The Vision for the German Design Awards 2026
Design is Not the Finish Line
What Defines Great Design in 2026?
The answer is as dynamic as the discipline itself. Design doesn’t just respond to technological, social, and ecological change; it sparks progress, connects people, and opens up new perspectives. The German Design Awards 2026 reflect this forward-thinking mindset.
A System in Motion
The key visual turns this vision into a strong visual identity: a field of lines that offers orientation while leaving space for openness. Design begins with a grid, a conscious choice, and transforms from sketch to system. Material becomes mindset, turning form into strategic intention. At these intersections, new frameworks emerge that embrace friction and enable change.
Connecting Global Excellence
Under the banner of “Connecting Global Excellence”, the German Design Awards 2026 bring international reach and relevance to the forefront. What begins with the call for entries evolves into a broader dialogue through curated talks and networking opportunities. This becomes especially clear in the new series Confessions, developed with DAAily Platforms, which brings together designers, brands, and institutions across countries and disciplines.
The kick-off in Zurich, titled Confessions of an Architect, highlighted the power of honest dialogue. The next stop: Copenhagen, during 3 Days of Design, with new voices and fresh takes on the future of product design.
What’s New
In addition to the established disciplines, the German Design Awards 2026 continue to spotlight emerging and relevant categories: Circular Design, AI in Architecture and Metaverse, and Service Design. These reflect the urgent questions of our time and show how design is a driver of transformation and a connector between humans and technology.
More Than a Competition
The German Design Awards 2026 are more than a competition. They’re a platform for visibility, attitude, and excellence. On 6 February 2026, Frankfurt will become the international meeting point of the design world. As the city embarks on its year as World Design Capital, Frankfurt RheinMain, it will also host the German Design Awards Show.
Register now!
