Outstanding In-House Design Team Finalists

Interior Design magazine has extended the submission deadline for its 2024 Best of Year Awards, inviting designers and manufacturers to showcase their top projects and products. This prestigious global design awards program acknowledges excellence across various categories in the architecture and design community. Submissions are now open until September 27th, providing an extended opportunity for participants to enter and gain recognition. The article encourages prompt submission to capitalize on this extended window. The Best of Year Awards are highly regarded within the industry for their ability to elevate brand visibility and transform professional practices. Past winners and honorees frequently share insights and testimonials emphasizing the significant impact of winning such an accolade. For instance, designers have revealed strategies to boost their chances of winning, often highlighting the importance of meticulous submission preparation and clear articulation of design intent. These insights often come from their direct experience of successfully navigating the submission process and standing out among a competitive pool of entries. Manufacturers also attest to the substantial benefits of a Best of Year win, particularly in terms of brand recognition and market positioning. Winning an award in categories like Contract Seating, for example, has been shown to dramatically shift the trajectories of businesses, leading to increased exposure and new opportunities. This recognition serves as a powerful endorsement of quality and innovation, distinguishing award-winning products and projects in a crowded marketplace. Several creative professionals have shared how receiving a Best of Year Award has profoundly transformed their practices. These testimonials often speak to the enhanced credibility, increased client interest, and overall growth experienced post-award. The awards not only celebrate design excellence but also act as a catalyst for future success, validating the hard work and creative vision of individuals and firms. The article underscores the value of these testimonials in demonstrating the tangible career and business advantages associated with the awards. In essence, the extended deadline for the 2024 Best of Year Awards presents a valuable opportunity for designers and manufacturers to achieve industry-wide recognition. The consistent feedback from past winners and honorees reinforces the awards' prestige and their capacity to significantly impact professional standing and brand visibility. The awards program continues to be a crucial platform for showcasing innovation and excellence within the architecture and design sector, with participants encouraged to submit their work to join the ranks of esteemed winners. #BestOfYearAwards #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #Architecture #GlobalDesign #DesignExcellence #BrandVisibility #ProfessionalGrowth

i29, an Amsterdam-based design office, focuses on interior and architecture projects, aiming to create spaces with strong, clear identities. Founded by Jaspar Jansen and Jeroen Dellensen, i29 works with a dedicated team of interior designers and architects on a diverse range of international projects. Their portfolio includes award-winning residential, hospitality, office, retail, and exhibition designs, with notable clients such as Booking.com, Bijenkorf Amsterdam, Amerborgh, Samsonite Europe, FRAME Magazine, and the National Ceramics Museum. The firm believes that the environment significantly influences human interaction, socialization, and daily life. Their approach involves distilling each assignment to its essence, striving to produce work that contributes to a better future. They see opportunities in both the renovation of monumental heritage, by integrating historical qualities into contemporary design, and in new construction, by focusing on future-proof solutions. This dual perspective informs their objective to create understandable, comfortable, and functional buildings that enrich daily life. i29 maintains a consistent interior design style by prioritizing clear communication with clients. They emphasize careful listening to initial requests and ideas to gather comprehensive information, which often leads to innovative and unexpected solutions. The firm asserts that every project requires unique solutions, rejecting standardized approaches in favor of personalized and specific designs. They aim to deliver progressive work characterized by its simplicity, creating clear, effective, and surprising physical experiences in an increasingly digital world. The diversity of their portfolio enables them to think creatively and inclusively for various clients and users. While their solutions are not standard, their working methods are standardized to ensure quality, efficiency, and creativity. The studio emphasizes continuous adaptation and close collaboration with clients and partners. Regarding influences, i29 acknowledges many admirable designers but strives to remain authentic to their own vision, avoiding excessive imitation. They are inspired by their everyday environment, including nature, literature, exhibitions, and films, drawing from the rich cultural resources of Amsterdam. Social media serves as a practical tool for marketing and sharing their projects, offering insights into their design philosophy, building processes, and inspirational concepts, while they consciously avoid being overly influenced by online trends. On sustainable design, i29 adopts a pragmatic approach, encouraging clients to opt for sustainable solutions whenever possible. Their goal is to maximize the impact of sustainable design, motivating broader adoption of eco-friendly materials, energy systems, and new developments for a better future. They have developed a system to categorize products and materials, raising client awareness about the sustainability, durability, and cost implications of their choices. This focus on awareness is a powerful driver for promoting sustainable design. i29 expresses aspirations to expand into architectural practice, combining their existing interior design expertise with a broader architectural vision to create places with strong identities. They anticipate upcoming large-scale projects, including hotels, spas, and sustainable homes, indicating their readiness for new challenges and collaborations with international partners. #InteriorDesign #ArchitectureProjects #AwardWinningDesigns #SustainableDesign #ClientCollaboration #DesignProcess #FutureProofDesign #DutchDesign

The "Design Awards 2013: best of the rest" article highlights a curated selection of innovative and influential designs across various categories, reflecting the top trends and notable reissues of the year. The first trend identified is the "puzzle-like" design, characterized by random patterns, asymmetric forms, and modern marquetry. This approach updates traditional inlay and overlay techniques by integrating diverse materials such as stone, wood, leather, acrylic, and ceramic, resulting in freestyle, decorative geometry. Examples include Patricia Urquiola's 'Azulej' tiles for Mutina, which blend ancient majolica with digital-print glazing to create mixed aesthetic patterns; Massimo Morozzi's 'Bois de Rose' cabinet for Edra, featuring random rosewood veneers and piano pedal-operated doors; and Urquiola's 'Fishbone' coffee table for Moroso, utilizing Alycrite to mimic natural materials in a herringbone pattern with a glossy finish. Additionally, Form Us With Love's 'Slab' vases for Cosentino/Silestone demonstrate the versatility of quartz compound beyond conventional surfaces, forming heavyweight, puzzle-like arrangements. The article also features significant reissues that have made a comeback. These include Ferdinand Kramer's 1951 'Calvert' coffee table, now produced by E15 in oak, walnut veneer, or colored lacquer, originally designed for flat-pack export. Giò Ponti's tableware, based on his 1951 sketches and manufactured by Sambonet, includes asymmetric 'Conca' flatware and a unique two-bowl centerpiece. Arne Jacobsen's 1939 'Mayor' sofa, conceived for Søllerød City Hall, is reissued by &Tradition; with a solid oak frame and Kvadrat upholstery. Le Corbusier's 'Projecteur 365' light, initially designed in 1954 and inspired by industrial lamps, is now produced by Nemo Cassina in various models. Further categories include "Best Reinvention," recognizing Muriel Grateau's revitalized gallery in Paris, showcasing her color-drenched ceramics, glassware, linen, jewelry, and new silverware and watch ranges in a newly whitewashed space. "Best Use of Material" highlights Chanel Fine Jewellery's 'Clair-obscur' ring, which ingeniously combines diamonds with industrial titanium, inspired by Gabrielle Chanel's original design philosophy and the celestial discovery of titanium. The "Best Plant Shop" award goes to Qusamura in Hiroshima, founded by Kohei Oda, which specializes in pairing unusual cacti with distinctive pottery, treating these botanical forms as sculptures for the home. Minotti's 2012 furniture collection is lauded as the "Best Collection," epitomizing a blend of innovation and continuity with detailed craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and mid-century and Scandinavian influences, featuring pieces like the 'Evans' table and 'Brice' coffee table, and adaptations for compact living spaces. "Best Future Vision" recognizes Cartier's 'ID Two' concept watch, a non-commercial prototype with a transparent ceramic case and vacuum-sealed interior, signaling future technological and aesthetic advancements in watchmaking. The "Best Finishing Touch" category covers beauty essentials, including Comme des Garçons' 'Amazingreen' Eau de Parfum, Chantecaille's 'High Definition Perfecting Powder', Matylda Krzykowski's 'Borste & Horne' brushes, and Shu Uemura Art of Hair's 'Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil'. Other notable mentions include the "Best Lab," the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of British Columbia by Saucier + Perrotte Architects and Hughes Condon Marler Architects, praised for its tree-inspired design and engaging spaces. "Best Comfort Food" highlights Jacob's Pickles in New York for its Southern soul food and East Coast pickle culture, and Häagen-Dazs' 'Ice Moons' designed by Doshi Levien. "Best Cover-up" showcases innovative outerwear from Herno, Sealup, CP Company, and Hancock, emphasizing technical fabrics and sharp silhouettes. "Best Bottom Drawer" features Nosigner's 'Cartesia' chest of drawers for MSY, a corner-fitting piece with trapezoid drawers opening in two directions. "Best Loo" recognizes Roca's 'In-Tank Meridian' toilet with a hidden cistern and CEA's 'Hydroplate' water jet cleaner. "Best Fixer-Upper" celebrates Jaime Hayón's redesign of Le Sergent Recruteur restaurant in Paris. "Best Bag" is awarded to Piquadro's 'Coleos' backpack for its extensive compartmentalization and thoughtful features. "Best Winter Retreat" goes to The Alpina Gstaad in Switzerland, a luxury hotel blending reclaimed timber and natural materials, with a Six Senses Spa and Japanese restaurant Megu. "Best Building Sites" features OMA's Shenzhen Stock Exchange in China, a symbol of economic power with a floating podium, and Paulo Mendes da Rocha and Metro Arquitetos' Cais das Artes in Brazil, an arts complex elevated above a plaza. Finally, "Best Getaway" highlights Casa Till in Chile by WMR Arquitectos, a remote, Spartan, yet stylish retreat with breathtaking sea views, constructed with local materials and labor. The article also mentions Trevor Paglen's 'The Last Pictures' project as "Best Mission," sending etched photographs into space to document human history for extraterrestrial audiences, and Daikanyama T-Site in Tokyo by Klein Dytham and Kenya Hara as "Best Bookshop," a vast complex designed to appeal to a broad demographic with an extensive collection of books, music, and a unique lounge bar. #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #Architecture #LuxuryGoods #Fashion #Beauty #Travel #FoodAndDrink

