Urban Chick recognised by British Standards Institution Environmental Design Award

Press release - 3 July 2003

Chicken coop creation called 'Omlet' is rewarded for a student from Banbury

James Tuthill, a postgraduate from Banbury, Oxfordshire, at the Royal College of Art was last night awarded a prestigious BSI Environmental Design Award, as one of the runners up. James received his prize of £1,500 at the annual awards ceremony held at the Royal College of Art.

James has created the eglu, a new chicken coop, using contemporary design and materials. The user rents the eglu and chickens from Omlet - the chicken rental company. The company will deliver to the door, install and provide start-up instructions. This service and product encourages people to view chickens as viable pets, especially for those with small gardens or who live in a town or city. Omlet provides families and schools with a fun, low-maintenance, egg-producing pet.

James commented, "It's fantastic to receive an award for Omlet. I am starting up this company next year and am hoping the idea will take off in all urban areas With people so uncertain now about where their food comes from, at least they can be assured that their eggs are fresh and organic. The BSI Environmental Design Award has really encouraged me to consider the importance of environmental and quality standards in my work."

What is the BSI Environmental Design Award?

The BSI Environmental Design Award was established by the British Standards Institution to encourage students at the Royal College of Art to promote research into the effect of environmental and quality standards on the performance of their design. The BSI/Royal College of Art partnership reaffirms the thinking that good design, best environmental practice and profitability can work hand in hand.

Designers are encouraged to consider how their invention will impact on the environment in which they operate, how they can use the environment to enhance their design and how they can highlight environmental challenges through their design.

Sir David John, the BSI Chairman, presented the award and commented, "I am delighted to be able to present James with this award on behalf of BSI. James's design is both original and innovative, highlighting the relevance and importance of environmental considerations in the design process."