At the cross­roads of social media and the real world, an inno­v­a­tive con­test called Project UDe­sign is mak­ing his­tory. First-of-its-kind in the fur­ni­ture world, social media is being used to "crowd source" a new wing chair design from Century.

The com­pe­ti­tion is a col­lab­o­ra­tion between BiOH, Cen­tury Fur­ni­ture, Ultra­suede and Savan­nah Col­lege of Art and Design. SCAD design stu­dents were asked to design a wing back chair that would be made using BioH (a soy-based foam) cush­ions and Ultra­suede EcoDe­sign uphol­stery, which is man­u­fac­tured with recy­cled materials. Fifteen orig­i­nal designs have been nar­rowed down to six, with vot­ing open for the final three designs on Face­book.

The com­pe­ti­tion is amaz­ing from so many angles. First, the win­ning design is being cho­sen by the pub­lic via Face­book. This is truly a first in the fur­ni­ture world. Sec­ond, the stu­dent whose design is cho­sen will not only have their chair pro­duced by Cen­tury Fur­ni­ture, but will also receive roy­al­ties on every sale. What a way to launch a career! Finally, in the most pub­lic of forums, con­sumers and the entire fur­ni­ture indus­try will have a chance to wit­ness sus­tain­able fur­ni­ture design and learn about avail­able eco-friendly options. Green and gor­geous collide!

The amaz­ing six semi-finalists are shown below. You have until Octo­ber 3^rd to help select the three final­ists by vot­ing here.

On Mon­day, Octo­ber 4^th, the three final­ists will be announced. Vot­ing con­tin­ues online through Octo­ber 19^th for the win­ning stu­dent design. That lucky stu­dent will be announced Octo­ber 20^th at the High Point Mar­ket. Vote for your favorite and become part of this history-making project! For even more infor­ma­tion, see the video.