What is the Kyoto Global Design Awards?

Established in 2019, the Kyoto Global Design Awards (KGDA) is a prestigious international competition dedicated to honoring exceptional designers globally. With seven main categories encompassing Visual, Real Estate, Environment, Trends (Fashion), Restaurants/Hotels/Bars, Industry, and Theory, the KGDA recognizes outstanding contributions across diverse design realms. The exclusive "Best 100" category, curated by the KGDA Committee and media partners, specifically acknowledges designers and brands achieving remarkable feats in the field of design for the year. This special category focuses on those who have made significant strides in promoting global sustainable development, with the annual list highlighting outstanding contributions to the design industry.

Why was the Kyoto Global Design Awards Established?

The Kyoto Global Design Awards' mission is to recognize, discover, and support outstanding designers from around the world. All designers, regardless of their background or notoriety, can receive unprecedented recognition through the Kyoto Global Design Awards. The award also intends to contribute to society by creating a new perception of culture, design and aesthetics among the public.

Since its inception, the Kyoto Global Design Awards' have served as a catalyst for design to influence lifestyles, communities, and trends. It has also inspired people to develop a greater sense of beauty and given them the ability to perceive and appreciate good design. The Kyoto Global Design Awards are designed to give talented designers the international recognition they deserve and open up new opportunities for them to expand their businesses.

Who can participate in the award?

KGDA welcomes all individuals and teams who share a passion for design, regardless of their professional background or affiliation with any design company or brand. We are committed to recognizing works that align with our founding principles and celebrate timeless design projects.

KGDA honors designs that address the unknown challenges brought by shifts and conflicts in our times. Regardless of when your project was completed, if it has made a significant contribution to solving contemporary issues, it deserves recognition. We encourage every designer, whether experienced or new, to submit their projects and ensure they receive the recognition they deserve at the Kyoto Global Design Awards.

What’s the Selection Process?

Each Kyoto Global Design Awards winner has undergone an extensive review process. Award winners are selected through a series of reviews and evaluations that look at their trend-setting capabilities and influence from various angles. The Kyoto Global Design Awards jury is composed of high-level experts from multiple fields, including design, art and culture and environment. Entries are reviewed from various angles, with a focus on lifestyle and human nature. Judges look for designs that impact an entire field and lead to new opportunities for creative or business collaboration.

What are the Judging Criteria?

Regarding the KGDA judging criteria, there are six key points. Depending on the specific categories, the percentages may be slightly adjusted. Our primary focus is to highlight how design can be both sustainable and influential in the world, and how designers can have a positive impact on society.

• Aesthetic Excellence: Does the design exhibit an awe-inspiring aesthetic while also prioritizing sustainable practices? Our judges will be looking for evidence of meticulous detailing, thoughtful material usage, and an understanding that beauty can be subjective.

• Innovation: Does the design embody original thinking or offer a fresh perspective in addressing a problem? While not every entry is expected to revolutionize the field, our judges will be attentive to inventive approaches and new ideas.

• Societal Impact: How influential is the design in advancing society and fostering positive change? Judges will evaluate the potential impact of the design on the wider community.

• Nature Positivity: Is the project considerate towards both people and the planet? While the project doesn't necessarily need to aim to save the world, it should genuinely prioritize the well-being of users and the environment.

• Sustainability Commitment: Does the design unequivocally demonstrate a dedication to sustainable practices and principles? Judges will carefully examine evidence of environmentally responsible choices in materials, construction, and operation, as well as a steadfast commitment to minimizing the project's ecological footprint.

• Functionality: Is the design easy to use, safe, and easy to maintain? How well does it accommodate user experience and technical application? Judges will assess the design's practicality, considering its usability, safety features, and maintenance requirements.

What do Laureates Receive?

In addition to the award, winners also receive marketing rights to VI for that year, as well as the right to have their work published in influential social media and outlets. The winning designers are invited to design workshops and award ceremonies regularly. Talented designers can also benefit from the opportunity to further expand their business opportunities.

Registration Time in 2024

Registration is open from the beginning of 2024 till the end of August. The judging committee proceeds with candidate screening after registration. Please hold on to the chance to shine with Kyoto Global Design Awards!