A’ Design Award Unveils Remarkable, Winning Creations From 2023–2024

By Mikelle Leow, 13 May 2024

The design world is a competitive landscape, brimming with wonderful ideas and talented individuals. For emerging creatives, carving a niche and achieving recognition can be a daunting task. Enter the A’ Design Award & Competition, one of the world’s most prestigious annual events that shines a spotlight on exceptional design from across the globe, regardless of experience or background. More than just an award ceremony, A’ Design & Competition offers a comprehensive platform for designers to showcase their creativity, gain valuable industry exposure, and take their careers to the next level.

Winning an A’ Design Award & Competition catapults designers onto the global stage, not only through extensive media coverage and a dedicated press network, but also by including their work in the annual yearbook and boosting their ranking on the World Design Rankings—a valuable resource for design professionals and clients browsing for talent. The recognition doesn’t stop there. Winners receive a prestigious trophy, a comprehensive winners’ kit with marketing materials, and even tickets to the exclusive gala night, fostering an opportunity for networking with design luminaries and potential collaborators.

The 2023-2024 results are now in, and as always, the submissions—spanning architecture, fashion, packaging, furniture, lighting, and beyond—have demonstrated exceptional creativity and thinking.

Explore the fresh, prizewinning works below. To register for a shot at being globally recognized by the A’ Design Award, please head here.

Flatiron Lamp

Inspired by Manhattan’s famed Flatiron Building, this minimalist marvel by Mr Smith Studio takes a single sheet of metal and folds it just once to create a striking, origami-like form. It’s more than just a light source; it’s a sculptural conversation piece that adds a touch of understated elegance to any room.

Flatiron Lamp by Mr Smith Studio

The design’s simplicity echoes the philosophy of masters like Bruno Munari and Achille Castiglioni, who believed that stripping away the excess reveals design’s true essence.

Flatiron Lamp by Mr Smith Studio

Hone Shelf

Stepping away from the boxy norm, the Hone Shelf by Pablo Vidiella pushes the boundaries of traditional shelving. Inspired by the organic world, the solid wood appears to defy its own nature with a sense of elasticity. This illusion is achieved by the way the vertical supports gently curve outwards, separating the horizontal shelves. This not only adds visual intrigue but also strengthens the structure and allows for efficient weight distribution.

Hone Shelf by Pablo Vidiella

The result is a stunning and functional piece, handcrafted from sustainably sourced hardwoods, that injects a touch of timeless elegance into any space.

Hone Shelf by Pablo Vidiella

Tau Murano Small Table

This handcrafted gem by Tulczinksy is just as much a conversation starter as it is an intriguing place to set your coffee. Made from the legendary Murano glass, known for its rich colors and centuries-old tradition, the Tau Murano is a collaboration between Reflex and Venetian glass masters, keeping the art of glassblowing alive.

Tau Murano Small Table by Tulczinsky

With a sleek, two-toned design in green, tobacco, amber, or gray, this table adds a touch of elegance and a hint of nostalgia to any room, whether it's a living space, a reading nook, or even a grand entrance. It's a versatile piece that defies limitations, letting you bring a touch of Venetian artistry anywhere in your home.

Tau Murano Small Table by Tulczinsky

Calligraphy Study Desk

Aimed at fostering the appreciation of calligraphy, a cornerstone of Chinese culture, the Calligraphy Study Desk offers a contemporary twist on a traditional practice. Designed by Bai Xiangyu, this innovative desk boasts electric height-adjustable legs, allowing children to comfortably switch between sitting and standing positions while honing their calligraphy skills. The desk also features magnetic holders crafted from wood, keeping specially designed calligraphy brushes organized and within easy reach. Moreover, a compact, mobile cabinet provides storage for essential calligraphy supplies, like paper rolls and scrolls.

Calligraphy Study Desk by Bai Xiangyu

This modern solution blends functionality with tradition, ensuring the continuation of this treasured art form.

Calligraphy Study Desk by Bai Xiangyu

Hen Olive Oil Dispenser

Designer Bernardo Diaz Lopez brings us the Hen Olive Oil Dispenser, a sophisticated and reusable solution for the modern kitchen. Crafted from local Andalusian and Spanish Levantine ceramics, the Hen features a unique, integrated opening and closing mechanism. Its tactile finish and elegant design pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of Spain.

