2026 Interior Design Awards
This is a premier opportunity to showcase the projects and practices that elevate design standards in our community. The following categories will be considered:
Best New Designer
Honoring an emerging talent who is making a significant impact early in their career
The Visionary Award
Best Overall Interior Design Project
Recognizing a project that demonstrates exceptional vision and execution from concept to completion.
The Artisan Award
Best Use of Materials and Textures
Celebrating a project that showcases a masterful and creative use of materials and textiles.
The Innovator Award
Most Creative Small Space Solution
Highlighting a project that ingeniously optimizes a small space for both form and function.
The Sustainable Design Award
Most Eco-Friendly Project
Acknowledging a project that prioritizes environmentally responsible materials and practices.
The People’s Choice Award
Best Transformative Before & After
Awarded to the project that best demonstrates a stunning and impactful transformation, as voted on by the public.
The Selection Process and Eligibility
The awards honor designers whose work demonstrates outstanding aesthetic merit, functionality, and innovative use of space and materials.
Submissions will undergo a rigorous review by a panel of industry experts, focusing on the quality, impact, and originality of the projects.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 Interior Designer Awards, the nominated individual or firm must meet the following criteria:
- The Interior Designer must be actively practicing or living within a 35-mile radius of Chicago, Illinois.
- The nominated projects must have been completed between January 1, 2024, and December 31, 2025.
How to Submit or Nominate
Who will you nominate for their exceptional work this year?
To submit or nominate, please visit the link below:
Key Dates and Event Details
Nomination Deadline: December 15, 2025, at 11:59 PM CST
All submissions and supporting materials must be received by this deadline.
Winner Announcement: January 10, 2026
Winners will be notified privately and announced publicly.
Awards Ceremony: January 22, 2026
A special evening event in Chicago to celebrate the award recipients.
The Awards Ceremony
Award recipients and invited guests will be honored at an industry awards ceremony on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in Chicago (location TBA). This event will provide a unique opportunity for networking, recognition, and celebrating the industry’s best, with details on location and tickets to be shared with winners and nominees soon after the public announcement.