In recent years the question has often been asked, both from the design field and ourselves: who is DDA for? Who do we reach and, above all, who have we not (yet) reached? What is the value of an award and what are we praising? How can we maximise the enormous value of our design community and the people we work with? 

Both the design field and DDA are constantly evolving. That is why we are using 2024 as a year of reflection.

This means working with ten former winners or nominees in the Young Designers category. Interviews with these designers provide insight into their processes in recent years, where they are now, how they got here and how they are shaping the future. We also ask each of them to introduce one new young, talented designer. 

Alongside an online presence in various forms, we will present a total of twenty Young Designers from the past and present in an exhibition during Dutch Design Week 2024.

We are in the process of putting together two groups of Young Designers. As soon as the names have been finalised, we will introduce them on DDA’s website and social media channels. 

This year, the focus is on Young Designers from the past and present. We have asked ten former nominees and winners from the Young Design category to nominate one new young designer, who in their eyes makes relevant, interesting and/or impressive work. 

In this expo, we will present the 10+10 Young Designers based on five substantive topics. As in previous years, this exhibition will be open to visitors in Microlab at Strijp-S. 

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In 2024, we are therefore taking time for reflection. We will talk about DDA with those in the design field, partners, critics and other involved parties. Based on our findings, we will develop an appropriate form for DDA that best represents (the developments in) the design field. Collaborating with people from different target groups and backgrounds, we will work towards developing a new strategy for DDA. 

We will also take a good look around, both within our sector and further afield, with the aim of learning and positioning DDA in the best possible way. All the insights we gain will be brought together in a new strategy and concept for DDA that we can present for the future with conviction. 

As many interviews as possible will take place with (former) jury members, former participants and partners and critical voices within and outside our network. 

We will present the future of Dutch Design Awards and the interpretation of the awards this autumn. Follow the process on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn. 

DDA is committed to showcasing the best work in the design field, providing a platform for designers and driving the conversation about (the power of) design. We want to provide a relevant platform, where designers are recognised and new opportunities arise for them through participation.