Hen Olive Oil Dispenser by Bernardo Diaz Lopez

Its innovative stopper offers hermetic sealing with a simple twist, eliminating the need for messy removal and ensuring a clean, controlled pour. Inspired by the brand’s iconic salt shaker, the Hen’s egg-shaped design adds a touch of whimsy to this practical kitchen tool.

Hen Olive Oil Dispenser by Bernardo Diaz Lopez

Foremost Legacy Multifunctional Golf Ball Packaging

Peichi Chuang has created a game-changer for golf ball packaging with the Foremost Legacy Multifunctional Golf Ball Packaging, which utilizes moiré printing to create eye-catching, 3D golf ball effects on the packaging itself. But that’s not all—the clever design transforms into a putting practice device, extending its usefulness and adding a fun, interactive element for golfers on the go.

Foremost Legacy Multifunctional Golf Ball Packaging by Peichi Chuang

Umi Emotional Connection Products

The Umi Emotional Connection Products by Sizhe Huang tackle the modern dilemma of loneliness in a connected world. This innovative system bridges the gap between physical and digital intimacy. Umi recognizes the lack of touch and emotional depth in typical digital interactions. Inspired by the power of human gestures, it brings back the warmth of a handwritten note or a gentle touch. The system revolves around two objects—the Pebble and the Nest.

Umi Emotional Connection Products by Sizhe Huang

The Pebble, crafted from a specially textured material, uses haptic technology to simulate a realistic touch. The Nest, equipped with NFC and Bluetooth, effortlessly connects to phones and plays voice messages. Umi integrates with a user-friendly app and Apple Watch counterpart, utilizing cutting-edge technology to personalize touch and voice exchanges in real time.

Umi Emotional Connection Products by Sizhe Huang

Sabbioni Branding Promotional Branding

Designer Paul Robb has crafted a unique branding campaign to celebrate Grafiche Sabbioni's 60th anniversary. Taking cue from the 's printing roots, it blends classic letterpress and linotype techniques with modern typography for a fresh, contemporary feel.

Sabbioni Branding Promotional Branding by Paul Robb

The resulting branding system is energetic, bold, and optimistic, perfectly reflecting Grafiche Sabbioni’s values. Sustainability is at the forefront of the campaign, with all products made from 100% recycled materials and printed using eco-friendly water-based inks to minimize waste. From the anniversary book printed on FSC paper to the two-color PANTONE and CMYK agenda and outer box, every element reflects a dedication to both innovation and environmental responsibility.

Sabbioni Branding Promotional Branding by Paul Robb

Camping Today Tent Calendar

Pack your boring desk calendar away and send it on a hike. This curious alternative by Lisi Cao, Yang Yixin, and Dai Xianmin is a triple threat: a calendar, a DIY camping tent, and a work organizer, all rolled into one. Inspired by the surge in outdoor activities, the Camping Today calendar transforms into a mini tent using fabric and includes iron rods. It’s a fun and creative way to embrace the spirit of camping, right on your desk.

Camping Today Tent Calendar by Lisi Cao, Yang Yixin and Dai Xianmin

But the functionality doesn’t stop there. The tent door features a pull-out drawer for storing pens and supplies, while the back sports a pocket for calendar pages and notes. The eco-conscious packaging, made from sturdy kraft paper, keeps things sustainable and transportation-friendly. To top it all off, the calendar features beautiful linen-cut prints showcasing the joys of camping throughout the year, adding a touch of wanderlust to any workspace.

Camping Today Tent Calendar by Lisi Cao, Yang Yixin and Dai Xianmin

Transparent Turntable Wireless Vinyl Record Player

The Transparent Turntable by Per Brickstad breathes new life into vinyl record players. This modern marvel reimagines the classic turntable with a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design. Crafted from aluminum and tempered glass, it prioritizes both durability and transparency, reflecting its honest approach to both aesthetics and functionality.

Transparent Turntable Wireless Vinyl Record Player by Per Brickstad

The belt-driven system boasts a built-in phono stage and a pre-mounted Ortofon cartridge, ensuring high-quality audio playback. But the Transparent Turntable goes beyond just good looks and sound. Its innovative modular design allows for easy upgrades and repairs, making it a sustainable and future-proof choice for vinyl enthusiasts.

