Overview
The 2025 Rome Design Awards returns for its second season, honoring exceptional achievements in global design. Inspired by the ideals of the Renaissance—where beauty met function—the competition celebrates excellence across disciplines including architecture, interior design, product design, packaging, furniture, lighting, and student design. Hosted on an international platform, this award is an invitation for designers and studios to push creative limits and be recognized for shaping the future of design.
With the theme “The Rise of Modern Design”, this season highlights visionary work that bridges classical influence and contemporary innovation. Designers are called to showcase transformative ideas that redefine industry standards and leave a lasting legacy of creativity and impact.
Why You Should Participate
The Rome Design Awards is more than a competition—it’s a global stage for creative thinkers who dare to innovate. Participating allows you to:
- Be internationally recognized in your design category
- Compete for one of the highest design honors inspired by Italian artistry
- Showcase your project to a global audience of professionals and peers
- Gain exposure through features on Rome Design Awards and media partner sites
- Receive a prestigious certificate and optional statuette commemorating your achievement
Whether you’re an architect, product designer, student, or design agency, this is your opportunity to gain the visibility your work deserves.
Key Highlights
- Theme: The Rise of Modern Design
- Award Categories:
- Architectural Design
- Interior Design
- Furniture Design
- Product Design
- Packaging Design
- Lighting Design
- Student Design
- Eligibility: Open globally to individuals and teams in all design disciplines, including professionals, agencies, freelancers, students, and manufacturers
- Judging Format: Anonymous, impartial review by a panel of international experts
- Evaluation Criteria:
- Creativity / Concept / Idea
- Brief Execution / Planning
- Visual & Design Impact
- Innovation & Functionality
- Memorability & Effectiveness
Entry Fees
| Registration Period | Dates | Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Early Bird | 13 June – 30 July 2025 | $209 |
| Regular | 31 July – 29 August 2025 | $219 |
| Final | 30 August – 29 September 2025 | $239 |
| Final Extension | 30 September – 31 October 2025 | $249 |
| Last Minute | 1 November – 28 November 2025 | $259 |
Each entry is for one category. Additional categories require separate submissions.
Prizes and Recognition
| Award Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Rome Design of the Year | One top-scoring entry from each category receives the highest recognition |
| Platinum Winner | Score: 85–100 points |
| Gold Winner | Score: 70–84 points |
| Silver Winner | Score: 50–69 points |
All Winners Receive:
- Complimentary certificate with winner’s name and project title
- Optional purchase of custom Rome Design Awards statuettes
- Digital badge and logo for promotional use
- Feature on the official Rome Design Awards gallery
- Press release template for announcement
- Random social media features (Platinum and Gold only)
Submission Details
- Project Date: Must be completed within the last five (5) years
- Format: Flattened JPEG/JPG, under 4MB, 1,200px wide preferred, 300dpi, RGB
- Entry Description:
- Up to 350 words recommended
- Non-English entries must include written English translation
- Should explain concept, creativity, and execution clearly
- Note:
- Entries must reflect the original execution—no post-modifications allowed
- Entries may be reclassified by organizers if submitted under incorrect category
Important Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Final Registration Deadline | 28 November 2025 |
| Results Announcement | 12 December 2025 |
How to Join
- Select your category and prepare your entry materials
- Visit the official Rome Design Awards platform and fill out the registration form
- Pay the corresponding entry fee based on the registration period
- Submit your project images and written brief (with English translation if applicable)
- Wait for the results announcement on 12 December 2025
Judging Criteria
Each entry is evaluated blind by an international jury based on the following:
- Creativity and Concept
- Execution and Planning
- Design and Visual Appeal
- Functionality and Innovation
- Impact and Memorability
All judging is conducted anonymously to eliminate bias or external influence.
✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight
This competition seamlessly blends historical inspiration with modern creative expression. While the breadth of categories encourages diversity, the theme’s demand for innovation could challenge entries rooted in tradition. Nevertheless, the Rome Design Awards fosters a high-level forum for forward-thinking design narratives—an essential bridge between the heritage of beauty and the urgency of future functionality.
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