The Design for Impact Challenge, a collaborative event bringing together students from George Fox University's interior design program and Portland State University's architecture program, showcased real-world design experience. Held at BORA Architects' Portland office, the event partnered students with industry leaders and higher education design programs. The challenge required teams, each comprising interior design and architecture students, to design a new entry and classroom space for a high school in Southern California. Each team was also paired with an industry mentor, a practicing architect or designer, who provided guidance throughout the five-hour design process. The prompt specified that ideas from the student proposals would be incorporated into the high school's upcoming renovation, adding a significant layer of real-world impact to the exercise. Students engaged in an intensive five-hour session, sketching, modeling, and refining their concepts. The focus was on balancing aesthetic innovation with practical application, demonstrating the students' creativity and problem-solving skills. Following the design period, each team presented their proposals to a panel of professional jurors from the architecture and design industries. This provided students with valuable experience in communicating their design vision and receiving expert feedback. The winning team included George Fox interior design seniors Ava Heflen and Kali Braukmiller, mentored by Shawn from VIDA Design. Their design was lauded for its strong understanding of biophilic design, which integrated native and location-specific plants to promote wellness and environmental harmony within the classroom space. Furthermore, their proposal incorporated trauma-informed design principles. This involved providing choice and flexibility in furniture arrangements and seating, careful attention to classroom acoustics, and the implementation of open sightlines complemented by AI-powered security systems. These elements aimed to create safe and calming environments conducive to learning. The design was further enhanced by curved elements in finishes and furnishings, adding softness and approachability, culminating in a thoughtful and forward-thinking solution. Ava Heflen highlighted the memorable nature of the experience, particularly the opportunity to collaborate with architecture students, which provided valuable insight into real-world design scenarios. She also emphasized the crucial role of the industry mentor in offering helpful feedback and encouragement throughout the process. Heflen noted that the collaborative environment fostered refreshing interactions and sparked numerous creative ideas. The event also served as an inspiration, allowing her to witness the diverse and thoughtful designs developed by other participants in the challenge. Another team, featuring George Fox interior design students Sam Kinsman and Michaela Vega, and mentored by Melissa from Gensler Portland, received the 'Best Concept' award. This recognition acknowledged their visionary approach and compelling presentation. The Design for Impact Challenge provided students with a unique platform for inter-institutional collaboration, direct mentorship from industry professionals, and constructive feedback from respected jurors. For the George Fox students, this experience underscored the practical application of design thinking in real-world contexts and highlighted the transformative power of intentional, human-centered design in shaping future educational spaces. #InteriorDesign #DesignChallenge #GeorgeFoxUniversity #PortlandStateUniversity #BiophilicDesign #TraumaInformedDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #StudentCollaboration #RealWorldExperience

This article highlights 25 influential power duos comprising high-end clientele and their style gurus who collaborate to curate spectacular interiors, ranging from private homes and palaces to public monuments and retail spaces. These partnerships are notable for their impact on the design world, setting high standards for aesthetics and functionality. The article details various collaborations, showcasing the diverse styles and approaches employed by these design teams. One prominent duo features hip-hop superstar Kanye West and Belgian designer Axel Vervoordt. Vervoordt, known for his tasteful minimalism and admiration for the Japanese aesthetic concept of wabi (exalting simplicity), was enlisted by West to perfect his Los Angeles crib's look. Vervoordt's client list also includes Bill Gates, Sting, and Calvin Klein, underscoring his reputation in high-end design. Actress Gwyneth Paltrow partnered with Robin Standefer and Stephen Alesch of Roman and Williams for the Goop Lab in Brentwood, her first permanent store. Roman and Williams, named for their grandfathers, also opened the Guild, a showroom and café in Soho, indicating their expanding influence in the design and lifestyle sectors. Fashion mogul Tom Ford and William Sofield, an inseparable pair for 25 years, have redefined luxury retail spaces. Their collaborations on stores in Madison Avenue and Rodeo Drive are renowned for their opulent design, challenging conventional retail aesthetics. Sarah Jessica Parker initially sought decorating tips from movie executive Eric Hughes in the '90s. His design career officially launched in 2002 after Parker commissioned him to design her Bridgehampton home. Hughes is currently working with architect Morris Adjmi to merge Parker's two West Village townhouses, demonstrating a long-standing and evolving client-designer relationship. The Beckhams, Victoria and David, chose antiques dealer Rose Uniacke to decorate their $44 million Holland Park palace in London. Uniacke is celebrated for her ability to modernize historical settings, creating a unique blend of classic and contemporary design. Lauren Santo Domingo, co-founder of Moda Operandi, continued a family tradition by enlisting French designer Francois Catroux to work on her 18th-century Paris apartment. Catroux has a history with the Santo Domingo family, having worked with them since the early '90s. LVMH CEO Bernard Arnault consistently collaborates with architect Peter Marino, who has designed numerous Louis Vuitton stores, including the flagship on Place Vendôme, showcasing Marino's significant role in shaping the luxury brand's physical presence. Actor Brad Pitt engaged starchitect David Adjaye for sustainable housing projects in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina. Pitt's Make It Right Foundation, with Adjaye's involvement, constructed over 100 homes in the Lower 9th Ward, highlighting a commitment to socially conscious design. Adjaye later gained acclaim for his work on the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Raf Simons, during his tenure at Calvin Klein, relied on artist Sterling Ruby to infuse the brand's shows, headquarters, and flagship store with distinctive, vibrant energy. This partnership highlights the intersection of art and fashion in design. Collectors Edythe and Eli Broad have a long-standing relationship with Pritzker Prize winner Frank Gehry, commissioning him for their Brentwood manor and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. Their collaborations underscore their patronage of groundbreaking architecture. French luxury boss Francois-Henry Pinault entrusted Parisian designer Pierre Yovanovitch with his personal office and the Hôtel de Clermont-Tonnerre, the headquarters of his Artémis conglomerate. Yovanovitch is known for incorporating vintage touches into contemporary settings. Former Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Jill selected Victoria Hagan, known as the “queen of restrained elegance,” to design their official private residence. Hagan's clean, timeless interiors aligned with the Bidens' aesthetic preferences. Designer Robert Couturier, celebrated for French-inspired exuberance, is collaborating with artist Jeff Koons to combine two Upper East Side townhouses. This partnership merges Couturier's classic style with Koons's grand artistic vision. John Pawson and Ian Schrager have a two-decade-long friendship and professional collaboration, extending from apartments at the Gramercy Park Hotel to Schrager's penthouse at 40 Bond, and now the West Hollywood Edition hotel. Their work emphasizes minimalist yet luxurious design. Tory Burch first met designer Daniel Romualdez in the late '90s and subsequently hired him for her apartment at the Pierre, followed by numerous homes and over 100 stores, including her Long Island location, showcasing a long and fruitful design partnership. Fashion designer Alexander Wang and Ryan Korban are close friends who collaborate on various projects, including Wang's flagship store and private residences, highlighting a youthful and contemporary approach to design. Ken Fulk, known for his flamboyant designs, is the trusted designer for Silicon Valley's elite, including Instagram's Kevin Systrom. Fulk designed Systrom's home and his wedding, demonstrating his versatility in creating bespoke experiences. Jamie Drake, known for his crisp and colorful rooms, has designed multiple properties for Michael Bloomberg, including his Upper East Side townhouse and his Georgian estate in Southampton, and also restored Gracie Mansion during Bloomberg's mayoral term. Michael Smith decorated the private residence of the Obamas in the White House, earning praise from former First Lady Michelle Obama for upholding the building's history. Smith also designed their 8,200-square-foot Kalorama home after their departure from office. The bond between decorator Stephen Shadley and Oscar winner Diane Keaton spans over 30 years and four homes. Keaton even documented their creation of her 8,000-square-foot Brentwood compound in her book, "The House that Pinterest Built," illustrating a deep, enduring creative partnership. #DesignDuos #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalPartnerships #CelebrityDesign #HomeDecor #HighEndClientele #ResidentialDesign #CommercialDesign