Transparent Turntable Wireless Vinyl Record Player by Per Brickstad

The Opposite Multi-wear Fashion Collection

Defying definition, this gender-neutral knitwear by Yishu Yan prioritizes adaptability and longevity with zero-cut, zero-waste designs that can be worn in multiple ways. The focus with the Opposite Multi-wear Fashion Collection isn’t on creating a specific silhouette or image, but rather on empowering the wearer to express themselves freely.

The Opposite Multi-wear Fashion Collection by Yishu Yan

Through interesting knitting techniques and clever construction, Yan explores the idea of contrasting elements working together, blurring the lines between traditional Eastern and Western clothing styles, and challenging the very idea of what constitutes “men’s” or “women’s” wear.

The Opposite Multi-wear Fashion Collection by Yishu Yan

Cinqueterre Multifunctional Table Lamp

This stylish Cinqueterre Multifunctional Table Lamp, crafted by Francesco Cappuccio, is shaped like a charming little illuminated house. But it’s not just a pretty facade with a picket fence; it’s functional too.

Cinqueterre Multifunctional Table Lamp by Francesco Cappuccio

This stylish aluminum lamp includes a built-in USB hub with hidden plugs and even a wireless charging station, eliminating the need for extra outlets. There’s also a handy gutter and hooks, perfect for keeping pens, jewelry, keys, or any other odds and ends organized and within easy reach. This innovative lamp is a sleek and practical organizer that transforms your desk into a clutter-free zone.

Cinqueterre Multifunctional Table Lamp by Francesco Cappuccio

Bangkok Pendant Lamp

The Bangkok Pendant Lamp by Alexey Danilin offers a unique lighting experience inspired by Buddhist temples. Drawing from the tiered design of Wats, these architectural wonders that embody the earthly and spiritual realms, the Bangkok lamp features two or three sleek glass elements. The minimalist silhouette ensures the entire lamp is bathed in light, reminiscent of the illuminated interiors of these sacred spaces. This sleek design brings a touch of serenity and cultural flair to any modern home.

Bangkok Pendant Lamp by Alexey Danilin

Palco Foosball Table

Edson Martone Henrique Vieira has reimagined the classic foosball table with the Palco. Its base, constructed from reforested wood for strength and longevity, features vertical slats reminiscent of Greek columns. Inspired by the tiered seating of modern sports arenas, the table's overall form incorporates overlapping planes, creating a visually striking piece of functional art.

Palco Foosball Table by Edson Martone Henrique Vieira

The Palco Foosball Table proves that eco-conscious design can be both stylish and game-ready.

Palco Foosball Table by Edson Martone Henrique Vieira

Royal One Private Club House

Kris Lin’s work for the Royal One Private Clubhouse, an exclusive luxurious haven designed for wine connoisseurs and social gatherings, caters to both personal indulgence and lively interaction, offering a unique blend of amenities across five floors. Wine enthusiasts will revel in the dedicated cellar, while a restaurant, underground barbecue room, billiards room, and even an audio-visual entertainment room provide ample space for socializing.

Royal One Private Club House by Kris Lin

The design itself is a visual accomplishment, incorporating circular elements that symbolize harmony and the traditional Chinese concept of “Unity of Heaven and Human.” A striking water droplet art piece adds a touch of artistic flair, merging natural elements with modern design. The Royal One Private Clubhouse is a grand statement, challenging the role of private clubs and pushing the boundaries of spatial aesthetics and philosophy.

Royal One Private Club House by Kris Lin

Meland Club Indoor Playground

Stepping into a world of forgotten creatures and fantastical landscapes, the Meland Club Indoor Playground in Shenzhen, China, is unlike any other. Designed by Li Xiang, this wondrous space marries the beauty of the Four Seasons with a touch of whimsy. Abstract mechanical elements create a dynamic atmosphere, while vibrant colors and playful animal figures spark children’s imaginations.

Meland Club Indoor Playground by Li Xiang

Spread across multiple floors, the playground offers a variety of zones for exploration and fun. But Meland Club isn’t just about entertainment. The design team cleverly incorporated imagery of 60 extinct animals, adding an educational layer and reminding visitors of the importance of protecting endangered species.

