HomeBound

Packaging Design - Finding Home

Following a series of pro-democracy protests and stringent COVID-19 measures, Hong Kong has experienced a significant exodus since 2019 (Pitrelli, 2022). Nearly 500,000 residents have left the city, leading to economic and sociopolitical challenges (CFHK Foundation, 2023). This wave of migration has not only affected the local workforce and economy but has also created a cultural shift among emigrated residents who struggle to preserve their cultural identity and heritage in their new homes abroad. This ongoing migration has created a unique dynamic within the Hong Kong diaspora. As people move to various parts of the world, they carry their authentic culture, traditions, and values. However, the physical distance poses challenges in maintaining and promoting these cultural elements, adding mental stress and cultural bereavement to the emigrants’ burdens (Eisenbruch, 1991).

All photos credit to: Li Oun Liau & Hannah Kook

To address cultural displacement, HomeBoundembraces the concept of sending letters and remittances as primary forms of diasporic support. Remittances play a crucial role in preserving and promoting cultural identity within communities (Flores, 2007). They support migrants with everyday needs in both monetary and object forms, strengthening their relationships with their traditional homes and loved ones by facilitating cultural exchanges(Karner, 2023). Drawing from my personal experience as a second-generation Chinese-Australian migrant who travels between Hong Kong and Sydney, I often receive parcels containing everyday products from family and friends, which serve as expressions of affection and maintain cultural ties.

HomeBound is a contemporary modular packaging project aimed at helping Hong Kong migrants in Australia reconnect with their cultural roots and loved ones worldwide. While the packaging embodies Hong Kong’s culture, the content inside expresses the affection of loved ones.

HomeBound’s modular packaging tiles are adaptable to the contents of the parcel, wrapping items tightly yet allowing them to breathe. This function, moreover, symbolises the dynamic nature of change faced by diasporic communities, celebrating their resilience. Each tile features four flaps designed to interlock, forming various shapes. Made from thick felt sheets, the tiles are flexible yet structurally sound. Simple instructions are showcased in a minute-long animation video, accessible through a QR code embedded in the overall packaging.

Belonging in between worlds.

By fostering a sense of belonging in a foreign land and preserving Hong Kong’s cultural tapestry, each tile is adorned with cross-hatching illustrations depicting the city’s everyday culture such as Yum Cha (Chinese restaurants where Dim Sum is typically enjoyed), Mahjong (traditional Chinese “board game”), Hong Kong’s micro-apartment buildings, street food and snacks, various form of transportation, etc.

The overall packaging of the product also features a booklet where all illustrations are introduced and explained to users, educating them about the lesser-known cultural facts of Hong Kong while shedding light on the city’s authenticity towards the general public.

Reusable Packaging.

The potential uses for these modular packaging tiles are endless. Once they are no longer needed for shipping, users can repurpose them into new objects such as lampshades, decorative displays, and cushion covers.

HomeBound aims to assist Hong Kong migrants in reconciling with their cultural roots and loved ones across the world. By transforming packaging into a medium for cultural expression, HomeBound helps preserve Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage while fostering a sense of belonging and community among the diaspora.