Architecture and Interior Design students worldwide are being invited to rethink the future of spaces, communities, and culture as the AYDA Awards officially starts its new season.
Now on its 18th year, the competition formerly known as the Asia Young Designer Awards (AYDA) returns with the theme “Converge: Embracing Hyperlocal.” The 2026 theme reflects a growing global shift in design thinking, where the world becomes increasingly interconnected. “Converge” highlights the intersection of cultures, technologies, and ideas, while “Embracing Hyperlocal” underscores the importance of grounding innovation in the unique identity of specific communities.
In rapidly urbanizing contexts such as the Philippines, hyperlocal design takes on heightened relevance. It encourages architects and interior designers to draw from indigenous materials, traditional construction techniques, and cultural narratives that are often overshadowed by modern development.
From adaptive reuse of heritage structures in historic Manila districts to community-centered housing solutions in disaster-prone areas, hyperlocal design offers a framework for creating spaces that are both functional and deeply rooted in place.
Rather than treating globalization as a force that standardizes design, AYDA 2026 positions it as an opportunity for convergence — where global ideas are reinterpreted through local lenses. This approach empowers emerging designers to respond more meaningfully to pressing challenges such as climate resilience, urban density, and cultural preservation.
AYDA continues expanding its global design community
Photo shows (from left) IDr. Brigid Sarmiento of Council of Interior Design Educators (CIDE); IDr. Ivy Almario of the Philippine Institute of Interior Designers (PIID); IDr. Mikee Yusay, Head Judge, Interior Design Category; Mr. Chen Lee Siong, General Manager, Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc.; Ar. Cathy Saldaña, Head Judge, Architectural Category; Ar. Jonathan Manalad of the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP); and Ar. Jean Cornejo of the Philippine Architecture Schools Association (PhilASA).
Organized by Nippon Paint, the international design competition encourages Architecture and Interior design students to develop solutions rooted in local identity, cultural heritage, and community-driven innovation — while addressing the evolving needs of a rapidly connected world.
At a time when ideas move globally in seconds, and design trends increasingly overlap across borders, AYDA 2026 is encouraging young creatives to rediscover the value of local wisdom, traditions, and materials.
Participants are challenged to design spaces and experiences that strengthen communities, celebrate heritage, and reimagine how local culture can shape future-ready environments. Since launching in 2008, AYDA has grown into one of Asia’s most recognized design platforms, attracting more than 50,000 entries from over 1,300 tertiary institutions across 20 geographical locations worldwide.
Beyond the competition itself, AYDA has become a major talent development platform for emerging designers through mentorships, workshops, networking sessions, and cross-learning opportunities with leading industry professionals.
The program has also built a strong alumni network of socially conscious designers focused on combining creativity with real-world impact.
For Filipino architecture and design students, the theme resonates strongly with ongoing conversations in the local industry about sustainable urban development and culturally responsive design. With the Philippines facing increasing pressure from rapid city expansion and climate-related risks, the call for hyperlocal innovation highlights the role of young designers in shaping spaces that are not only globally competitive but also deeply responsive to Filipino communities and environments.
Chen Lee Siong, General Manager of Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc.
“Design today is no longer just about creating beautiful spaces. Young designers are being challenged to solve real problems, strengthen communities, and create environments that people can genuinely connect with,” said Chen Lee Siong, General Manager of Nippon Paint (Coatings) Philippines, Inc.
“With AYDA 2026, we want to encourage students to embrace local identity and culture while thinking boldly about the future. Some of the most powerful design ideas come from understanding the communities around us,” he added.
Harvard Prize for international winners
Judges in Architectural Design Category
One of the biggest highlights of AYDA Awards 2026 is the highly coveted “Harvard Prize,” awarded to the International Gold Winners named as the AYDA Designer of the Year for both the Architecture and Interior Design categories.
The prize includes a fully sponsored three-week Design Discovery Program at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design (GSD) in the United States. Valued at up to USD 10,000, the immersive learning experience covers tuition fees, airfare, accommodation, and visa support, giving winners direct exposure to one of the world’s leading design institutions.
The Harvard Prize serves as AYDA’s flagship international opportunity, allowing young designers to deepen their design thinking, collaborate with global peers, and gain first-hand insights into advanced spatial design practices.
Cash awards, internships, and global exposure
AYDA PH 2025 Gold Winners
Apart from the Harvard Prize, AYDA Awards 2026 will also recognize outstanding student work through multiple awards and opportunities.
Gold and Silver awardees will receive cash prizes and internship opportunities, while Honorary Mention winners and special category recipients will also receive monetary rewards.
Additional recognitions include:
- Nippon Paint Colour Award
- Best Sustainable Design
- Best Design Impact
Each special award comes with a USD 1,000 cash prize. Mentors of winning students will also gain access to the Design Discovery Virtual (DDV) Program conducted by Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design.
In the Philippines, AYDA offers prestigious prizes that recognize outstanding Architecture and Interior Design students. Gold Award winners in each category receive a cash prize of ₱50,000. Beyond the monetary rewards, AYDA serves as a gateway to international exposure, mentorship, networking opportunities, and the chance to represent the Philippines at the AYDA International Awards, making it one of the most sought-after design competitions for young Filipino design students.
Silver Award winners receive ₱30,000 in cash, while eight finalists are awarded ₱10,000 each for their exceptional entries. Special recognitions such as Best Colour Choice and Best Green Innovation also come with cash prizes of ₱10,000.
AYDA Awards Philippines entries officially open in June
Nippon Paint is encouraging eligible architecture and interior design students worldwide to participate and become part of AYDA’s growing global design community.
Interested participants may learn more through the official AYDA Awards Philippines Facebook page. Past sessions of the AYDA Awards are also available on AYDA’s YouTube channel.
