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The 2025 iF DESIGN AWARD: Where Innovation Meets Sustainability

The prestigious iF DESIGN AWARD kicked off its preliminary jury process for the 2025 edition, marking another milestone in the world of design. Established in 1953, iF DESIGN has become one of the most esteemed design awards globally, showcasing exemplary innovation and creativity across various disciplines. This year is particularly notable not only for its sheer volume of entries but also for the introduction of sustainability criteria that emphasize the environmental and social impact of design.

A Diverse and Influential Jury

The jury for the 2025 iF DESIGN AWARD is a mixture of prominent figures from different regions and design spheres. A total of 131 jurors have been assembled, including highly regarded U.S.-based jurors like Lisa Gralnek, the newly appointed Global Head of Sustainability Impact at iF Design USA; Chris Down from Mattel; and Cheryl Durst from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). These individuals bring a wealth of experience to the jury process, representing various sectors from academia to industry giants.

In addition to local representation, the jury also includes international experts such as Daisuke Ishii from Sony Group in Japan and Lani Adeoye from Studio Lani in Nigeria. This diversity not only enriches the evaluation process but showcases a global perspective that is increasingly vital in contemporary design discussions.

The Importance of Sustainability

A significant aspect of this year’s iF DESIGN AWARD is the initiative to incorporate sustainability into the judging criteria. This marks a paradigm shift in how design is evaluated, placing substantial importance on a project's environmental and social implications. Sustainability will account for 20% of the overall scoring, reflecting iF Design's commitment to promoting responsible design practices.

To guide jurors through these innovative sustainability standards, a dedicated Sustainability Working Group has been established. This group aims to ensure that jurors thoroughly consider the ecological and social impacts of each submission, underscoring the industry's responsibility toward a sustainable future.

Record Participation and Scope

The 2025 edition of the iF DESIGN AWARD has attracted a staggering nearly 11,000 entries from 70 countries, spanning nine design disciplines and 82 categories. This remarkable participation illustrates an ongoing global enthusiasm for versatile design solutions and innovation. The rigorous selection process begins with an online pre-selection, wherein the top 50% of entries will be advanced for further evaluation.

In February, the jurors will convene in Germany for an intensive two-and-a-half-day review session, where they’ll intricately assess each entry based on five fundamental criteria: Idea, Form, Function, Differentiation, and Sustainability.

Strengthening Ties with North America

The year 2025 also marks the first anniversary of iF Design's U.S. subsidiary. This development is expected to significantly bolster the organization's ties to North America, promoting further design innovation and collaboration in the region. Lisa Gralnek's new role emphasizes the seriousness with which iF DESIGN takes its commitment to sustainability, affecting how future designs are conceived and evaluated.

As we look forward to the 2025 iF DESIGN AWARD, it is clear that these initiatives not only set a new standard for design awards but also resonate with growing sentiments around sustainability within design. This blend of tradition and innovation is sure to elevate the impact of design on society and the environment in the years to come.

By creating an inclusive, rigorous judging process and promoting responsible design, the iF DESIGN AWARD continues to uphold its stature as one of the most esteemed accolades within the global design community.