Metropolis, a prominent design publication, has announced its 2024 Future100 Interior Design Graduate Winners, recognizing 17 outstanding graduate students from universities across the United States and Canada. These individuals were selected by the Metropolis team for their exceptional talent, innovative design concepts, strong technical knowledge, and forward-thinking approaches to interior design. The recognized students demonstrate a profound understanding of design principles, a commitment to research, and an ability to create impactful and sensitive spaces. The featured winners include Helia Amini from Marymount University, whose design concepts are noted for superb technical knowledge and a strong research foundation. Lari Bittman, also from Marymount University, is recognized for her remarkable combination of raw talent, technical ability, and perseverance, evident in projects ranging from a playful daycare to a meticulously designed multi-use refuge community center. Brooke Bower from The University of Texas at Austin is highlighted for her imagination as a visual artist and embodied understanding of space, developing a portfolio reflecting an inspiring point of view poised to positively impact the built environment. Christa E. Gorman from Kansas State University is praised for her intensely creative and iterative design process, focusing on producing thoughtful and complete solutions. Sanjana Gopalakrishnan from The New School, Parsons School of Design, possesses a rare sensitivity toward playful design while remaining committed to circular economies. Henry Hammes, also from Kansas State University, is recognized as a talented and motivated student who creates carefully choreographed solutions through deep research and concept development. Kile Hotchkiss from The New York School of Interior Design exemplifies great promise with meticulous research and an insightful approach, integrating architectural details and clever interpretations of history. Pavitra Jairaj from the University of Oregon demonstrates a clear connection to client and user experience, grounded in research, precedent, and empathy. Malik Lovette, also from the University of Oregon, combines a background as a college athlete and artist into his design work, showcasing strong graphic communication and natural collaboration. Madina Masimova from The New School, Parsons School of Design, brings a global perspective to interiors and technology, leading with optimism on the future of design within the context of AI, design, and belonging. Eva Neri from Florida State University is described as a bright, free-spirited, and talented designer who weaves diverse research interests, including ambient sound and music, into multilayered designs focused on physical and emotional well-being. Tasha Singh from Drexel University is commended for her skill, enthusiasm, and consideration for people and place, possessing noteworthy design talent in both digital and hand-drawing mediums. Nihitha Sreenath, also from Drexel University, has a deep set of talents for communicating ideas across various mediums, demonstrating strong material sensibility and sensitivity to human needs. Melida Valera from the New York School of Interior Design is passionate about the design industry, with a deep respect for how things work and a diligent approach to learning. Nicolle Villa from Boston Architectural College is an attentive, detail-oriented student with fantastic interpersonal skills and a great eye for design and materiality. Jessica Wilsey from The University of Texas at Austin is an outstanding graduate student whose work has been repeatedly awarded for its design excellence, bringing remarkable sensitivity to extensive design research and the study of human behavior. Finally, Mingming Zhao from the Savannah College of Art and Design has chosen interior design to create beautiful and functional living environments that positively impact individuals and communities, with a design philosophy rooted in cultural context and locality. #Future100 #InteriorDesign #GraduateWinners #DesignExcellence #StudentDesign #ArchitecturalEducation #MetropolisMagazine #DesignInnovation

This page serves as a comprehensive guide for architects, designers, and firms interested in submitting their work for consideration in Architectural Record's various annual awards and special features. It outlines the opportunities available throughout the year for showcasing contemporary architecture, residential projects, interior designs, and innovative products. The primary goal is to encourage submissions to several prestigious competitions and features that celebrate excellence and innovation in the field. The Architectural Record Awards are a key highlight, scheduled for inauguration in the fall. These awards aim to recognize the year’s best built and unbuilt projects, as well as leading design voices, with winners being celebrated at the annual Innovation Conference. This new award program will complement the magazine's long-standing tradition of highlighting architectural excellence in its print editions. Specific details for submission to these awards are provided through a dedicated link. Another significant feature is "Record Interiors," an annual issue that has for decades showcased outstanding contributions to building interiors. This competition invites architects and interior designers to submit projects that demonstrate clever solutions and innovative material choices, with a primary focus on interior scope. The page offers links to submission details and archives of past winners, providing aspiring entrants with examples of previously recognized work. "Design Vanguard" is presented as a program recognizing emerging firms and individual practitioners who represent the next generation of architects. Since 2000, this award has honored ten international winners each year, specifically targeting practices that have been established for ten years or less. This initiative aims to highlight fresh talent and innovative approaches within the architectural community, with application details and a list of past winners accessible on the page. "Record Houses," established in 1956, is an annual issue dedicated to residential design. It seeks projects that challenge expectations, push disciplinary boundaries, and creatively redefine established architectural vocabularies. The platform provides detailed submission guidelines and links to previous winners, offering insights into the types of residential projects that have historically been celebrated. The "Kitchen & Bath" competition focuses on novel approaches to these utilitarian spaces, encompassing both commercial and residential contexts, and even public infrastructure. This category encourages submissions that showcase innovation in design and functionality within kitchens and bathrooms. Information on entering this competition and viewing past winners is also made available. "Record Products of the Year" is a long-running competition that identifies the most innovative building materials, components, and furnishings introduced to the North American market within the past year. A panel of experts, including architects and designers, selects winning entries based on criteria such as inventiveness, functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. The awardees are featured in the December issue of RECORD, and the page provides entry details for the upcoming cycle and a list of previous product winners. The "Cocktail Napkin Sketch" contest, open to U.S.-based architects, students, and related professionals, celebrates the art of sketching. Entrants are required to submit a sketch on a white cocktail napkin using a pen. Two grand prize winners, one licensed architect and one related professional, receive a gift card and a set of custom cocktail napkins. Winning sketches are announced at the Innovation Conference and published in the November issue and on the website. This contest is sponsored by Construction Specialties. Finally, the "Guess the Architect" contest is a monthly challenge from the editors, inviting readers to identify the architect of a historically important building. The contest runs throughout the month, with a chance to win a $500 Visa gift card. This contest is sponsored by Pac-Clad Peterson. The page concludes by inviting general project submissions, providing links to submission guidelines and the editorial calendar for those who wish to have their work considered for publication outside of the specific contests. #ArchitecturalAwards #DesignCompetitions #EmergingArchitects #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #BuildingProducts #ArchitecturalSketching #InnovationConference #CallForEntries

