Architect Sibylla Hartel and designer Charlot Magayi are among the new judges for the upcoming Dezeen Awards 2026, signaling a continued emphasis on sustainability and innovation in architecture and design. With the entry deadline looming on May 27, 2026, industry professionals are encouraged to submit their work to be evaluated by this esteemed panel, now enhanced by expertise in landscape architecture and clean energy solutions.
What Happened
The Dezeen Awards 2026 has announced the addition of five new judges to its panel, including Sibylla Hartel, a partner at the renowned British landscape architecture firm Gustafson Porter + Bowman, and Charlot Magayi, the CEO of Mukuru Clean Stoves. Hartel, known for her work on projects like Taikoo Place in Hong Kong and a planted tower in the City of London, brings her extensive botanical expertise and passion for creating sustainable landscapes to the architecture jury. Meanwhile, Magayi, a celebrated innovator in clean energy, joins the design jury. Her social enterprise has distributed over 700,000 clean cookstoves and developed a patented mosquito-repellent fuel, earning her accolades such as the Earthshot Prize in 2022.
The interior design panel will feature Alexy Kos and Che Huang, co-founders of Child Studio, whose work emphasizes a blend of architectural heritage and modernity in residential and hospitality settings. Todd Bracher, a prominent figure in industrial design and creative director of Humanscale, will also serve on the design jury, bringing his extensive experience in ergonomic furniture design.
Why It Matters for the AECM Industry
The inclusion of judges like Hartel and Magayi highlights the growing emphasis on sustainability and innovative solutions in the AECM industry. Hartel's focus on resilient and beautiful landscapes aligns with the increasing demand for sustainable urban environments, while Magayi's work addresses critical issues of energy poverty and public health. These themes resonate deeply with current industry trends, where environmental impact and resource efficiency are paramount. Furthermore, the partnership between Dezeen Awards and Trimble underscores the role of technology in advancing design practices, providing architects and engineers with tools to enhance productivity and creativity.
What's Next
With the entry deadline set for May 27, 2026, architects, interior designers, and product designers have a limited window to showcase their projects to this influential panel. The awarding process will scrutinize submissions across 49 categories, offering a comprehensive platform for industry recognition. Professionals should watch for announcements regarding shortlisted projects and prepare for the potential impact of these awards on their portfolios and future projects. As Dezeen Awards continues to set benchmarks for excellence in design, the outcomes will likely influence trends and practices within the industry.
Source: https://www.dezeen.com/2026/05/18/sibylla-hartel-charlot-magayi-dezeen-awards-2026-judges/. Read the original story ->
