All Project Categories will be judged on the following 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.

Lighting

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

Hospitality 

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

Public Realm 

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

Façades 

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

Regenerative Design 

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

All Product Categories will be judged on the following Criteria: Design Originality and Innovation, Sustainability and Lifecycle Impact, Technical Performance, Craftsmanship and Materiality, Market Relevance and User Benefit.

Innovation 

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

Sustainability 

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

Material Transformation 

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

Heritage & Craft 

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

Digital Integration 

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

Emerging Talent
This award is INVITE ONLY and FREE OF CHARGE. Student projects and universities will be invited to enter their projects. There will be a shortlist, as well as public voting for this award, an amazing opportunity to get your projects in front of A&D professionals. If you would like to enter this award, check your eligibility.

Supreme Winner
This award is not available to enter and the winner will be selected from the category winners by the judges. There will be no shortlist for this award. 

Outstanding Contribution
This award will be selected by Surface Design Show and given to a practice or studio that has made an 'Outstanding Contribution' to the industry. 

Please send any enquiries to thea.sainsbury@montgomerygroup.com

Interested in Sponsoring one of this years Categories? take a look at our Sponsorship Opportunities.