Athens, Greece
Athens glowed with creative energy on March 20 as the Good Design and Green Good Design Awards Ceremony and Gala/Dinner lit up the Secret Roof Garden at Divani Palace Acropolis, right at the foot of the Acropolis.
Organized by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design alongside the European Centre for Architecture Art Design and Urban Studies, the gala drew designers, architects, and industry leaders from across the globe.
This event not only honored top achievements but also launched a major exhibition, continuing a legacy that began in 1950—one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious design honors.
Founded in Chicago in 1950 by Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, this year is the 76thAnniversary of the Awards.
The evening buzzed with diversity, spotlighting winners in fields from industrial design and mobility to architecture and sustainable tech.
Standouts included companies like Montex Swiss AG for innovative medical devices, BRP Design & Innovation team for electric mobility solutions, Volvo cars for modern and safe transportation, and Studio Gang for green architectural projects, all underscoring design’s push toward environmental responsibility and progress.
Winners took the stage amid applause, while key speakers added depth.
Mr. Ioannis Karalias, Vice President of The Chicago Athenaeum and President of the European Centre, and Ms. Iro Nikolakea, Head of Production for Exhibitions and Cultural Events at the National Museum of Contemporary Art (EMST), delivered remarks tying the awards to broader cultural impact.
Earlier that day, the official exhibition opened at The European Centre–Contemporary Space Athens (74 Mitropoleos Street, Plaka).
Spanning three floors, it showcases award-winning products, graphics, and eco-friendly designs—from cutting-edge furniture and automobiles to medical equipment. Exhibitors include Franke for sustainable kitchen furniture, Ferrari spa, and more others for innovative materials.
The gala blended recognition with inspiration, capturing design’s collaborative spirit amid today’s challenges.
Catch the Good Design Show and Green Good Design Show until April 19, 2026, with free public admission and guided group tours by appointment.
Please note that the deadline for this year’s submission for Good Design is June 1 .