Metropolis Magazine has announced its Future100 Interior Design Undergraduate Winners, recognizing the top interior design undergraduate students across the United States and Canada for 2025. This annual initiative highlights emerging talent in the field, showcasing students who demonstrate exceptional creativity, technical skill, and innovative thinking in interior design. The selection process involved nominations from program chairs and professors, who lauded their students' dedication, leadership potential, and unique design philosophies. The featured students come from various prestigious institutions, each bringing a distinct approach to interior design. Irina Alturmessova from Yorkville University is recognized for her strong academic performance, ethical conduct, and volunteer service. Chloe Bartek from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is noted for her motto, 'Think gardening, not architecture,' emphasizing sustainability, adaptability, and community-focused design. Betty Christianson from Colorado State University is celebrated for transforming spaces into immersive stories and her commitment to inclusivity, balancing aesthetics with practicality. Ewura Esi Eghan from Virginia Commonwealth University integrates her sculpture background into her designs, pushing boundaries to create magical and unexpected spaces. Lené Fourie from the University of Houston is described as a bright, hardworking, and eager-to-learn individual with significant leadership potential, consistently impressing her professors with her capacity as both a designer and a thinker. Olivia Grote from Columbia College Chicago stands out for her empathic approach, blending artistic vision with designs that support and engage, challenging the status quo. Louisa Gutenberger from the School of Visual Arts is on a mission to advocate for unheard communities, valuing cultural heritage, community, and context in her designs. Daria Hall from the University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, exemplifies hard work, exceptional talent, curiosity, and craftsmanship, demonstrating a determination to creatively solve problems in interior architecture. Elly Hallack, also from Columbia College Chicago, is praised for her unique blend of creativity, technical expertise, and commitment to innovative design, balancing imaginative ideas with practical solutions. Keeleigh Johnson from the University of Central Oklahoma combines creativity with practical design solutions, approaching projects thoughtfully and producing high-quality, refined work. Morgan Jourdin from the School of Visual Arts is noted for her extraordinary talent and commitment to innovating for the underserved, creating designs that foster positive behavioral change. Jin Liao from Pratt Institute is an exceptional student with a passion for design, consistently going beyond course requirements with her commitment to excellence. Emilie Luce from the University of Arkansas demonstrates a quiet confidence and determination to achieve excellence, actively seeking feedback to strengthen her work and taking on leadership roles. Anna Maris from Columbia College Chicago shows innate design sensibility and maturity, translating narratives into sophisticated and creative spaces. Tomis Phuong Nguyen from the University of Central Arkansas exhibits a bold aesthetic and strong sense of self, with work that surpasses his schooling. Kate O’Neil from the University of Tennessee, a Gensler Brinkmann Scholarship Recipient, is recognized for her dedication to addressing emerging societal needs through thoughtful design solutions and diverse global experiences. Isabela Rasmussen from The George Washington University displays an exceptional blend of creativity, technical skill, and understanding of design principles, marked by her curiosity and attention to detail. Kiera Rupp from the University of Tennessee integrates creativity with empathy, valuing feedback and collaboration. Monica Samaniego from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln challenges assumptions with her wonder-filled ideas, actively engaging in expanding her understanding of the profession. Juliana Sanchez Duran from Savannah College of Art and Design possesses a rare combination of natural talent and willingness to take creative risks, with a notable dedication to inclusive design. Elina Singh, also from Savannah College of Art and Design, combines technical excellence with creative vision, producing beautifully crafted and inspiring spaces through thoughtful execution. Sydney Slaughter from the University of Arkansas has a keen eye for aesthetics and a remarkable ability to absorb and apply new knowledge. Jesse-James Smith from Purdue University is committed to high-quality craftsmanship and dedicates long hours to design problems, driven by a quest for excellence. Ashley Sparks from The University of Texas exhibits a natural finesse in design development, seamlessly blending digital and analog techniques. Martina Terry from Virginia Tech showcases masterful use of color and impactful diagrams, creating a consistent narrative throughout her projects. Cecilia Torres-Panzera from the University of Tennessee stands out for her academic rigor and creative vision, merging technical skill with poetic narratives. Kiara Villa from The New School, Parsons School of Design, embodies an empathetic and forward-thinking design philosophy, fostering connections through cultural narratives and sustainable practices. Troa Vimahi from Rochester Institute of Technology immerses himself in design culture and current events, demonstrating capability in challenging subjects. Lufan Yang from California College of the Arts creates innovative solutions to complex design challenges with careful attention to detail. Jiuyu Zhou from the University of Oregon presents thoughtful, well-considered design solutions with a keen eye for detail. Finally, Zining Zhu from Colorado State University, an international student, integrates cultural philosophies and aesthetics into innovative design solutions, driven by self-motivation and high ethical standards. #Future100 #InteriorDesign #UndergraduateWinners #StudentShowcase #DesignExcellence #EmergingTalent #ArchitecturalDesign #CreativeThinking

The iF Design Awards, a globally recognized and independent design institution established in Germany in 1953, recently held its 2022 awards ceremony. The awards aim to identify, support, and promote good design, raise public awareness about design's role, help companies integrate design into their strategies, safeguard the role of professional designers, drive social change through design, and support young talent by providing a public platform. The 2022 gala, hosted at the Friedrichstadt-Palast in Berlin, gathered nearly 1500 guests from 36 countries, with 73 products and projects receiving the top iF Design Award 2022 Gold. A jury of 132 independent experts evaluated almost 11,000 entries from 57 countries across disciplines including Product, Communication, User Experience (UX), User Interface (UI), and Professional Concepts. Among the selected projects highlighted in the article, several innovative designs stand out. The CAKE Kalk AP, an electric off-road motorcycle, was designed for anti-poaching efforts, offering a silent alternative to gasoline bikes to increase the effectiveness of rangers. The NESTOUT outdoor battery series provides portable, waterproof, dust-proof, and shock-proof energy for outdoor activities, capable of charging devices, providing light and heat, and even solar power. Ray-Ban Stories are smart glasses that allow hands-free capture of moments, listening to audio, and making calls while maintaining a connection to the physical world. In the realm of home and personal technology, the Beosound Level from Bang & Olufsen is a durable, versatile speaker designed for longevity and various listening scenarios, with magnetic charging for ease of use. LG's OLED Objet Collection (65ART90) is a TV designed to blend into living spaces, featuring a natural wool fabric panel and a metal frame that can transform the home into an art gallery when the screen is not in full use. Samsung's The Freestyle is a compact smart projector that offers flexible projection onto any flat surface with auto-focus and auto-projection features. The Magic Leap 2 is an Augmented Reality headset for enterprise applications, offering a lightweight and comfortable design with an expanded field of view. Work and living spaces also saw innovative designs. The CS chair by ITOKI Corporation is a folding chair designed to make office layouts more flexible and create more casual zones, drawing inspiration from retail and hotel design. In terms of sustainability and everyday objects, Cuppamoka is a compact travel pour-over coffee maker, while the Karusuta Resin dishware series uses recycled PET plastic bottles to create ceramic-like, stackable, and dishwasher/microwave-safe dishes. The HUSSECHUCK fire extinguisher reimagines a safety device as an aesthetically pleasing and highly functional object with voice control and additional accessories. The LAVO – Hydrogen Energy Storage System is a pioneering integrated hybrid hydrogen battery that combines with rooftop solar panels to provide sustainable, off-grid energy for residential and commercial properties. Further innovations include Love Not War, a sustainable adult toy line made from recyclable aluminum with interchangeable heads, and YiBrick, a permeable brick made from over 90% recycled ceramic waste, suitable for pavements and as a heat-absorbent material. The Jiangang Mountain Natural Mineral Water bottle features a unique cone-shaped design inspired by mountain ranges, departing from traditional cylindrical forms. The Premium Olive Oil Dispenser by SOSO FACTORY is a compact, iconic product made from local Spanish ceramic materials, featuring an innovative twist-open stopper. Public art is represented by "Whale #2," a 3-dimensional undulating ocean environment projected onto a Times Square billboard. Hospitality designs include "loose kyoto," a café designed with minimal materials to foster conversation, and "JJJ House," a renovated 4-story home in Tainan, Taiwan, designed for a three-generation family with a cross-shaped opening and vertical skylight for brightness. The Hi Toilet is the world's first contactless, voice-activated public toilet designed for hygiene and universal accessibility, while Taisho University Building #8 uses architectural design to evoke a mountain training ground, reflecting the university's Buddhist identity and creating diverse learning spaces. The iF Design Trend Report, analyzing current design and social trends, is also highlighted as a resource for designers and product development teams. #iFDesignAwards #ProductDesign #SustainableDesign #InteriorDesign #SmartTechnology #UrbanPlanning #Architecture #Innovation #AwardWinners

