We get thousands of FRAME Awards submissions, and most of them are pretty brilliant. It can be tough to pick those that stand above the rest. But with a few key things in mind, we’re confident any project can shoot straight to the top. Great design is a must, of course, but a strategic approach to submission could give you the edge you need. Check out our six essential tips – straight from the horse’s mouth – to maximize your chances of winning one of spatial and product design’s most prestigious accolades in 2025.
The first deadline is just around the corner. Submit your project by 13 May, as prices will increase. Make the most of the current rate.
1. One goal, four criteria
The foundation of every successful FRAME Awards submission lies in thoroughly addressing the four key criteria: Eco-Social Impact, Innovation, Creativity and Functionality. Structure your submission so it highlights exactly how your project excels in each area. Be explicit about the ‘what’, the ‘why’ and the ‘how’ of your design and your process. FRAME Awards judges are on the hunt for thoughtful explanations that connect your design decisions to these core criteria.
2. Worth a thousand words
As wordsmiths, we believe in the power of putting pen to paper, but visuals tell a story that words cannot. Provide high-resolution photography that showcases your space from multiple angles, including people using the environment when possible – human-centric design is something judges look for. Equally important are floor plans, which give jurors (many of whom are established architects and designers) critical context about spatial relationships, scale and flow. A complete and comprehensive visual package will allow FRAME Awards judges to fully understand your project's complexity and execution.
3. The devil is in the details
The things you notice may not be those the judges do, so don’t assume they’ll notice the subtleties of your project that make it special. Be explicit about your project’s thoughtful details, innovative materials, custom elements and unique solutions. Wherever possible, include supporting information like completion date, location, budget constraints and client brief summary. This will give judges context and clarity and help separate winning entries from good ones.
4. Consider your categories carefully
In 2025, it's not uncommon to encounter spaces that blur traditional typologies. Flower shops are also cafés. High-end gyms have treatment rooms for cosmetic tweakments. Think strategically about which category is truly best to showcase your project's strengths. Want to double your chances? You can submit the same project to multiple categories. Just be sure you tailor those submissions to highlight the most relevant details for each category.
5. Have a video? Include it
Video content has become increasingly useful to communicate the impact of spatial experiences. Even a simple walkthrough can convey atmosphere and lighting conditions, transitions between spaces and how people interact with a design. A quick video – even one under two minutes – can amplify your submission, helping bring it to life for the judges.
6. Think big picture
Designing small and thinking nimbly is certainly impressive. In fact, our February winner was an apartment that slid in under 7 sq-m. But the most compelling submissions connect individual projects to larger industry movements. Ruminate on how your design responds to global shifts in wellness practices, hybrid work models, inclusive design principles or sustainability innovations. Then articulate it. FRAME Awards judges value projects that are forward-thinking and make meaningful contributions to the evolution of spatial design. Don't only focus on what you created; think about what your project says about the future of living, working, dining or human experience.
While there's no guarantee of winning, if you follow these six tips, you’ll be well placed for success. The final date to submit your work is 17 June, but don't miss your chance to submit at a lower rate by 13 May. Good luck!
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Have questions about submitting or in need of support? Send us an email on awards@frameweb.com.
