A’ Design Award has launched its final call for submissions in the 2026 edition, encouraging designers, studios, and businesses to enter work across 158 distinct categories by the February 28, 2026, deadline. Organizers describe the competition as the world’s most prestigious design recognition program, covering fields such as industrial design, architecture, product design, communication design, service design, and fashion design.
Successful entries earn more than just accolades. Benefits include featuring in the annual exhibition and yearbook, a global publicity campaign across design magazines and blogs, placement in international design rankings, detailed feedback from the jury, and a physical trophy. Winners also receive two invitations to the gala event and the chance to list their designs for sale. All winning works are translated into major languages to connect with design enthusiasts, press members, and buyers worldwide, expanding their reach beyond regional boundaries.
The selection committee comprises an international group of design academics, practitioners, and media representatives. Past winning projects have included the Lagos Dining Table by Mollde Equipe, photographed by Victor Leite, and the Whale 0 Pillow by Zhangjiagang Coolist Life Technology Co., Ltd., alongside other standout designs like the Ramesh Armchair (imagery by Illustrator Ehsan Razavi) and the Gala Decorative Lighting (imagery by 3D Artist, ?hsan Doganc?l). The competition’s online portal operates year-round, offering free profile pages, portfolio tools, and exhibition space to all participants, regardless of entry status. This interactive system allows designers to write biographies, upload corporate profiles, and create extensive online portfolios, ensuring continuous visibility and engagement.
For designers, the competition provides both professional exposure and tangible advantages. The free online exhibition platform ensures visibility even for non-winners, while gala attendance and media coverage can advance careers or business opportunities. Results will be announced on May 1, 2026, with updates shared through official channels, including the platform CONTEMPORIST. The deadline of February 28, 2026, is strictly enforced, with no extensions granted.
The complete list of categories, past winners, and submission requirements is available through the official registration portal. The 2025 winners included projects spanning furniture, architectural interiors, and beyond, reflecting the competition’s broad and inclusive scope. Notable entries ranged from the Akhalteke Lounge Chair (photography by Amin Mohammadyari) to the Breath Of The Glacier Sustainable Clothing (photography by Yibo Ji), demonstrating the competition’s ability to highlight innovation across disciplines.