THE NEXT COLOUR LANGUAGE
We celebrate the winning teams of Zuyd University, Maastricht
This time's theme has challenged students to explore how colour can communicate, influence behaviour and change the relationship between product and user. Students from 3 design schools have been working on the challenge: NABA Nuova Accademia di Belle Arti, Milan - Zuyd University, Maastricht - and The Faculty of Fine Arts in Warsaw.
Today, we are celebrating the winners of the EPDA AWARD FUTURE PACKAGING of Zuyd University in Maastricht! Congratulations to Shannon, Emma and Evy for their great concepts:
1st Place — SOLENE
by SHANNON BEELEN
Color as environmental awareness: Solene transforms invisible UV and artificial light exposure into visible signals through photochromatic packaging. Shifting between blue and orange depending on light conditions, the design turns color into real-time information — helping users understand when their skin needs protection. A minimal refillable glass package and accessible dispensing system complete this thoughtful blend of care, technology, and intuitive design.
2nd Place — REBALANCE
by EMMA DRESSEN
Color as wellness guidance: Rebalance reimagines menstrual care as a moment of self-care rather than necessity. The biodegradable organic cotton products are paired with essential oils, each identified through a specific color linked to its benefits — calming lavender, warming ginger, and energising rosemary. The refined packaging transforms menstrual care into a calm, intentional and empowering ritual.
3rd Place — SPROOT
by EVY STEVENS
Color as a learning tool: Sproot helps children become familiar with new flavours through a playful taste-training system. Using a colour language based on the five basic tastes, the packaging visually translates flavour profiles into an intuitive code. By linking colour to taste, the design supports curiosity, repeated exposure, and long-term food acceptance while turning tasting into a positive learning experience.
Congratulations to all the students who took part in this edition. Your projects show how color can move beyond aesthetics to become a powerful language for communication, behaviour, and design innovation.
A big thank you to the tutors and everyone supporting the epda FUTURE PACKAGING AWARD and helping shape the next generation of packaging designers.
