Last year saw the debut of Wallpaper’s Smart Space Awards, a new way to celebrate the very best in domestic design and technology. It was a year of reacquainting ourselves with our homes, whether we liked it or not, with the knock-on effect of a renewed focus on the devices, products, and services that surround us.
Good design, forward-thinking innovation, and effortless style is nothing without sustainability, quality, and longevity. A space isn’t so smart if it’s just a holding room for an endless parade of constantly updated objects. Last year’s winners rose to our challenge of seeking out ideas that inspire and products that last, banishing planned obsolescence and the infinite upgrade path.
Winners of the 2021 Wallpaper* Smart Space Awards. at Future Studios for Wallpaper*
The inaugural Smart Space Awards showcased everything from e-bikes to air purifiers, office furniture, and sleek speakers. The judges – architect Tosin Oshinowo of Nigerian practice CM Design Atelier, the designer and artist Yuri Suzuki, Harrods’ retail manager Veronica Forin, Wallpaper* editor-in-chief Sarah Douglas, and Wallpaper* transport & technology editor Jonathan Bell – explored a raft of submissions, whittling them down to those that had the most potential for positive impact on their user, through design, technology, craft, and a sustainable ethos.
Wallpaper* Smart Space Awards 2022: need to know
A Wallpaper* Smart Space Award is more than just an industry accolade; it’s a seal of approval for design that does its job and makes the world a better place. For 2022, Wallpaper* has added a new award reflecting our return to the public realm, celebrating the smartest use of retail space.
As before, we’ll be creating a bespoke edit of the award-winning products and services for a special feature in the print edition of Wallpaper*, as well as in-depth coverage on our digital platforms and across social media channels. This year’s judges will include some of last year’s winning design teams: Neri & Hu, awarded in 2021 for their ‘Everyday’ lamps for Stellar Works; and Kim Colin from Industrial Facility, which was recognised last year for its ‘OE1’ workspace collection for Herman Miller, alongside French designer Ora Ïto.
‘Everyday’ lamp by Neri & Hu for Stellar Works. at Future Studios for Wallpaper*
Who can enter?
The Wallpaper* Smart Space Awards 2022 is an open call to everyone from big tech brands to boutique makers. We’re actively seeking start-ups and innovators, young designers and new thinkers. Please nominate the stuff that beautifies, enhances, and improves the spaces that surround us, making our lives more efficient, more elegant, and better in every way.
How to enter
Find full details and nominate your product at futureevents.uk/smartspaceawards2022. Closing date: 8 August 2022.
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