For over a decade, Aidin Ardjomandi has played a profoundly significant role in shaping global design through his active and influential service as a judge in some of the world’s most prestigious and highly regarded competitions. His professional journey in design judging began with the internationally renowned A’ Design Awards in Italy—an important milestone that marked the start of a long and distinguished career in assessing and recognizing excellence in design. Over the years, he has consistently brought a sharp eye for innovation, combined with a deep respect for aesthetics, to a broad spectrum of competitions, significantly influencing both design practice and the recognition of creativity across various disciplines.
With extensive experience spanning product design, lighting design, and the broader creative industries, Ardjomandi has not only evaluated countless design entries but has also contributed actively to the evolution of contemporary design trends. His influence extends beyond the jury panel, reaching into academia, media, and global design collaborations. As a dedicated professor at Pars University of Art and Architecture and the marketing manager at Qatar’s prestigious Istituto di Moda Burgo, he is deeply committed to educating and nurturing the next generation of designers. His role in education goes far beyond teaching technical skills—he encourages students to develop critical and creative thinking, which is essential for success in today’s dynamic design landscape. Additionally, as the editorial manager of Designooor Magazine and the global relations manager for the Azerbaijan Design Awards, he is a driving force in fostering international discourse on design innovation.
In this exclusive interview, Ardjomandi reflects on his decade-long experience as a juror, sharing insights on the evolution of design competitions and the critical role of evaluation in shaping future creativity.
Art Fasad: “How has judging over 70 design awards impacted your perspective on global design trends?”
Aidin Ardjomandi: Judging such a diverse range of design awards has given me a unique perspective on how design evolves across cultures, industries, and time. I have witnessed firsthand the shift in trends—from the dominance of minimalism to the resurgence of craftsmanship, from tech-driven solutions to more human-centered approaches. Most importantly, universal challenges such as sustainability and diversity have pushed designers to go beyond aesthetics, focusing on solutions that are not only visually compelling but also meaningful and responsible.
“What qualities, beyond appearance, do you look for in a successful design?”
Beyond aesthetics, I always look for a compelling story and a clear intention. A truly impactful design is one that communicates something deeper—whether it’s solving a real-world problem, evoking emotion, or challenging conventional thinking. Functionality, sustainability, and a certain resonance that connects with people on a visceral level are key factors that elevate a design beyond mere visual appeal.
“How do you balance cultural diversity with objective evaluation in global design competitions?”
Cultural diversity is a powerful and essential factor in fair judgment. While universal design principles exist—such as ergonomics, usability, and innovation—each design solution must be understood within its cultural context. What works well in one region may not be relevant in another. Recognizing these nuances allows for a more informed and objective assessment. The best approach is to embrace both global adaptability and local authenticity, rather than imposing a single design standard on all entries.
“What emerging design philosophies or technologies excite you for the next decade?”
I am particularly intrigued by AI-driven design, biomimicry, and circular design methodologies. AI is transforming design and prototyping, enabling unprecedented levels of customization and efficiency. Biomimicry—drawing inspiration from nature’s time-tested solutions—is offering innovative and sustainable alternatives to traditional methods. Meanwhile, circular design, which focuses on creating products that are reusable, repairable, or recyclable, is shifting the mindset of both designers and consumers. These approaches are redefining the designer’s role in shaping a more sustainable and intelligent future.
“As an educator, how do you incorporate your jury experience into teaching?”
My experience as a juror provides me with valuable insights that I share with my students to help them understand what makes a design successful at an international level. I emphasize the importance of storytelling in design, developing strong concepts, and ensuring that their work meets global standards. Most importantly, I teach them critical thinking. Observing how a jury deliberates over design entries helps students become more analytical when evaluating their own work. I want them to see design not just as a technical skill, but as a strategic discipline where every decision has purpose and impact.
“Can you recall a particularly unexpected or vivid moment in your decade of judging?”
One of the most memorable moments for me was encountering a project that, at first glance, seemed deceptively simple, yet revealed profound depth upon closer examination. The product itself was small in scale but addressed a significant problem with remarkable elegance and efficiency. That experience reinforced my belief that great design is not about complexity—it’s about clarity of purpose and intelligent simplicity.
“How has your definition of ‘design excellence’ evolved over the last ten years?”
A decade ago, I might have prioritized beauty and innovation as the primary indicators of design excellence. However, over time, I have come to value responsibility, longevity, and emotional depth just as much. A truly outstanding design is not only innovative—it is also sustainable, durable, and meaningful to those who interact with it. Today, I believe that design excellence is about creating solutions that are not only visually striking but also ethically and functionally sound.
“What responsibilities do designers have in addressing today’s social and environmental challenges?”
Designers are problem solvers, and their role extends far beyond aesthetics. We have a responsibility to tackle issues like sustainability, ethical manufacturing, and inclusivity in every project we take on. Design has the power to influence behavior, shape policies, and drive positive change. Whether it’s reducing waste, designing for accessibility, or addressing pressing social issues, every designer has a duty to contribute to a more responsible and balanced future.