The 2025 Westchester Home Design Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in home design across Westchester County, highlighting various categories such as Use of New Trend, Dining Room, Basement, Home Office, Children’s Bedroom, Small Space, Powder Room, Whole Home Design, Specialty Room, Closet and Organizational Space, Butler’s Pantry, Mudroom, Modern Kitchen, Outdoor Living Space, Modern Bath, Living Space, Traditional Bath, Use of Pattern, Entry Hall, Primary Bedroom, Traditional Kitchen, and Use of Color. Katherine Gold Design was recognized for the "Use of New Trend" with a primary bedroom featuring wood drenching, incorporating fluted walnut paneled ceilings to create a warm, deep, and timeless aesthetic, blending vintage and contemporary elements. FIELDHOUSE, led by Megan Albert, won in the "Dining Room" category for a design that integrated natural surroundings through subtle, timeless mural wallpaper and functional furniture for a young family. Indigo Z Home, under Mary Brendler, won for "Basement" design, transforming a space into a sophisticated wine cellar and cigar lounge with climate-controlled cabinets, iron accents, and a rich chocolate brown palette complemented by luxurious seating. Curated Nest, with Erin Coren and Lina Galvão, received awards for their "Home Office" and "Children’s Bedroom" designs. The home office, described as farmhouse chic, offers privacy with custom arched French doors, blending traditional and modern elements, and providing multifunctional seating in neutral tones. The children’s bedroom features a cozy twin bed with custom drapery, integrated storage, and a desk that doubles as a vanity, all in a seafoam green palette with warm rattan and caning accents. Rachel Gray Interiors was honored in the "Small Space" category for converting an unfinished attic into a vibrant, versatile bonus room for guests and teens, using a blue and white palette with yellow accents and functional storage benches. Malka Helft of Think Chic Interiors designed a "Powder Room" with rich, layered details, dark saturated colors, a Phillip Jeffries wallpaper, and a custom quartzite sink. Lulu Home, by Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino, earned recognition for "Whole Home Design" and "Entry Hall" projects. Their whole home design in Rye showcased a modern luxury new build with seamless architectural precision, custom woodwork, specialty marbles, and custom furnishings. The entry hall design included a custom rug from India, a smoky glass chandelier, and an oak wood statement wall. Lynn Biase of Lynn Biase Design transformed a sunroom into a year-round retreat, winning in the "Specialty Room" category. The design incorporated new flooring, a refaced fireplace, a custom bar, and wine storage, using earthy colors and deep green velvet sofas. For "Closet and Organizational Space," Ruth Riemer of Riemer Kitchens & Fine Cabinetry and Jacqueline Touby of Jacqueline Touby Designs created a seamless entertaining bar with Tambora Manaslu doors and integrated lighting, while Susan Murray of California Closets designed a 100-square-foot high-functioning closet with leather countertops, high-gloss finishes, and bronze glass display doors. Rachel Gray Interiors also won for "Butler’s Pantry," designing a space that bridges the kitchen and dining room with a blue quartzite slab, navy cabinets, and hammered unlacquered brass hardware. JWH Design & Cabinetry's Jennifer Howard and Manor + Woods' Kerry Jacobs received an award for "Mudroom" design, creating an efficient space with custom cabinetry and ample storage. The "Modern Kitchen" award went to Veronica Campbell of DEANE, Inc. and Alana Irwin and Cami Luppino of Lulu Home for transforming a dark kitchen into a bright, open space with bleached white oak floors, mixed door styles, and a custom stainless-steel hood. Scott Hirshson of Hirshson Architecture + Design was recognized for "Outdoor Living Space" with a resort-style design featuring a sleek pool, a covered area with a gas fire pit, and an outdoor kitchen. Mary Brendler of Indigo Z Home also won for "Modern Bath," creating a spa-like retreat with concrete elements, fluted dolomite tile, blue marble, and custom white oak accents. Justine Wolman of Justine Wolman Interiors designed a "Living Space" that is warm and refined, featuring a custom built-in bar, an olive mohair sofa, and a mix of textures and tones. Alisberg Parker's Susan Alisberg and Ed Parker received an award for "Traditional Bath," converting a cramped bathroom into a serene space with a palette of light colors, Azul Celest marble flooring, and custom white oak cabinets. Katherine Gold Design also won for "Use of Pattern" with a dining room transformed by Farrow & Ball's Lotus wall covering, a geometric wool rug, and a striking Cynara chandelier. Leon Berry of Leon Berry Interiors designed a "Primary Bedroom" as a tranquil retreat with layered neutrals, clean lines, and subtle organic textures. Lastly, Scott Hirshson won for "Traditional Kitchen" with a design featuring painted and walnut cabinetry, brass hardware, and marble countertops, while OE Innis of Innis Interiors won for "Use of Color" with a transitional space using soft peach tones, grasscloth wallpaper, and contrasting blue printed wallpaper in the adjacent bedroom. #HomeDesignAwards #InteriorDesign #WestchesterCounty #LuxuryHomes #ResidentialDesign #KitchenDesign #BathroomDesign #OutdoorLiving #SpacePlanning

The Homes & Gardens Design Awards recognize exceptional product designs that introduce character and sophistication to interior schemes. These annual awards highlight items, from prominent statement pieces to subtle accents, that are both contemporary and enduring in their appeal. This year's awards encompass a wide array of categories, celebrating innovation, craftsmanship, and sustainability across various home furnishings and decor. In the rug categories, 'Lithic' by A RUM FELLOW was honored as the Best Rug Collection. Inspired by British landforms, this collection features designs that mimic weathered stone, evoking the wild landscape through ethically handcrafted rugs made from Tibetan wool, New Zealand wool, cactus fiber, and silk. These rugs are STEP and GoodWeave-certified, emphasizing their ethical production. The Best Rug Design award went to 'Acres' by Pelican House x Lucy Williams Home, a flatweave, handwoven from 100% New Zealand wool, reflecting the English countryside's pastoral beauty. For outdoor and sustainable rugs, 'Aster' by Weaver Green was recognized for transforming 100% recycled plastic bottles into wool-like fibers, creating ultra-durable yet authentic-looking kilims. The Best Runner Design was awarded to 'Skye' by Bombay Sprout x Laura Stephens, crafted by fourth-generation weavers in India from hand-harvested jute, a biodegradable and recyclable material. For flooring, 'Chicopee' by Unnatural Flooring won for its herringbone weave, combining sisal's rustic charm with synthetic yarn's practicality, making it water-resistant, UV-stable, and suitable for indoor or outdoor use. Furniture awards included 'Bill's carver' by Studio HÁM for Best Chair, inspired by early English antiques and made from oak with a woven seagrass seat. 'Lomada' by Isabel & Co received Best Desk for its custom-made design from solid oak, upholstered in various fabrics. The Best Sofa award was given to 'Dajo' by Porta Romana, noted for its retro aesthetics, modern craftsmanship, deep seat, elegant curves, and polished beech plinth. 'The Nautilus' by Astrid Houssin Interiors won Best Stool, offering decorative versatility with bespoke RAL colors and hand-painted finishes. 'The Bedroom collection' by Sims Hilditch x George Smith secured Best Furniture Collaboration, drawing inspiration from the Cotswolds' rolling hills. NiX by Nicola Harding's 'Shipshape chest of drawers in Sage Green' was recognized for Best Storage, featuring FSC-certified solid oak, a bold painted finish, and distinctive vertical handles. 'The Artesian' by Collection Seven won Best Bed for its customisable design, featuring poplar burl veneer posts and a luxurious upholstered base and headboard. 'Tides' by Brogan Cox x NAT MAKS was celebrated for Best Use of Colour for a Product, with marbled ink designs inspired by coastal life. Lighting categories saw several winners: 'Campanilla pendant light' by Birdie Fortescue for Best Affordable Design, offering handcrafted quality and timeless elegance. 'Insulator AB pendant' by Novocastrian won Best Fixed Ceiling Light, inspired by train journeys and made from machined brass and pressed glass. 'Thelma lantern' by Jamb received Best Pendant Light, blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. 'Bloomsbury' by Max Rollitt was named Best Table Light, honoring the Bloomsbury Group's artistic legacy with hand-turned and painted designs. 'Copper Coast rechargeable accent light' by Visual Comfort & Co x Waterford earned Best Portable Light, combining crystal craftsmanship with lighting expertise. 'Simone' by Hector Finch won Best Wall Light, drawing design cues from the Vienna Secession movement. Other notable winners include 'Bedding in Eva Belle by Liberty' by Coco & Wolf for Best Bed Linen, featuring a traditional ditsy floral print. 'Galia' by Porta Romana was awarded Best Mirror for its organic ceramic shape and customisable glazes. 'Anemone candle' by Grove England received Best Home Fragrance, combining chamomile, jasmine, and neroli with warming notes. Natasha Hulse's 'Bespoke design' won Best Headboard for its intricate, hand-painted, and embroidered artistic creations. 'The Palaces Collection' by The Soho Lighting Company x Historic Royal Palaces was recognized for Best Accessories Collaboration, drawing on historical patterns and crafted from solid brass. Rowen & Wren won Best Product Made in the UK for its commitment to British craftsmanship and sustainability. For outdoor accessories, 'Lampshade parasol in Double Cream' by Plia Parasols won for its fade-proof fabric and bullion fringe. 'Chatterley' by Francis Sultana for David Gill Gallery received Best Outdoor Collection for its sculptural, patinated bronze pieces inspired by the British landscape. Finally, 'Diamond Majesty mattress topper' by Vispring won Best Sustainable Design for its use of nature's finest materials and commitment to environmental responsibility. #HomesAndGardens #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #ProductDesign #HomeDecor #SustainableDesign #Craftsmanship #LuxuryFurnishings #LightingDesign

