The SEGD Global Design Awards, presented by DCL (Design Communications Ltd.), celebrate excellence in experiential design, recognizing projects that connect people to place through innovative storytelling, design, and interaction. Since 1987, the awards have honored exceptional work in diverse disciplines such as branded environments, wayfinding, exhibitions, public installations, and digital experiences.

Information & Application Details:

  • Early Deadline: January 31, 2025
  • Late Deadline: February 28, 2025
  • Final Deadline: March 15, 2025
  • Entry Fees:
    • SEGD Student Members: Free
    • Student Non-members: $50/entry
    • SEGD Members: $330/entry ($275/entry for 3+ submissions)
    • Non-members: $650/entry
    • Late fees apply after January 31 ($100-$150 depending on the submission period)

 

Eligibility:

  • Open to designers, architects, landscape architects, digital content creators, experience designers, and students.
  • Projects must have been completed between January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2024.
  • Student projects must be from 2023 or 2024.
  • SEGD members and non-members can apply.
  • Projects previously submitted but not awarded may be re-entered.

 

Categories:

  1. Branded Environments – Corporate, workplace, sports, retail, cultural, healthcare spaces.
  2. Digital Experiences – AR/VR, immersive, interactive, film-based experiences.
  3. Exhibition – Museums, galleries, visitor centers, sports facilities.
  4. Placemaking – Public spaces, parks, community hubs.
  5. Public Installation – Memorials, interpretive art, temporary installations.
  6. Strategy/Research/Planning – Master plans, guidelines, strategy documents.
  7. Wayfinding – Signage systems, maps, symbols, digital navigation tools.

 

How to Apply:

  • Entries must be submitted via the SEGD online entry system.
  • Submission must remain anonymous (no firm names in descriptions or visuals).
  • Entries can be submitted in multiple categories (separate fee required for each).

 

Submission Requirements:

  • Written Description: Up to 700 words covering objectives, challenges, and design solutions.
  • Images: Up to 8 high-resolution images (JPG, 300 dpi, 7MB limit per file), with captions.
  • Video (Optional): Up to 1-minute sizzle reel (MP4, MOV, WMV, 105MB max).
  • For digital media projects: Full video required.
  • Research/Planning projects: Hard copies can be mailed to SEGD’s Washington, DC office.

Sustainability & Diversity Considerations

  • Sustainability Impact Recognition (optional) for projects emphasizing eco-friendly design.
  • Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Projects reflecting historically underrepresented communities are encouraged.

 

Selection Process:

  • A multidisciplinary jury reviews all entries anonymously.
  • Projects are evaluated based on their effectiveness in connecting people to place, user experience, and design challenges.
  • Honor and Merit Awards are given in each category.
  • Additional recognitions include:
    • Best of Show – Outstanding project across all categories.
    • Sylvia Harris Award – Projects with strong social impact.
    • Life Centered Design Award – Recognizing sustainable, people-focused design.

 

Program Benefits & Awards:

  • Winners are featured in the SEGD Global Design Awards Annual and online archive.
  • Media coverage, including press releases and social media promotion.
  • Recognition at the SEGD Global Design Awards Celebration in San Francisco, Nov 13-15, 2025.

 

Contact & Resources:

 

Website Link:

https://segd.org/awards/the-segd-global-design-awards/

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