IIDA Student Design Competition 2025

The International Interior Design Association (IIDA) has opened entries for its 2025 Student Design Competition (SDC), showcasing innovative design ideas from interior design students worldwide. This annual competition provides emerging professionals an opportunity to display their talent and gain industry exposure.

Competition Brief

Participants are invited to design essential spaces within a new pediatric clinic in Denver, CO. Additionally, designs are requested for a new adult inpatient behavioral treatment facility in Denver, expected to open in late 2025. This facility will support behavioral care for adults 18+ and include areas such as:

• Lobby & Reception

• Patient and Exam Rooms

• Quiet and Milieu Spaces

• Therapy and Consultation Rooms

• Staff Areas and more

Designs should promote healing, wayfinding, and confidence-building, while creating a seamless, supportive environment for patients, families, and staff.

Key Design Considerations

• Family-focused areas

• Flexible, adaptable spaces

• Safety measures for all users

• Collaborative staff areas

• Acoustic and sensory interventions

• Therapeutic and positive distraction features

  
  

Judging Criteria

A jury of design professionals will evaluate submissions based on aesthetics, creativity, functionality, and how well each design meets the project’s unique requirements.

Awards

First, second, and third place winners will be selected based on innovation, coherence, impact, and fulfillment of design criteria.

Eligibility

Open to all undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled in interior design or architecture programs. Participants may enter individually or in teams of up to five.

Prizes

Total prize fund of nearly $5,000.

Entry Fees

• Individual Entries:

  • IIDA Members: $35

  • Non-members: $60

• Team Entries:

  • IIDA Members: $50 (at least one member must be an IIDA Student Member)

  • Non-members: $90