ABOUT THE AWARDS

HISTORY

Founded 23 years ago to champion design excellence and elevate Northern voices on a national stage, the Awards have grown into a prestigious, unmissable event in the design calendar. Each year, we bring together the brightest architects, designers, developers, and creatives to share their work, connect with peers and be recognised by an esteemed judging panel of industry leaders.

What makes the Northern Design Awards unique? It’s not just the calibre of entries or the quality of the judges; it’s the spirit. We’re passionate about celebrating design that changes how people live, work, and experience the world around them. Whether you're a boutique firm or an established practice, this is your chance to shine.

WHY ENTER?

Entering the Northern Design Awards is more than a chance to win; it's a powerful opportunity to elevate your brand. Finalists and winners gain prestige, media exposure and third-party validation that builds trust with clients. An award can boost your profile, attract new business, strengthen your team’s morale, and set you apart in an increasingly competitive market. It’s also a chance to showcase your work to a respected panel of industry leaders and be recognised among the very best in Northern design.

Built for Connection

Great design doesn’t happen in isolation and neither does great business. The Northern Design Awards brings together a vibrant community of creative minds. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to network, collaborate, and build lasting relationships with industry leaders, potential clients and like-minded professionals. Whether it’s over the extended drinks reception, at your table at dinner, or during the awards ceremony itself, we create a space where valuable connections are made and where future projects often begin.

ELIGIBILITY

The Northern Design Awards are open to architects, interior designers, property developers, landscape designers, and creative professionals based in the North of the UK, from the Midlands to Scotland. The entering business must be in this area; the project you submit can be anywhere.

Eligible projects must have been completed from January 2023 to this year’s deadline date of Friday 3 October and must not have been previously submitted to the Northern Design Awards.

If you are unsure if you qualify or if you want to enter but don’t see a category to suit your business - please get in touch.

KEY DATES 2025

• Entry deadline: Friday 3 October 2025

• Finalists announced: Friday 17 October 2025

• Event date: Thursday 13 November 2025