Sabato, the upscale weekend lifestyle magazine by De Tijd and L’Echo, proudly launches the inaugural Sabato Design Awards. With six prestigious awards, this new initiative aims to spotlight both Belgian and international design talents who dare to redefine aesthetics, function, and sustainability.
The winners will be unveiled during an exclusive awards ceremony and networking event on October 22, poised to become a landmark gathering for the design industry.
“The Sabato Design Awards give a platform to outstanding design from Belgium and beyond, our expert jury is currently compiling a longlist of designers deserving recognition. In October, we will honor six exceptional projects and individuals. This event will be the design community’s networking highlight of the year.” – Gerda Ackaert, Creative Director of Sabato.
A Celebration of Visionary Design
With the launch of the Sabato Design Awards, Sabato seeks to elevate designers who challenge conventions and lead with purpose. An expert jury of international design figures will reward creations that not only excel in aesthetic appeal but also demonstrate innovation and sustainable impact.
The Six Sabato Design Awards
- Best Belgian Private Residential Interior Design Award
Honors an outstanding interior design in a private Belgian residence. - International Public Interior Design Award
Rewards excellence in the design of public spaces such as hotels, museums, restaurants, or coworking environments. - International Product of the Moment Award
Celebrates a new or evolved product that responds to current trends, societal needs, or technological innovation, with proven industry or consumer impact. - Belgian Lifetime Achievement Design Award
Acknowledges a lifetime of remarkable contributions to the design world. - Belgian Young Talent Award – Jury Prize
Awarded to a promising young Belgian designer by the professional jury. - Belgian Young Talent Award – Public Vote
Chosen by public vote, this award spotlights the most inspiring emerging designer as selected by the wider design-loving community.
An Esteemed International Jury
A panel of ten industry leaders will determine the award winners. Their expertise spans editorial, curation, design practice, branding, and education:
- Gerda Ackaert – Creative Director, Sabato
- Yoko Choy – China Editor at Wallpaper, design journalist and curator
- Siegrid Demyttenaere – Publisher of DAMN°, curator, and professor at KASK & Conservatorium Gent
- Max Fraser – Editorial Director at Dezeen, journalist, and design curator
- Lionel Jadot – Designer and founder of Zaventem Ateliers
- Dimitri Jeurissen – Co-founder of branding agency Base Design
- Katrien Laporte – Director of Design Museum Gent
- Kate Stockman – Brand strategist, innovation coach, and guest lecturer at Erasmushogeschool
- Nik & Robbe Vandewyngaerde – Co-founders of design gallery Objects with Narratives
The jury is currently reviewing a curated longlist of over 100 designers. Finalists will be selected in each category, and the public will be invited to vote for the Belgian Young Talent Award – Public Vote.
Join the Celebration on October 22
The Sabato Design Awards 2025 will culminate in an exclusive award ceremony this fall, bringing together designers, industry professionals, media, and tastemakers to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and bold vision in design.
