Aspiring architects and interior designers in the Philippines, this is your chance to shine! Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc. has announced the official launch of the 2024 AYDA Awards, themed “Converge: Glocal Design Solutions.” This prestigious competition welcomes entries from Filipino design students, offering them the opportunity to showcase their talent on a global stage, hone their skills, and network with industry leaders.
This year’s theme challenges young designers to think critically about emerging trends and global issues. The focus lies on creating sustainable and resilient designs that address pressing societal needs while remaining grounded in local contexts. The competition explores three key areas:
- Social: How can design create spaces that foster community, promote safety, and optimize space usage?
- Urban Development: How can design contribute to the development of thriving communities without compromising their well-being?
- Environment: How can design integrate nature into built spaces and positively impact the environment?
More Than Just a Competition: A Platform for Growth
The AYDA Awards, now in its 16th year, represent Nippon Paint’s dedication to cultivating the next generation of design talent. With over 50,000 entries from across 19 countries, the awards have become a premier platform in Asia.
Beyond the competition aspect, AYDA provides participants with invaluable resources such as:
- Industry Knowledge: Gain first-hand exposure to the design industry through workshops and interactions with professionals.
- Personalized Coaching: Receive guidance from experienced mentors to develop competitive design projects.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Mentors gain the chance to participate in a three-week Design Discovery Program at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design (fully funded).
The AYDA Awards boast a strong track record of propelling young designers to success. Take Bnn Anjelo Tadeja and Maureen Abegail Mendoza, national winners in the 2023/2024 edition. Competing against top international talents, Tadeja (architecture student) and Mendoza (interior design student) impressed the judges with their innovative solutions:
- BILAG: From Scattered to Gathered Space for Sunbathed Grains: This project reimagines agricultural spaces using technological solutions for enhanced efficiency.
- KITA-KITA: A Resilient Community Center: This concept introduces smart infrastructure for building robust community spaces.
The AYDA Awards offer numerous accolades, including:
- AYDA Designer of the Year (Architecture & Interior Design)
- National Awards with varying prize values
- Immersive Learning Experience: A three-week Design Discovery Program at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design (fully funded)
- Silver and Gold Awards with cash prizes and internship opportunities
- Honorary Mention Awards with cash prizes
- Nippon Paint Colour Award (US$1,000)
- Best Sustainable Design Award (US$1,000)
- Best Design Impact Award (US$1,000)
National Gold Winners will represent the Philippines at the AYDA International Awards in 2025.
The AYDA Awards transcend typical competition, fostering a holistic development environment for aspiring designers. It’s a platform for collaboration, learning, and nurturing socially responsible design professionals.
Are you an architecture or interior design student in the Philippines? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! For more information, updates, and entry details, visit the official AYDA Philippines Facebook Page, the AYDA Awards website, or their social media pages. You can also access past sessions of the AYDA Awards on their YouTube channel.