Surface Design Awards

Surface Design Awards has been an extension of the Surface Design brand for 14 years. The Awards celebrates excellence in the innovation and use of surfaces across the built environment, the judges and team were delighted by the exceptional level of quality entries this year and we cannot wait to open the awards for 2026. 

Surface Design Awards 2026 will be an evening event, on Wednesday 4 February 2026 at 6:00pm, and will be hosted by Hamish Kilburn. If you have registered to attend Surface Design Show, your ticket will grant you access to the Awards. (Priority access will be given to the Awards Sponsors, Judges and Finalists).  

Please note: Entries for the Surface Design Awards are now closed.

2026 Categories (opens in a new tab)
2026 Judges (opens in a new tab)
Lighting
Lighting

Recognising the most creative and effective integration of surface materials and lighting to elevate spatial experience. 

Project Categories Criteria: Creative Use and Integration of Surface Materials, Functionality and User Experience, Innovation and Concept Originality, Material Suitability and Execution, Sustainability and Social/Environmental Impact

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Hospitality
Hospitality

Celebrating outstanding surface design within hotels, restaurants, bars, or leisure environments that enhance guest experience. 

Project Categories Criteria: Creative Use and Integration of Surface Materials, Functionality and User Experience, Innovation and Concept Originality, Material Suitability and Execution, Sustainability and Social/Environmental Impact.

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Public Realm
Public Realm

Recognising surface design excellence in shared or civic spaces, including transport hubs, museums, educational institutions, and public infrastructure. 

Project Categories Criteria: Creative Use and Integration of Surface Materials, Functionality and User Experience, Innovation and Concept Originality, Material Suitability and Execution, Sustainability and Social/Environmental Impact.

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Façades
Façades

Honouring excellence in the design and materiality of external building façades that demonstrate performance and visual impact. 

Project Categories Criteria: Creative Use and Integration of Surface Materials, Functionality and User Experience, Innovation and Concept Originality, Material Suitability and Execution, Sustainability and Social/Environmental Impact.

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Regenerative Design
Regenerative Design

Recognising projects where surface design actively contributes to environmental and social regeneration through innovation, stewardship, and long-term impact.

Project Categories Criteria: Creative Use and Integration of Surface Materials, Functionality and User Experience, Innovation and Concept Originality, Material Suitability and Execution, Sustainability and Social/Environmental Impact.

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Innovation
Innovation

Highlighting breakthrough surface materials, finishes, or technologies that push design boundaries.

Product Categories Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

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Digital Integration
Digital Integration

Recognising surface products that incorporate digital technology, interactivity, or smart systems to enhance functionality or user experience. 

Product Categories Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

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Sustainability
Sustainability

Recognising products that prioritise responsible sourcing, low-impact production, and circular design principles. 

Product Categories Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

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Material Transformation
Material Transformation

Awarding products that repurpose waste, use bio-based components, or introduce radical approaches to material innovation. 

Product Categories Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

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Heritage & Craft
Heritage & Craft

Honouring surface products that preserve or reinterpret traditional craft techniques or cultural heritage through contemporary design. 

Product Categories Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

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Emerging Talent
Emerging Talent

Championing rising designers or studios whose work with surfaces shows exceptional promise and originality. 

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Please email thea.sainsbury@montogomerygroup.com with any enquiries.

Interested in Sponsoring an Awards Category? Download our Sponsorship Opportunities or Contact our Team.