Due to global warming our frozen lakes are becoming thinner, unpredictable and dangerous. We have already started noticing the effects of this. In recent years we have seen a steady increase in fatal ice accidents. An often-overlooked aspect within safety is our attitude towards protective gear. Through design and branding, this project explores a variety of solutions in response to the factual increase of ice- related drowning accidents in Sweden. VAK is a hypothetical brand for those who are prepared and ready to adapt to a changing environment, shaped and inspired by the raw and fickle nature of ice. Within VAK’s products several different safety aspects are touched upon, such as increased flotation, better grip and impact protection.

This study examines the ways in which the concept of &#039 / national design&#039 / informs evaluation of products and their designers, through the example of the field of industrial design in Turkey and the recently influential design magazine Art+Decor. For this purpose, first of all, &#039 / evaluation&#039 / is analyzed as a means in which meanings are imposed on products, and as a tool in struggles for positions and status within the field of industrial design. Then, the role of &#039 / nationality&#039 / in such a function of evaluation is investigated. Finally, a case study is provided, in which the employment of the concept of &#039 / Turkish design&#039 / in evaluation of products and designers is analyzed within the texts published in Art+Decor magazine between 2003 and 2005.