The 34th annual Hall of Fame awards, hosted by Interior Design magazine, convened on November 29 at the I.M. Pei-designed River Pavilion at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York. Editor in chief Cindy Allen initiated the event with a superhero-themed address, emphasizing the importance of relevancy for designers and honoring the 2018 inductees as 'Super Originals' whose work significantly contributes to making the world a better place. Publisher Carol Cisco then acknowledged the event's sponsors and expressed gratitude for the design community's contributions and the industry's unique opportunities. This year's Hall of Fame recognized five individuals for their profound impact across various design sectors, including workplace, hospitality, retail, and residential design. Their leadership and innovative approaches are expected to leave a lasting legacy on the industry. The 2018 inductees included Lisa Iwamoto and Craig Scott of IwamotoScott, Kengo Kuma, Patrick Tighe, and Marcel Wanders. Each inductee shared personal insights and perspectives on their design philosophies and careers. Patrick Tighe, an architect, spoke about design's power to uplift and illuminate in challenging times, asserting that designers can be a beacon of good. Lisa Iwamoto and Craig Scott, a design duo who have collaborated for 16 years, shared a heartfelt message of mutual appreciation. Iwamoto described herself as the 'heart' of their firm, while Scott was the 'soul,' highlighting their complementary creative partnership. Marcel Wanders expressed gratitude and humility, recalling his childhood inclination to transform everyday objects into new creations. He views his current large-scale design work as a continuation of this intrinsic pursuit, describing it as a significant opportunity and responsibility. Kengo Kuma, in his address, thanked his muse—materials. He elaborated on his continuous effort to introduce a new softness into his projects through material exploration, appreciating the extensive freedom available today to delve into material possibilities. Approximately 1,200 designers, architects, and industry professionals attended the black-tie event held within Pei's iconic glass superstructure. Notably, seven students and a faculty member from Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences Interior Design Program were present, their attendance sponsored by design luminaries Richard and Catherine Frinier. These students were selected through a rigorous academic process, recognizing their deep knowledge of the event's 35-year history and their genuine passion for the design profession. The entrance to the event was a collaborative design by architecture firm Tsao & McKown, in partnership with Sunbrella and Sunbrella Contract. Maintaining the structural concept from the previous year, which featured strategically draped Sunbrella performance fabric strips and cords suspended from the ceiling to manipulate viewer perception and direct focus towards the banquet area, the 2018 design introduced a new color scheme. This year's palette transitioned from muted tones to a gradient of warm browns, fiery reds, and creamy whites. Following the event, all the fabric used for the installation was slated for donation to Materials for the Arts, a non-profit organization. The evening concluded with Cindy Allen reiterating her admiration for all attendees, acknowledging them as heroes within the dynamic and inspiring design industry, marking another successful Hall of Fame celebration. #InteriorDesign #HallOfFame #DesignAwards #Architecture #DesignCommunity #KengoKuma #MarcelWanders #PatrickTighe #IwamotoScott

The article highlights Urbanology Designs' award-winning living room, recognized in the Design 9 Awards for its luxurious and functional design. The design philosophy centers on merging sculptural artistry with functionality to create a space that is both refined and inviting, tailored for everyday living. The core inspiration was to ensure the room felt sophisticated yet welcoming, providing an elevated setting for a family home. A central feature of the design is a custom fireplace, which has been finished in limestone plaster and features gently rounded edges. This fireplace serves as an anchor for the space, with its organic curves intentionally softening the home's more rigid architectural lines. This detail introduces a sense of warmth and elegance, contributing significantly to the overall aesthetic and comfort of the living room. The designers emphasized that every element in the living room, considered the heart of the home, was selected with meticulous care and intention. This approach ensured that each furnishing and design choice contributed to the room's overarching theme of elevated living. Key pieces of furniture, such as a custom tête-à-tête and a curved sofa, were specifically chosen to encourage conversation and enhance the welcoming atmosphere of the space. These selections reflect the homeowner's appreciation for bespoke craftsmanship, contributing to a sense of uniqueness and personalization within the design. The overall design aims to create a harmonious balance between artistic expression and practical livability. The living room is envisioned not only as a visually impressive showpiece but also as a comfortable and functional gathering place where elegance, comfort, and connection seamlessly intertwine. Details of the project include a single-family home type, with David Goettsche of Desco Homes as the builder and Urbanology Designs responsible for the interior design. Resources for the project feature a Yale Large Sconce from Arteriors, custom window treatments from Day Design, cement side tables from Noir, and a Mya side table from Nuevo. This combination of bespoke elements and carefully selected pieces underscores the project's commitment to creating a luxurious and livable environment. #DesignAwards #LuxuryLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CustomDesign #LivingRoomDesign #UrbanologyDesigns #DallasInteriors #SculpturalArtistry

