Honoring 25 Years of National Design Awards
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, is excited to recognize a significant milestone—the 25th anniversary of the National Design Awards. This prestigious program, which originated in 2000 as a project by the White House Millennium Council, has played a crucial role in enhancing national awareness about how design influences our daily lives.
The Evolution of Design Awards
Over the years, the National Design Awards have adapted to changing times while remaining committed to the core values of innovation and civic service synonymous with the Smithsonian. This year's awards continue that legacy by honoring individuals and groups whose work in design exemplifies excellence and impact.
Spotlighting the 2025 Award Winners
This year, a diverse and multidisciplinary jury selected the winners, who have shown exceptional talent and creativity in their respective fields. The awards celebration is set to honor not only the 2025 winners but also the legacy of past awardees and jury members, highlighting their contributions to the evolving landscape of design.
Maria Nicanor, the director of Cooper Hewitt, expressed the idea that design is integral to our daily experience and has the power to transform our understanding of the world. She emphasized the museum's role in bringing attention to influential design practices through the National Design Awards program.
Meet the 2025 Winners
The winners of this year’s awards include:
- Kim Hastreiter, awarded as Design Visionary
- ilumiNACIÓN by Resilient Power Puerto Rico, recognized for Climate Action
- Nu Goteh, named Emerging Designer
- Michael Maltzan Architecture, awarded for Architecture
- Matt Willey, recognized in Communication Design
- Emerging Objects, awarded for Digital Design
- Melitta Baumeister, recognized for Fashion Design
- Little Wing Lee, awarded for Interior Design
- TERREMOTO, winner in Landscape Architecture
- Jules Sherman, awarded for Product Design
Support and Collaboration Behind the Awards
The National Design Awards would not be possible without the generous support from sponsors such as Shelby and Frederick Gans, Jon Iwata, Lisa Roberts, and many others. Their contributions play a vital role in celebrating excellence in design and fostering innovation in the field.
Additionally, the creation of the National Design Award trophies is a beautiful collaboration with the Corning Museum of Glass, showcasing the remarkable artistry involved in these awards.
About Cooper Hewitt
Cooper Hewitt is renowned as America's design museum, fostering inclusivity and innovation within the design community. With a commitment to dynamic exhibitions and educational programs, the museum inspires individuals to engage with design in meaningful ways, empowering them through creative expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the National Design Awards?
The National Design Awards honor excellence in design across various fields and have been celebrating outstanding work since 2000.
How are winners selected for the National Design Awards?
A multidisciplinary jury evaluates the nominees based on innovation and impact in their respective design fields.
Who is eligible for the National Design Awards?
Design professionals and organizations across various disciplines are eligible for consideration in the awards program.
Why is the 25th anniversary significant?
This milestone highlights two and a half decades of recognizing and promoting the importance of design in society.
Where can I learn more about the National Design Awards?
Visit the official Cooper Hewitt website for additional information about the awards and this year’s winners.
