The recognition is highly competitive: from a pool of 150-200 national applicants, only 60 emerging designers were selected to attend the three-day immersive experience at THE MART in Chicago from November 2-4, 2025. Of those 60, just 11 received NEXT awards—which recognize outstanding emerging talent nationwide—during a ceremony hosted by Interior Design Editor-in-Chief Cindy Allen.

Interior Design’s 30/30 program has become one of the industry’s most significant platforms for emerging talent, not simply celebrating youth but identifying designers whose leadership and innovation are actively pushing the profession forward. Conference sessions reflected this mission, challenging attendees to think expansively while leaning into the personal. AJ Paron explored design empathy, Brant Menswar examined authenticity as a decision driver, and ThinkLab founder Amanda Schneider led workshops on building design careers and reaching the next generation—themes that resonate deeply with Woods Bagot’s commitment to designing for worlds ahead.

Shanna’s selection reflects both her individual talent and Woods Bagot’s ongoing investment in nurturing the next generation of design leaders. As our New York studio continues to grow, recognitions like this affirm that our commitment to emerging designers is shaping both individual careers and the broader trajectory of the profession.

The NEXT award represents more than recognition of past achievements—it’s an investment in future possibilities. For Shanna and her cohort, the conference offered not just celebration but challenge: to continue pushing boundaries, to design with empathy and intention, and to build the future of design one thoughtful decision at a time.