The article showcases the Rising Talent awards at Maison&Objet, a Paris-based trade fair celebrating its 25th year, which took place from September 8-12 at the Parc des Expositions Paris Nord Villepinte. This year's program specifically highlights Dutch design, a field that has historically captured the interest of the industrial design community since the 1990s, with pioneering figures such as Hella Jongerius and Marcel Wanders. The current design landscape, however, is being enriched by a new generation of designers who have been recognized as Rising Talent. A distinguished jury comprising globally renowned female designers, including Kiki Van Eijk, Weiki Somers, Ineke Hans, and Hella Jongerius, selected four individual talents and two design duos for this prestigious accolade. Chantal Hamaide, founder of Intermuros magazine, also played a role in the selection process. While Dutch design traditionally signifies experimental and conceptual approaches, its scope has broadened to encompass an international cohort of students and designers educated or residing in the Netherlands, indicating that "Dutch design is also a state of mind." This new wave of Dutch designers is distinguished by their emphasis on sustainability, frequently incorporating reused waste materials into their creations, and fostering collaborative practices. The article introduces six of these Rising Talents: Atelier Fig, Studio Hanna Kooistra, Théophile Blandet, Studio Yoon Seok-Hyeon, Visser & Meijwaard, and Simone Post, along with Sanne Terweij who received the award for Craft. Atelier Fig, composed of Ruben Hoogvliet and Gijs Wouters, presents the "Gravity" ceramics collection, featuring bowls and candleholders. Their innovative technique involves building objects with liquid clay over a foam armature, which then disappears during firing, resulting in extremely thin, fragile porcelain forms that symbolize impermanence. Studio Hanna Kooistra draws inspiration from traditional Dutch objects and furniture. Her reimagining of the "knopstoel" chair as a foldable, wall-mountable piece exemplifies a nomadic approach to classic styles. Théophile Blandet primarily works with recyclable aluminum and plastic offcuts from local factories, creating pieces that blur the lines between functional furnishings and sculpture, such as his "Fountain of Money," often incorporating socio-economic commentary. Studio Yoon Seok-Hyeon, originally from Cheongiu and a graduate of Design Academy Eindhoven, focuses on environmental impact. His "Relaxing Configuration" project repurposes rug-making knotting skills to create repositionable sofa forms, while his "Ott" project explores tree resin as an alternative, recyclable glazing agent for pottery. Visser & Meijwaard, an Arnhem-based duo, known for their bold hues and clean lines, received praise from juror Ineke Hans for their mastery of product design, exemplified by their LYN cabinet for Pulpo and a kaleidoscopic rug for Moooi. Simone Post, from Utrecht and based in Rotterdam, specializes in textiles, creating rugs from recycled wax-printed cotton leftovers for Label/Breed and flooring from repurposed sport shoes for Adidas, with her design process centered on material exploration and playful experimentation. Sanne Terweij, awarded for Craft, transforms photos of aged doors into wall sculptures using hundreds of colorful metal chips, fascinated by how color influences mood. These designers collectively demonstrate the evolving, innovative, and environmentally conscious direction of contemporary Dutch design. #MaisonObjet #DutchDesign #RisingTalentAwards #SustainableDesign #Ceramics #FurnitureDesign #TextileDesign #ProductDesign #ArtisanCrafts

The process of transforming a house into a bespoke home requires a unique vision and exceptional skill, and finding the right professional to actualize that vision can be a challenging endeavor. This guide addresses this challenge by providing a curated overview of premier platforms designed to connect clients with leading luxury interior design firms. The objective is to simplify the search for a design partner by exploring vetted directories, exclusive networks, and innovative consultation services. The Haute Design Network is presented as a definitive resource, operating as a meticulously vetted ecosystem of distinguished luxury interior design firms, architects, and builders. The platform employs a rigorous curation process, ensuring that only top-tier professionals known for excellence and innovation are listed. Backed by the prestige of Haute Living, the network provides a high level of trust and credibility, streamlining the selection process for affluent homeowners and real estate developers. Its features include advanced search functionality allowing filtration by location and design specialty, comprehensive professional profiles with portfolios and design philosophies, and an integrated network of experts encompassing designers, architects, and builders. The platform also fosters a community through exclusive networking events. Practical advice for effective use includes defining project scope, aesthetic, and budget before searching, and utilizing detailed portfolios to assess alignment. Architectural Digest’s AD PRO Directory is identified as a premier resource for elite design talent, leveraging the respected name in luxury living. This platform is an editorially vetted and curated list of top interior designers, architects, builders, and landscape professionals, connecting homeowners with established and high-profile luxury interior design firms. Its strength lies in exclusivity and a rigorous vetting process by the Architectural Digest editorial team, including many AD100 firms. Users can filter professionals by location, specialization, and profession, with each profile offering a detailed portfolio and biography. Tips for optimal use involve leveraging specialization filters, studying extensive portfolios, and preparing for direct inquiries regarding project scope and fees. The Expert offers a consultation-based model, providing access to renowned interior designers, including AD100 professionals, through one-on-one video sessions. This platform bridges the gap between admiring a designer's work and receiving personalized advice for specific challenges such as furniture layout or paint color selection. It serves homeowners who need expert direction without a full-scale design overhaul. The platform’s interface allows exploration of designer profiles, portfolios, reviews, and consultation rates, facilitating a simple booking process for Zoom calls. Users are advised to prepare a focused agenda with questions and visual aids, use the service for targeted problems, and explore its curated marketplace for furnishings. 1stDibs, known for its marketplace of vintage and high-end furnishings, also provides a design firm directory. This platform integrates the search for design talent with the discovery of unique pieces, allowing users to explore a designer’s portfolio and browse their curated collections of items available on the site. It features a global roster of talent with high-quality project imagery and detailed profiles. Practical tips include exploring designer storefronts to understand sourcing capabilities and style preferences, using broad geographic filters, and cross-referencing with the main marketplace to find designers whose aesthetic aligns with desired items. The ASID Design Finder by the American Society of Interior Designers emphasizes credentials and professional ethics. As the official directory of the largest professional organization for interior designers, it connects users with credentialed firms and individuals adhering to a strict code of conduct. Its primary distinction is the focus on verified expertise, with many listed members holding NCIDQ certification. Users can search by location, design specialty, and project type, with profiles displaying qualifications and certifications. Advice for use includes prioritizing credentials like ASID and NCIDQ badges, utilizing the “Design Specialty” filter, and reviewing both firm and individual profiles. Luxe Interiors + Design’s Design Resources Directory focuses on regional artistry and high-end aesthetics, stemming from the luxury lifestyle publication. This directory connects clients with regionally acclaimed architects, interior designers, and home builders frequently featured in the magazine. Its strength lies in highlighting top-tier professionals with deep knowledge of regional architecture, climates, and lifestyle nuances. Users can browse by major regions and filter by categories, with firm profiles offering direct links to work, biographies, and contact details. Tips include starting with the user's region, exploring editorial features for additional vetting, and utilizing the directory to assemble a full project team. Houzz, a broad, consumer-facing platform for home remodeling and design, also serves as a powerful tool for finding luxury interior design firms when used strategically. It features an extensive directory of professionals, millions of project photos, and integrated messaging tools. While an open marketplace, its robust filtering system and visual portfolios enable users to identify high-end providers. Practical tips include filtering by project cost to target higher-end budgets, scrutinizing reviews and portfolios for quality and consistency, and using "Ideabooks" to connect with designers whose work resonates. The article concludes by emphasizing that the choice of the right design partner is crucial. The platforms reviewed offer diverse pathways to connecting with elite luxury interior design firms. The final decision should be guided by specific project goals, personal aesthetic, and preferred engagement method. Factors to consider include project scope, vetting and curation preferences, and design philosophy alignment. These tools aim to demystify the selection process, transforming it into an exploration of possibilities for creating a perfectly designed home. #LuxuryInteriorDesign #DesignFirms #HomeDesign #InteriorDesigners #DesignPlatforms #HauteDesignNetwork #ArchitecturalDigest #TheExpert #1stDibs #ASIDDesignFinder #LuxeInteriorsDesign #Houzz

