The AYDA Awards 2023/2024 international finale, held from July 3-5 at ITC Grand Chola, Chennai, concluded with India’s Eromitha Ramesh and Suraj Ighe emerging as finalists. The event brought together national winners from 17 countries and regions.
Eromitha Ramesh, from R V College of Architecture, Bengaluru, and Suraj Ighe, from Academy of Architecture, Mumbai, impressed judges with their innovative designs in the Architecture and Interior Design categories, reflecting this year’s theme of CONVERGE: Championing Purposeful Designs.
The highlight of the event was the announcement of Lim Jeng Ying from Malaysia and Alifiah Azzahrah from Indonesia as AYDA Designers of the Year in the Architectural and Interior Design categories. They won the chance to attend the June 2025 cohort of Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design’s Design Discovery Program, a fully funded opportunity worth up to USD 10,000.
“AYDA Awards is not just about competing but about personal growth, helping us develop our potential and presentation skills,” said Eromitha Ramesh.
“Participating in the AYDA Awards has shaped my skills and fostered connections with fellow creatives,” added Suraj Ighe.
Ms. Gladys Goh, President of Nippon Paint Marine Coating Co. Ltd, congratulated the finalists. “Their dedication showcases their talent and passion for design. We look forward to seeing them drive innovation in their communities.”
Judges praised Nippon Paint’s commitment to nurturing young designers. “AYDA Awards recognises excellence and invests in the future of purposeful design,” said Nina Bailon-Arce, an AYDA judge.
Santi Alaysius, another judge, highlighted the competition’s role in showcasing talent and innovation. “AYDA Awards provides a space for emerging talents to shine,” he said.
The AYDA Awards, launched in 2008 by Nippon Paint, has become a premier accolade in the architecture and interior design industry, with over 59,000 entries from 1,200 institutions across 20 countries. The 2023/2024 edition received over 6,000 submissions.
The upcoming AYDA Awards 2024/2025 theme, CONVERGE: Glocal Design Solutions, will focus on innovative designs addressing global challenges in social, urban development, and the environment.
The AYDA Awards, formerly known as the Asia Young Designer Awards, aims to cultivate the next generation of architectural and interior design talents globally. It facilitates cross-learning, networking, and mentorship among students and industry leaders.
Nippon Paint, founded in Japan, is Asia’s leading paint manufacturer, known for its high-quality, eco-friendly products. With a mission to enhance quality of life through innovation, Nippon Paint operates in 31 countries.
