Pecha Kucha | Surface Design Show 2016

Pecha Kucha is a relatively new way of presenting ideas and information. Specifically designed for more creative industries and minds, it is a way of presenting and absorbing information quickly. The word pecha kucha means chit chat in Japanese and this format of presenting originated in Tokyo in 2003 by Klein Dytham architecture.

The format of a pecha kucha is that you have 20 images, each spoken about for 20 seconds. This means you have to focus and condense the information you want to give and also that you hold a more captivated audience.

With the rise of social media and E communication, it is easy to become overwhelmed by information. Pecha Kucha talks give an opportunity to learn about subjects quickly and efficiently, with any more in depth research something you yourself can be proactive in doing. They are also highly inspiring with a focus on visuals as well as words.

At burmatex, we have presented a few pecha kuchas internally, usually after attending trade fairs. As well as it being a quick and fun way to share information with colleagues, it also is a great way to decipher what you yourself have learnt. As you can't go into much detail you have to break down an event and really get to the crux of what you saw, learnt and were truly inspired by.

One of the best pecha kucha events we attend are the annual ones held at the surface design show. These talks are given by architects and designers from our peer group who represent a great source of knowledge and inspiration. We always leave excited and full of ideas! My notes from these talks are always full of keywords, references to read further into and pattern ideas.

The range of what is discussed at the pecha kucha evenings vary hugely. From how long it takes to design and build a skyscraper to the importance of light in design to why playful office environments produce better work. The surface design show pecha kucha evening is something we all look forward to each year and a trend that we hope will continue to grow in the design community.