This article compiles a selection of notable design achievements and trends from the 2013 Design Awards, showcasing innovation across various categories from interiors and architecture to fashion and technology. The presented works highlight a period of design marked by updated traditional techniques, reissues of classic pieces, and forward-thinking concepts. In the 'Best Trend' category, a focus on "puzzle-like" designs emerged, featuring random patterns and asymmetric forms that updated traditional inlaying and overlaying. Materials like stone, wood, leather, acrylic, and ceramic were combined in unexpected ways to create decorative geometry. Examples include Patricia Urquiola's 'Azulej' tiles for Mutina, which blend ancient majolica with modern digital printing to allow for complex patterns. Massimo Morozzi's 'Bois de Rose' cabinet for Edra reimagined woodworking traditions with random rosewood veneers and innovative piano pedal openings instead of handles. Urquiola's 'Fishbone' coffee table for Moroso utilized Alycrite to mimic natural materials in a herringbone pattern, while Form Us With Love's 'Slab' vases for Cosentino/Silestone demonstrated the versatility of quartz compound beyond conventional surfaces, forming sculptural pieces through interlocking rings. The 'Best Reissues' section celebrates the successful reintroduction of classic designs. The 1951 'Calvert' coffee table by Bauhaus architect Ferdinand Kramer was re-released by E15, maintaining its original flat-pack design. Sambonet produced stainless-steel tableware based on unmanufactured 1951 sketches by Giò Ponti, including asymmetric flatware and a unique two-bowl centrepiece. Arne Jacobsen's 1939 'Mayor' sofa, initially designed for Søllerød City Hall, was reissued by &Tradition; featuring a solid oak frame and Kvadrat upholstery. Le Corbusier's 1954 'Projecteur 365' industrial lamp was updated by Nemo Cassina, offering wall, floor, and ceiling models with modern elements developed in collaboration with the Le Corbusier Foundation. Muriel Grateau was recognized for 'Best Reinvention,' transforming her Parisian gallery into a pristine white space that highlighted her bold ceramic, glassware, and linen collections. Starting as a fashion designer, her work across homeware and jewelry, often in collaboration with figures like Peter Marino and India Mahdavi, continues to define Parisian elegance. Chanel Fine Jewellery's 'Clair-obscur' ring received an award for 'Best Use of Material,' for its innovative juxtaposition of diamonds with blackened titanium, an industrial material often used in aerospace. This reinterpretation of Gabrielle Chanel's 1932 high-jewelry collection played on celestial themes, echoing the discovery of titanium in meteorites. Qusamura in Hiroshima was named 'Best Plant Shop' for its unique approach to botanical sculpture, pairing unusual cacti sourced from across Japan with distinctive pottery. Kohei Oda's vision transforms these plants into sculptural art for the home, emphasizing their unique character. Minotti's 2012 collection was lauded as 'Best Collection' for its blend of innovation and continuity, showcasing traditional workmanship, sumptuous materials, and a contemporary aesthetic with subtle nods to mid-century and Scandinavian styles. The collection introduced more color and pieces adapted for compact living, such as the 'York Lounge' armchair and 'Sherman 93' sofa. Cartier's 'ID Two' concept watch was celebrated for 'Best Future Vision.' This unique, not-for-sale timepiece featured a transparent case made from a single block of new-generation ceramic, vacuum-sealed to enhance reliability. It represents Cartier's commitment to pushing technological and aesthetic boundaries, with its innovations expected to influence future watch designs. The 'Best Finishing Touch' category recognized beauty essentials: Comme des Garçons' 'Amazingreen Eau de Parfum' for its green and spicy scent, Chantecaille's 'High Definition Perfecting Powder' for creating a flawless complexion, Matylda Krzykowski's 'Borste & Horne' brushes and pans for their contemporary design, and Shu Uemura Art of Hair's 'Essence Absolue Nourishing Protective Oil' for hair care. The Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of British Columbia by Saucier + Perrotte Architects and Hughes Condon Marler Architects won 'Best Lab.' Its design, inspired by a cubist tree, features a façade of variegated glass boxes and a central atrium, creating a striking and functional space that connects with its natural surroundings. 'Best Comfort Food' was awarded to Jacob's Pickles in New York for its blend of Southern soul food and East Coast pickle culture, and Häagen-Dazs' limited-edition 'Ice Moons' created in collaboration with London designers Doshi Levien, which featured moon-shaped, layered ice cream bombes. The 'Best Cover-up' category highlighted power outerwear brands: Herno, Sealup, CP Company, and Hancock, all recognized for their technical innovation, sharp silhouettes, and quality materials. 'Cartesia' by Nosigner for MSY, a chest of drawers named after René Descartes, was recognized as 'Best Bottom Drawer' for its effortless mechanics, graphic design, and two-directional opening. The 'Best Groom' products included Baxter of California's cut-throat razor, Ursa Major's 'Stellar Shave Cream,' Blind Barber's '90 Proof Pomade,' and Yang Ripol's innovative shaving brush with a magnetised stand. Piaget's 'Altiplano' hard-stone dial watches received 'Best Test of Time,' celebrating the revival of its 1960s and 1970s psychedelic-luxe designs. These timepieces, featuring gem-hued dials, were praised for their blend of fine jewelry and innovative engineering. The Franklin D Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park in New York City, designed by Louis Kahn, was named 'Best Day Out.' This park, completed decades after Kahn's death, offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and serves as a tribute to Roosevelt's vision. Trevor Paglen's 'The Last Pictures' project earned 'Best Mission,' an ambitious artistic endeavor involving 100 photographs etched onto a silicon wafer and attached to a satellite, intended as a message to extraterrestrial life. Daikanyama T-Site in Tokyo by Klein Dytham and Kenya Hara was celebrated as 'Best Bookshop,' a multi-pavilion complex designed to appeal to an older demographic but attracting a broad audience with its extensive collection and unique lounge bar. Bulthaup's 'B3' drawer fitting system won 'Best Storage' for its customizable inserts and organizational features within kitchen drawers. Roca's 'In-Tank Meridian Toilet' and CEA's 'Hydroplate' were jointly awarded 'Best Loo' for their innovative, space-saving, and hygienic designs. Le Sergent Recruteur in Paris, redesigned by Jaime Hayón, received 'Best Fixer-Upper' for its transformation into a modern European rural restaurant. Piquadro's 'Coleos' backpack was named 'Best Bag' for its advanced compartmentalization and expandable design, catering to the needs of the urban individual. The Alpina Gstaad in Switzerland was recognized as 'Best Winter Retreat' for its luxurious blend of traditional and contemporary design, including its Six Senses Spa and Japanese restaurant. Finally, the Shenzhen Stock Exchange by OMA and Cais Das Artes in Brazil by Paulo Mendes da Rocha and Metro Arquitetos were highlighted as 'Best Building Sites' for their architectural audacity and cultural significance. Casa Till in Chile by WMR Arquitectos received 'Best Getaway' for its remote location, minimalist design, and breathtaking sea views. #DesignAwards #InteriorDesign #Architecture #ProductDesign #Fashion #Technology #Watches #Jewellery #UrbanPlanning #Travel #FoodDesign

The 2022 Design Awards recognized two projects as tied winners in the Best Mudroom or Laundry Room category. These projects, designed by Nathan Taylor of Obelisk Home and Haden Long of Ellecor Design, focused on creating highly functional spaces that seamlessly blend contemporary aesthetics with classic styles. Both designers aimed to elevate these typically utilitarian areas into integral parts of their respective homes, emphasizing both design impact and usability. Nathan Taylor's winning project, for a new construction family home, involved an L-shaped laundry room that also served as a high-traffic thoroughfare from the garage to the kitchen. The homeowner's primary request was for the space to feel like "just another room in my house," necessitating a design that mirrored the home's overall "contemporary meets traditional" style. Taylor achieved this by using custom-finished white oak cabinets in the same color as the adjacent kitchen cabinetry, ensuring continuity. High-end elements such as quartz countertops, brushed gold hardware, and custom-printed marble floor tiles were incorporated to add a luxurious touch. The backsplash featured a beveled black subway tile in a herringbone pattern, offering a modern twist on a traditional material. Instead of traditional can lights, a lighted rod was installed over the countertop, providing both illumination and additional hanging space. The room also included a built-in desk for productivity and custom lockers and cubbies for each family member, complete with shelves, drawers, hanging space, and individual outlets for charging electronics. Haden Long's winning design for Ellecor Design focused on a from-scratch laundry room as part of a larger new construction project, prioritizing "function, function, function." The client, a business owner and professional organizer, sought a multi-functional space with abundant and smartly designed storage, including a dedicated area for dogs. Long integrated farmhouse-style elements that connected the laundry room to the rest of the home, such as white overhead cabinets complemented by custom-stained oak lower cabinets, penny round floor tiles, and quartz countertops with subtle gray and gold veining. Creative solutions for pet integration included sliding doors under a peninsula for the dogs. Storage innovations included pullout drawers beneath the sink for hidden trash, an inset pocket for paper towels to keep countertops clutter-free, and another pullout drawer for laundry next to the washer and dryer. A floor-to-ceiling cabinet with pullouts near the patio door housed appliances, cleaning supplies, and a charging station for a vacuum, ensuring every item had a designated place. A unique colorful dog wallpaper was chosen to incorporate the pets' theme and add a vibrant touch. Both winning projects demonstrate a meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to integrating functional needs with sophisticated design. They showcase how laundry rooms and mudrooms can transcend their traditional roles to become beautiful, efficient, and well-integrated spaces within a home, catering to the specific needs and aesthetic preferences of the homeowners. The designers successfully combined practical storage solutions with high-quality materials and thoughtful stylistic choices, resulting in award-winning designs that are both elegant and highly practical. #DesignAwards #MudroomDesign #LaundryRoomDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ContemporaryStyle #TraditionalStyle #FunctionalDesign #StorageSolutions