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U PMand the Shanghai-based Tongji University College of Design & Innovation launched a joint project in 2015 to create a modern concept for the traditional Chinese tea house using UPM’s innovative wood-based biomaterials. The project saw its culmination with the unveiling of the Biofore Tea House at the Moi Helsinki event in Beijing, China on 13–15May 2016. Designed by students fromTongji University, the Biofore Tea House has a modular design supporting efficient manufacturing andmobility. Under the guidance of Professor Chen Yongqun and lecturer Mo Jiao and with the support of UPM’s experts, a team of six design students conducted an in-depth exploration of Chinese tea culture and UPM’s innovative bio-based products. “This project is a good example of Biofore thinking in practice. It involves international collaboration with talented young students who used their design skills and UPM’s innovative biomaterials to produce something that is beautiful, meaningful and sustainable. The Biofore Tea House is the perfect symbol for Biofore in China. It pays tribute to China’s rich cultural heritage and looks to the future with confidence,” says Elisa Nilsson , Vice President, Brand and Communications, UPM. All UPMmaterials used in the Biofore Tea House are sustainable and recyclable. Strong, stiff and durableWISA® Plywood is used for the frame and decorative skin. UPMGrada®, a durable and ecological thermoformable wood material, showcases its endless design opportunities in the main walls. The floor

Six students with designer Shen Jingliang.

Chen Yongqun

The Biofore Tea House pays tribute to China’s rich cultural heritage and looks to the future with confidence.

Mo Jiao

Biofore Tea House Ancient tradition meets modern biomaterials in the Biofore Tea House.

is made of high- quality, modern

UPMProFi® Design Deck composite,

which is both recycled and

recyclable. It pleases the eye with beautiful colours inspired by

Finnish nature. It is also pleasant to touch and is a strong,

Elisa Nilsson

virtually carefree material.

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