Entries to the Mercedes-Benz Design Award have now closed. Meet our four finalists John, Dan, Rene and Tom. The winner will be announced in December.
The Mercedes-Benz Design Award is back for its third year, giving another person the opportunity for their winning design to be manufactured by one of Australia’s leading local design retailers. This year we’re looking for a design that will enhance the dining experience – either indoors or out.
Last year’s winning designer Nancy Ji achieved great success with her unique design, the Lily Tray Table – now a staple of the Tait range. Since winning the award, Ji has been taken on by 2016 Design Award partner Tait, as a contracted designer on their roster and has sold many of her tables.
“We love the table and are excited about having it in the collection ongoing,” says Gordon Tait, creative director of Tait.
This year will be the biggest award yet. Instead of working with one mentor, the winner will receive design mentorship from four design leaders.
Local high-end furniture retailer Cult Design will manufacture and stock the winning design. “I’m incredibly passionate about fostering Australian design,” says Richard Munao, founder and managing director of Cult Design. “The opportunity to work with other brands at the top of their game to recognise emerging talent is very exciting.”
Esteemed local industrial designer Adam Goodrum, interior architect George Livissianis and Senior Manager, Product and Strategy at Mercedes-Benz Cars André Dutkowski will also mentor the winning designer on their journey.
“We want to empower designers and give them a platform,” says Dutkowski of the award’s mission. “I hope we can also add a global perspective to it, rather than just looking at something for the Australian market.”
Not only will the winner receive mentorship from local design leaders, they’ll also be flown to Germany, to receive some international design inspiration. The winner will visit the Mercedes-Benz Museum, an architectural marvel that houses 160 vehicles and exhibits showcasing 130 years of design innovation, as well as meet members of the Mercedes-Benz design team.
Mercedes-Benz, a company with a proud design heritage, is excited about the opportunity to uncover new innovative design talent. “I’m very much looking forward to some interesting innovative designs,” says Dutkowski.
The winner of the Mercedes-Benz Design Award by Broadsheet will receive:
- Their design prototyped, manufactured and sold by Cult Design
- Mentorship from Australia's design leaders
- A trip for two to Germany
This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with Mercedes-Benz. Learn more about the Mercedes-Benz Design Award by Broadsheet and the latest Mercedes-Benz designs.
