Design in Ten

Design in Ten is an exciting new initiative jointly launched by Sky Design Awards and Merci Magazine.

It invites 50 shortlisted finalists to participate in a 5–10 minute live pitch and editorial presentation, where each designer shares their shortlisted project design philosophy, narrative, and business vision directly with the judging panel and editorial team.

Design in Ten bridges design recognition and tangible opportunities by connecting award-winning ideas with media exposure, industry partnerships, and global visibility.

Design in Ten — Introduction

Design in Ten bridges the gap between design recognition and real opportunities by connecting award-winning ideas with media exposure, industry partnerships, and global visibility.

The programme invites and selected 50 shortlisted finalists to participate in an exclusive live pitch and editorial presentation, providing a focused 5–10 minute session to articulate their shortlisted project in design philosophy, narrative, business vision, and brand voice directly to the judging panel and editorial team.

Rather than following a conventional format, Design in Ten values clarity, coherence, and insight. Its intentionally brief yet highly focused structure provides a unique window to assess whether a designer can genuinely communicate the depth of their thinking.
In just ten minutes, the panel can discern:

• The strength of the idea

• The maturity of the narrative

• The designer’s ability to position their work

• and whether the concept carries potential for further development

This is the core of Design in Ten: Transforming designers from “award recipients” to “recognized voices” with momentum, exposure, and opportunity.

At Design in Ten, recognition is only the entry point. The true value lies in a designer’s ability to express their vision with intention and confidence — the moment when storytelling opens the door to:

• Editorial features

• In-depth interviews

• Exhibitions

• Introductions to brands included suppliers and business connections and collaborations

• Meaningful industry connections with our Judges

Design in Ten turns visibility into possibility, enabling great ideas not only to be seen, but also to find new directions and opportunities for growth.

How to Apply?

1. Indicate Your Interest During Submission

When completing the Sky Design Awards application form, simply select “Yes” or “No” under the Design in Ten participation option.
Expressing your interest does not guarantee selection; it simply confirms your willingness to participate if you are shortlisted.

2. Finalists Will Receive an Official Invitation

After the judging process, up to 50 finalists will be selected for Design in Ten.
Only those who have indicated “Yes” will be considered for participation.
Selected participants will receive an official invitation one day before the Sky Design Awards ceremony.

3. Participation Fee

Design in Ten is a specialized opportunity that supports visibility, editorial development, and industry connections.
A separate participation fee of USD 400 will be required for finalists who join this program.
Details and payment instructions will be provided in the invitation email.

4. Final Presentation

Selected designers will take part in a 5–10 minute live pitching and editorial session, presenting their design philosophy, narrative, and business vision directly to the judging panel and editorial team.