RESEARCH ON THE DESIGN TRANSFORMATION MODEL FOR GLASS PRODUCTS INTEGRATING CHINESE CULTURAL HERITAGE ELEMENTS

China's cultural and creative industry is expanding. This paper aims to examine the design process by integrating cultural heritage elements into glass products and to achieve the translation of cultural symbolic signs at visual, behavioural, and meaningful levels. Through expert interviews and case studies, it was found that this model of gradual transformation, from visual elements (shape, colour, and decoration) to behaviours (ritualised behaviour embedding, reconstruction of daily behaviours, and performance behaviour simulation) and then to philosophical thought (philosophical thought transmission, moral and spiritual metaphor, and blessing and auspicious meaning); demonstrates a hierarchical integration strategy that aligns with both user perception and cultural authenticity. From the findings, it is clear that, in the combination of three levels of cultural elements in cultural heritage, each glass product has its focus: some focus on one level, some on two levels, and some can be passed on at all three levels. The reason is that every existing product has a specific value. However, designers aim to give products as much value and attributes as possible. The additional cultural value of the product can be enhanced through the transfer and integration of cultural elements from cultural heritage spatial analysis. This allows glassware not only to embody cultural heritage but also to communicate its deeper symbolic meaning, offering users a more comprehensive and meaningful experience. This model provides a reference for other cultural and creative sectors and offers innovative ideas to product designers. Future research could incorporate actual consumer feelings and feedback to further improve and refine this model.