Upcycled Echo
Upcycled Echo is a series of ceramic smart speakers made from discarded ceramic decals. In Jingdezhen, about 5 percent of ceramic decals are discarded each year. These reclaimed decals are cut, recombined and collaged onto durable porcelain shells, then fired with high precision to protect the surface. Integrated high-fidelity components provide balanced sound, and the speakers connect to smartphones for music playback and voice interaction. The design reduces industrial waste and links ceramic tradition with modern audio technology.
Upcycled Echo Ceramic Speaker by Chao Yang has been recognized as an innovative representation of industrial design by the A' Design Award & Competition. Upcycled Echo Ceramic Speaker was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in Homeware Design in 2026. The A' Decorative Items and Homeware Design Award is an international, juried, academic and meritocratic design accolade which honors exceptional design of tableware, lighting fixtures, cookware, decorative accessories, bathroom accessories, furniture, textiles, kitchen gadgets and more.
