Attending the iF Awards ceremony in Germany was a memorable experience—much more than just an awards event. The day kicked off early and was packed with chances to connect with fellow award-winning designers, architects, and manufacturers. It carried on well past midnight, filled with celebrations, photos, and new friendships.
The next day, I joined the iF Trend Conference, and I have to say, the quality and depth of the presentations really caught me off guard—in a good way. Shane Griffin, a director and visual artist, shared some stunning visuals, while Martha Tsigkari from Foster + Partners introduced one of the first AI applications in architecture that actually felt meaningful—not just a gimmick. Then there was Tey Bannerman, a total standout. He works at McKinsey and brought a lively, engaging perspective, sharing sharp insights into business trends and what Gen Z designers care about most. Top of their list? Flexibility—in how they work and how they shape their time.
To round it all off, Berlin was the perfect setting. The weather was great, and as a first-time visitor, I got to soak in the city’s rich history and enjoy a bit of downtime.
Of all the award ceremonies I’ve attended, the iF Awards stands out—not just for its commercial weight, but for how it sparks fresh ideas and real connections.
