
Initiated in Washington, D.C., USA, the un Design Award is an annual international design competition launched by the International Competition Association (ICA). Centred around the theme “The Self is the World,” the 2025 competition embraces an operational philosophy of being “undefined”.
Brief
The un Design Award represents an insoluble proposition and a romantic quest. The most interesting aspect lies in the variety of interpretations that different people can bring to it. “un” can stand for “undefined”, reflecting our belief that life is a wilderness, not a track.
By shedding labels and refusing to be defined, one can be a square with curves or a circle with edges, without overly concerning oneself with others’ standards – the world is your own. “un” can also signify “unique”, as the homogeneity of templates can never satisfy the diverse expectations of the market. Creativity involves creation and innovation, and is a unique expression born of deep reflection. Furthermore, “un” could mean “unlimited”, where the emergence of rules signifies a shift from disorder to order. However, for creators functioning within the parameters of the un Design Award, there should be no limits to the shapes and boundaries of imagination.
Guidelines
- The un Design Awards’ aim is to discover and recognize the most influential, outstanding designs and innovative talents worldwide.
- This competition is open to architects, designers, developers, manufacturers, owners, teachers and students from colleges and universities around the world.
- There are two entry categories: professional group and student group for independent selection.
- Entries for the un Design Award will be juried as part of one of six categories: architecture design, interior design, landscape design, lighting design, product design or graphic design.
- Concept designs, ongoing designs or design works completed within the past 5 years are all eligible to participate.
Prizes
- Best of Year, Platinum, Gold and Silver awards will be given.
- All un Design Award winners will receive the following benefits for free: an electronic certificate, a winner’s logo suitable for any scenario and the opportunity to display their winning works online.
- The “Best of Year” in all six major categories will receive a free winner package, and other winners can customize trophies and certificates at their own expense.