The Singapore Design Awards (SDA) has received a new record of 250 project submissions – featuring innovative and outsanding creative works by designers, creative firms and professionals. This is the highest number of project submissions received since the SDA was launched in 1988 by then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.
The Award, one of the most prestigious awards accorded for designers and design-related projects in Asia, aims to raise awareness of the strategic role of designers in driving success in economic development in the region, with Singapore at the heart of a dynamic Southeast Asia.
The entries come under 11 design disciplines, which include: Branding, Built Environment, Events and Exhibitions, Fashion, Furniture, Interior, Multidisciplinary, New Media (Digital), Industrial / Product, Packaging and Print.
This year, the Design Business Chamber Singapore (DBCS) introduced three new categories – Asia’s Top Designers, Asia’s Top Design Practices and the Student Design Awards to unveil the innovative minds behind the creative processes driving the design and business landscape.
Among those vying for the title of Asia’s Top Design Practices are homegrown SMEs, public sector organisations and established players in creative industries, ranging from architectural and interior design firms, to design studios and multidisciplinary design consultancies.
The Awards will also see 21 designers and 7 schools from the public and private sector vying for the top accolade of Asia’s Top Designers and Student Design Awards.
Mr Tai Lee Siang, President of DBCS said, “We have adopted a fresh new approach for the SDA this year, to focus not only the best-in-class companies, but also the creative talents that are shaping the design industry and making a strategic impact on the business landscape.
“Through increased integration of business and design, we are improving Singaporeans’ quality of life through greater awareness and usage of creative and beautiful yet functional things that are accessible and sustainable over the long term.
“The record level of entries we received for the SDA reinforces the rising stature of the Award and growing recognition of design as a key pillar of economic and social progress.”
All entries submitted for the SDA will be assessed by a selected panel of industry experts from Singapore, South Korea, Hong Kong, Japan, USA / India and Malaysia.
Winners for the three Awards will be crowned at the DesignS Gala Dinner and Awards Night on March 13, 2014 and recipients of the Awards will get a trophy. Their winning works will be featured in DBCS’ publications and digital / online platforms.
For more information, visit www.dbcsingapore.org and www.dbcsingapore.org/events-programmes/singapore-design-awards/.