Meland Club Indoor Playground by Li Xiang

Yinchuang Zhong Shu Ge Book Store

Yinchuang Zhong Shu Ge Book Store, created by Masato Kure and Masashi Ota, throws out the rulebook. Inspired by the idea of “intersection,” this store is all about bringing people and ideas together. Towering bookshelves seemingly defy gravity, intertwining in mid-air to create a symbolic space where diverse cultures, perspectives, and knowledge collide.

Yinchuang Zhong Shu Ge Book Store by Masato Kure and Masashi Ota

Here, you can get lost in a good book, chat with someone from a different background, or simply admire the architectural feat of the grand staircase and atrium. Natural light floods the space, creating a calming yet energetic atmosphere that makes you want to linger.

Yinchuang Zhong Shu Ge Book Store by Masato Kure and Masashi Ota

Amar Beirut Restaurant

Stepping foot into the Amar Beirut Restaurant in Warsaw, Poland, is like walking into another world. Designed by Marina Khalil, this two-hectare space within the historic Norblin Factory blends the ambience of a museum with the vibrancy of Lebanese culture. Soaring ceilings adorned with intricate patterns created using ceramic tiles catch the eye, while walls showcase traditional jugs adding a touch of cultural authenticity. Suspended cutlery decorations and live music further immerse diners in the experience.

Amar Beirut Restaurant by Marina Khalil

Beyond aesthetics, the design is a fusion of modern and traditional techniques. Pixel lighting technology embedded in the ceiling panels creates a dynamic atmosphere, while warm wooden stripes add texture and character. Custom-made furniture designed to harmoniously ease into the overall concept ensures a cohesive and inviting space. From the intricate tilework to the cutting-edge lighting, Amar Beirut Restaurant is a key example of thoughtful design and a celebration of Lebanese culture.

Amar Beirut Restaurant by Marina Khalil

Artifact Bar

The Artifact Bar, designed by Nelson Chow, blasts you into a futuristic wonderland. Inspired by the winding shapes of underground water tanks, the bar’s design is anything but ordinary. Hidden within Jardine House's upscale BaseHall food court, the entrance is a dead giveaway with its porthole-like windows, hinting at the industrial-meets-spaceship theme that awaits. Step inside and be wowed by dramatic curves, a sculptural bar reminiscent of an airplane cocktail lounge, and bold, ribbed arches that seem to stretch endlessly across a mirrored ceiling. The lighting adds another layer of fantasy, with a faux skylight casting a soft, golden glow that mimics the setting sun—all above a sinuous walnut bar that begs to be explored.

Artifact Bar by Nelson Chow

The designer hasn’t missed a single detail—from the custom-designed sci-fi bar chairs and stools to the intimate booths upholstered in plush ivory leather, every element contributes to this immersive and unforgettable drinking experience.

Artifact Bar by Nelson Chow

Chanba Poly Theatre

The Chanba Poly Theatre appears to rise organically from the earth like a massive stone nestled against the Qinling Mountains, inspired by the image of a “Brilliant Gem on the Banks of Chan River.” Envisioned by Renata Yin, the theater has flowing lines that extend into the public hall, where a dramatic curtain wall creates a mesmerizing visual conversation.

Chanba Poly Theatre by Renata Yin

Skyline Bay Community Center

Skyline Bay Community Center, the brainchild of Ye Liren, is anything but your average community hub. Inspired by the natural curves and flow of its surroundings, the center embraces a modern, luxurious feel. The structure reflects the passage of time and light, its flowing lines guiding visitors through a beautifully-lit exhibition space.

Skyline Bay Community Center by Ye Liren

Upon arrival, a welcoming entrance sets the tone, fostering a sense of belonging and anticipation for what lies ahead. Step inside and be greeted by calming, circular curves—a design choice that not only creates visual harmony but also offers tranquil corners for quiet reflection and a sense of personal space. This focus on individuality extends to the overall experience, with the center transforming into a collection of “island spaces”—semi-private areas catering to visitors’ desires for a touch of luxury and personalized attention.

Skyline Bay Community Center by Ye Liren

Submissions for the 2024–2025 cycle at the A’ Design Award & Competition are now open. Don’t miss your chance at advancing your career—nominate your best work today.

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