#Japan #Milan Design Week #Shibuya #Italian Design #Bud Brand

Bud Brand's Call for Entries for Milano Design Week 2026

The Bud Brand project, organized by the General Incorporated Association Japan DESIGN BANK, is inviting submissions for its exhibition at the upcoming Milano Design Week 2026, one of the world's largest design and art events. Scheduled to kick off on April 21, 2026, this year's theme is "Hanging Lifestyle Items," encouraging creativity from students and designers alike.

A Platform for Emerging Designers

For several years, Bud Brand has served as a platform to support emerging talent in showcasing their innovative designs at Milano Design Week. Aspiring creators are asked to explore the potential of new products that evoke feelings of optimism and positivity, often associated with what we look up to in our daily lives.

The design challenge revolves around products that can be suspended from ceilings or stands, emphasizing functionality and aesthetic value in everyday living. The goal is to transform our emotional states and enhance our living experiences through thoughtfully designed objects.

Design Submission Guidelines

Participants must submit proposals by July 31, 2024, in a PDF format sized A3. Pre-registration is required by July 25, 2024. Key details include:

• - Theme: “Hanging Lifestyle Items”
• - Dimensions: Approximately 60cm in height and width
• - Weight Limit: Up to 3 kg
• - Eligibility: Open to individuals aged 35 or younger as of April 2026

The selected winners will see their projects transformed into actual products, showcased at Milan Design Week 2026, presenting a unique opportunity to gain international exposure.

Prizes on Offer

Awards will include:

• - Grand Prize: 300,000 yen + exhibition at Milano Design Week 2026
• - Runner-Up Prize: 100,000 yen + exhibition at Milano Design Week 2026
• - Encouragement Award: Exhibition at Milano Design Week 2026 (with potential exclusions if no suitable proposals are received)

About Bud Brand

The concept behind Bud Brand symbolizes the budding potential of young creators in Japan's design landscape. Since its inception in 2016, the project has aimed to facilitate exposure for talented designers on an international scale. In 2019, for instance, Bud Brand proudly exhibited 13 projects from various creators contributing to local communities, affirming the importance of skill and creativity in today's market.

The Importance of Global Exposure

As the world continually evolves, there is a pressing need for platforms that enable Japanese designers to showcase their work globally. Bud Brand, alongside Japan DESIGN BANK, is committed to cultivating an environment where the next generation of creative talent can thrive. Supporting their journey through mentorship and collaboration with local artisans, the goal is to inspire these designers to push the boundaries of what Japanese design can become in the future.

What is Milano Design Week?

Milano Design Week is an annual event held every April, regarded as the largest fair for interior design globally. With more than 2,000 exhibiting companies and over 300,000 visitors drawn to the event, it transforms the entire city of Milan into a design hub. The week-long event highlights the latest trends and innovations, becoming a vital point for emerging ideas and creativity in design.

Conclusion

Bud Brand's call for submissions to the Milano Design Week 2026 represents a significant opportunity for young designers to share their innovative ideas and bring Japanese design to the forefront of the international stage. With a focus on the theme of “Hanging Lifestyle Items,” this initiative is not just a contest but a celebration of creativity, capability, and the future of design.