Discover this year’s Launch Pad designers

The third edition of the Launch Pad program returns to WantedDesign this year with an unparalleled group of 33 international design studios and independent designers competing to win the top prize and recognition from leaders across the industry.
Launch Pad is a special segment of WantedDesign each year where up and coming designers from around the world showcase their new products and connect with potential manufacturers, retailers, or distributors. Much like the world famous Satellite at the Salone del Mobile, Launch Pad seeks to match innovative products with the right markets, leading to successful launches for a range of captivating designs.
This year’s event is presented in partnership with Design Milk and supported by Design Within Reach, who will both participate in the award selection for the second consecutive.
“Creating the next generation of design begins with supporting designers, and we’re thrilled to be a partner for the 2016 WantedDesign Launch Pad,” says DWR CEO John Edelman. “We can’t wait to see this year’s innovative design, and we encourage everyone to come out to WantedDesign and get involved.” More

Icelandic designer and RISD grad Kjartan Oskarsson took home the 2015 grand prize award, which includes free participation in this year’s WantedDesign. His two lamp concepts, HALO and Forester, stood out among the 23 other competitors for their originality and modernity.

“Being a part of WantedDesign Launch Pad 2015 was a great experience,” said Oskarsson. “There I was surrounded by talented people, and you could feel the creative energy in the air. I was truly honored and humbled to be the one chosen by the jury as the Launch Pad winner and it gave me the opportunity to present my work both in the US and in Europe.”

Begum Cana Ozgur

A jury of design professionals, led by Design Milk Founder and Executive Editor Jaime Derringer, will meet with each designer or design studio and award the top prize to a standout product that meets the highest levels of quality among the 33 competitors. The public will also be invited to vote online for their favorite designer starting April 1st.

Jury members: Marva Griffin Wilshire, Salone del Mobile, Milano, Founder and Curator SaloneSatellite, International Press Director; Giulio Cappellini, Creative Director, Capellini and Noah Schwarz, Director of Merchandising, Design Within Reach.

Discover the 33 launch-pad designers, here.

WantedDesign Launch Pad program, presented by Design Milk and Design Within Reach