The Evolve Design Competition is Designer Rugs’ premier platform for Australian creatives to delve into the world of rug design. It’s a unique opportunity for new voices and seasoned professionals alike to submit their works to one of the country’s leading rug companies, fostering innovation and highlighting the role of colour in transforming interiors.

The competition’s fifth edition follows the theme ‘The Power of Colour’, inviting architects, interior designers, decorators and stylists to submit their original designs that showcase innovative uses of colour and exceptional artistry.

Woods Bagot interior designer Maggie Craig was named the winner for the ‘Under 30s’ category, announced at a celebration event hosted at the Designer Rugs showroom in Richmond.

Maggie’s design inspiration came from modernist artist Harriet Korman’s 1971 piece, Untitled, incorporating clean lines and delicate tones.

“Korman’s art embraces simplicity while inviting deeper reflection – qualities I aimed to capture in this design,” says Maggie. “The balance between softness and structure in her lines resonates with how a space can feel both orderly and inviting.”

“The design of this rug is built around a subtle grid, providing structure and rhythm that organises the composition and grounds the space,” she continues. “Within this framework, tonal colour shifts create gentle, almost imperceptible variations that add depth and softness to the pattern.

“These subtle changes guide the eye smoothly across the surface, enhancing the sense of harmony. This rug is intended to ground a space, creating a sense of uniformity while still allowing for moments that feel sharp and bold. Ultimately, the piece bridges calmness with vitality, offering both serenity and a spark of personality.”

As the winner of the ‘Under 30s’ category, Maggie will receive a $2,000 cash prize and an expenses-paid trip to Copenhagen for Design Week.

“Designer Rugs is an important supplier not only to the industry at large, but also to our own projects,” says Maggie. “Their designers assist us in translating concepts and artworks into textiles that have tangible impacts within our spaces.”