The results of the prestigious 2014 iF design awards are out, and, gratifyingly, there are a handful of Kiwi winners among them.

We’re big fans of the homegrown Blunt Umbrella, a super tough brolly devised by engineer Greig Briebner, and its golf umbrella picked up a nod in the iF product design category. If you’re new to the product (where have you been?) what sets it apart is the complete lack of sharp corners and the admirable ability to withstand the toughest of winds (they even come with a lifetime guarantee).

Over in the communication design sandpit, Alt Group racked up not one, not two, but three wins.

On the corporate print side, its bold design work for the New Zealand Opera triumphed.

In publishing, the gorgeous Engine Room Cookbook (Random House) similarly impressed the judges.

And finally, Alt also nabbed a win for its Social Kitchen concept in the exhibition/trade fair category, which has already accrued a number of other accolades. The Social Kitchen = the gift that keeps on giving.