Emerging Australian Design

One of the highlights of our recent visit to the Decor + Design Show in Melbourne was, once again, the VIVID Emerging Designer Awards exhibition. Every year, this inspiring showcase reminds us that the future of Australian design is in very capable hands. The creativity, innovation and craftsmanship on display never fail to impress, and it's exciting to see the next generation of designers bringing fresh ideas to our industry.

All the images from VIVID 2026 © James Treble

As Australia's longest-running competition dedicated to emerging furniture, lighting and object designers, the VIVID Emerging Designer Awards provide an invaluable platform for students and designers in the first five years of their professional practice. Finalists are selected by a panel of respected industry leaders before earning the opportunity to exhibit their work at Decor + Design, placing their designs before manufacturers, retailers, architects, interior designers and the wider design community. The competition celebrates originality, thoughtful material selection, innovation and exceptional craftsmanship, while helping launch the careers of many of Australia's leading contemporary designers.

What many visitors don't see is the enormous amount of work that goes into each entry. Designers are asked not only to create a beautifully resolved piece, but also to communicate the story behind it, explain their design process, justify their material choices and present their work professionally through photography and exhibition. It's a process that reflects the realities of professional practice, where great design must also be clearly communicated.

Supporting emerging Australian designers is an investment in the future of our creative industries. Behind every piece are countless hours of sketching, prototyping, refining, testing and problem-solving. Many of the works on display blur the line between functional design and sculpture, demonstrating not only technical skill but also a thoughtful response to sustainability, manufacturing and the way we live.

Walking through this year's exhibition, we found ourselves stopping at almost every display. Each designer approached their brief from a completely different perspective, yet all shared the same passion for creating something meaningful, beautifully crafted and genuinely original. It was a wonderful reminder that great design isn't just about aesthetics. It's about curiosity, persistence and the courage to bring a new idea into the world.

We hope these photographs inspire you as much as the exhibition inspired us, and perhaps encourage you to support the talented Australian designers who are shaping the future of our industry. Find out more at https://decordesignshow.com.au/vivid-emerging-designer-awards/

James Treble is an ambassador for Planet Ark and firmly believes in sensible purchasing, recycling and creative re-purposing. James has three decades of accumulated experience in the Building Industry, Real Estate and Interior Design and regularly shares his knowledge and experience in adding value to properties through effective design & styling. Watch his free videos on YouTube, and follow him on Facebook and Instagram for more free information.