026 Creative Expo Taiwan beginning on August 6, presenting the city's rich design heritage and diverse achievements in cultural and creative industries.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that the Taichung City Government has long been committed to fostering the development of cultural and creative industries. Over the years, TCOD-certified products have spanned a wide range of categories, including craftsmanship, fashion accessories, and lifestyle products, demonstrating the growing international competitiveness of Taichung's original brands.

This year's competition attracted 105 entries. Following a rigorous review by a panel of professional judges, 27 products were selected for certification, including 8 craft products, 7 visual and packaging design projects, and 12 creative lifestyle products. Together, these works reflect the city's strong design foundation and vibrant creative energy.

A new "THE BEST" Award was introduced this year, with "Hanabi Trivet" by home décor brand umami receiving the highest honor. According to project manager Chang Wei-Jen, the design redefines the "end" of discarded wood as the "beginning" of new design. Through a modular concept, the product allows flexible combinations while extending the life of reclaimed materials. More than a trivet, it serves as a functional object that brings warmth to everyday living, an elegant centerpiece for the dining table, and a symbol of sustainability in daily life.

Another umami design, "Yy Chair," was also selected in the Creative Lifestyle category. Combining sophisticated solid-wood bending techniques with ergonomic design, the chair offers both comfort and refined craftsmanship. Together, the two works embody TCOD's core values of local culture, design innovation, and environmental sustainability.

Among the winners in the Visual and Packaging Design category, "Sharing with You Fish Floss Box" by Wanwen Food Factory captures the dynamic image of a Pacific blue marlin leaping from the sea, conveying the brand's deep connection to the ocean and its Taichung roots. Meanwhile, Wu-Tsang Tea Company was recognized for "Taiwan Tea Book: Collector's Gift Box of Taiwan's Top Ten Signature Tea Flavor Wheels." Inspired by the form of a book, the package combines refined color planning and illustration to create an intuitive and visually engaging tea experience.

In the Crafts category, LUMIROOMI received recognition for its work "Floating Ripples." Created with translucent patterned glass, the piece incorporates traditional Taiwanese architectural motifs, including the classic begonia flower and cross-pattern window designs, to create a decorative artwork with rhythmic visual movement and layered spatial aesthetics.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau further announced that the Taichung City Government will once again lead the selected brands to participate in the 2026 Creative Expo Taiwan. From August 6 to August 12, a dedicated "TCOD Taichung Original" pavilion will be showcased at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center, inviting visitors to explore and purchase certified products while experiencing the creativity and diversity of Taichung's original design.

For more information about this year's certified products, please visit the official TCOD Taichung Original website at  or follow the TCOD Taichung Original Facebook page.