#Japan #Tokyo #YKK AP #Bud Brand #Design Bank

YKK AP's Partnership with Bud Brand Award 2025

YKKAP Corporation is taking a significant step in supporting emerging talent through its sponsorship of the "Bud Brand Award 2025." This prestigious initiative, created by the non-profit organization Japan DESIGN BANK, has been showcasing next-generation creators since 2016 at Milan Design Week. In 2024, and again this year, the exhibit found a home in the vibrant Tortona district, where innovation and design thrive.

The Bud Brand represents a project aimed at nurturing creativity and celebrating young artists and designers. In 2025, the award specifically targets student submissions and entries from designers aged 35 and below, aiming to provide them with vital exposure on an international platform. From over 100 applicants, eight exceptional designs were selected to be displayed at the renowned Milan Design Week—a testament to the caliber of talent being cultivated through this initiative.

The Vibrant Tortona District

The showcasing location, Tortona Rocks, is known for its high footfall during the week-long Milan Design event, bringing in over 10,000 visitors this year. Located near popular spaces like Superstudio, which attracts large crowds, Tortona has become synonymous with showcasing innovative designs and artworks from various companies and independent artists alike. It’s the perfect venue to stage works that challenge and inspire contemporary design.

The Bud Brand Award 2025 exhibition was complemented by a reporting session held on July 2 at the interior shop Fremtiden in Meihama, Fukuoka. This session featured not just the award announcement, but also displayed works that participated in the competition. The exhibition ran from June 29 to July 2 and welcomed attendees daily, allowing them to engage with fresh designs that echo the themes of contemporary living.

Looking Ahead: Bud Brand Award 2026

As the air fills with the excitement of this year's event, plans for the Bud Brand Award 2026 are already in motion. The next theme is set to be "Hanging × Living Items," inviting young designers under 35 to apply and use their ingenuity to tackle these concepts. This annual event continues to expand its reach, offering more young creators the opportunity to present their work on an esteemed international stage. Interested designers are encouraged to visit the Bud Brand website for more information on the application process.

YKK AP's Commitment to Design and Innovation

YKK AP is recognized for its dedication to creating comfortable and safe living spaces through innovative building materials like windows and doors. The company provides a wide range of products for residential and commercial buildings and is committed to ensuring quality in living environments while minimizing environmental impact. As a "window company," YKK AP seeks to enhance everyday life while contributing positively to the planet.

About Japan DESIGN BANK

The Japan DESIGN BANK was established to promote Japanese design globally and nurture the next generation of creators. Operating since 2016 under the Bud Brand project, it has become a key player in enhancing the quality of design education and providing platforms for product design learning. The organization engages with various educational sectors to support designers and artisans who are set to shape the future of creativity within Japan and beyond.

For more details about the Bud Brand initiatives and upcoming events, you can check the respective websites of Bud Brand and Japan DESIGN BANK. Together, these organizations aspire to create a thriving environment for innovation, collaboration, and the continued evolution of design.