An annual awards program recognizing the digital concepts, creative thinking and visionary interiors shaping the future of design.
The Design News Now Designing What’s Next Awards celebrate exceptional interior design at its most essential stage: the idea.
Honoring the industry’s most compelling digitally conceived spaces, the awards recognize creativity, originality and design excellence before construction, installation or professional photography enters the equation. Entries are evaluated on the strength of the concept and the designer’s ability to translate that vision into a fully realized environment.
By putting the focus on vision rather than project budget, access to professional photography or completion status, Designing What’s Next creates a more level playing field—giving powerful ideas the opportunity to compete on their own merit.
Designers may enter conceptual work, client proposals, unbuilt projects or recently completed projects presented through either digital renderings or complete photography.
Professional project photography is not required. Entries are judged through their digital presentation, allowing the design idea—not the scale or budget of the finished project—to take center stage.
Award to be presented for Best in Show
$5,000 cash award based upon winning design selected from all category winners.
Award Categories
Residential Commercial
• Best Living Space • Best Hospitality Space
• Best Kitchen Design • Best Healthcare or Wellness Space
• Best Bathroom Design
• Best Bedroom Retreat
• Best Small Space
• Best Dining Room
• Best Outdoor space
• Office or Library
IMPORTANT DETAILS FOR CONTESTANTS
Submission Requirements
Please note the following requirements:
- 3–6 digital renderings showcasing the overall space and key design details
- Mood board communicating the design direction, palette, and material story
- Design concept narrative of up to 300 words
- Product and material specifications
- Floor plan — optional, but encouraged
Dates:
- September 2, 2026 – Official Launch Date; entry opens
- December 1, 2026 – Midnight deadline for all submissions
- January 4, 2027 – Final votes across all categories
- January 7, 2027 – Finalists Announced
- January 2027 – Awards Ceremony, Las Vegas Market, Building B, Worldview, 16th Floor
Questions? Email
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