The 2009 International Design Award (IDA) has attracted more than 1,300 contestants, which is a significant increase from the 2007 competition. The success of the 2009 competition not only reflects the importance of this year’s theme but also clearly demonstrates that the IDA, organized by Hettich and Rehau, has international recognition and prestige.

The theme for the 2009 competition embraces two lifestyle worlds possible in the year 2020: Silver Business Generation and Technology Freak. To satisfy the needs of those living in these two worlds, the competition hopes to identify innovations in technology and design for furniture, furniture functions and functionalities, while using practical surfaces and materials that are of the highest quality. Entries will be rewarded for extraordinary visual solutions that open up new dimensions in terms of design, architecture and technology.

As the call for entries deadline passed, Hettich and Rehau attributed the high number of applicants to their close collaboration with universities and colleges. In summing up their joint commitment, the project managers from both companies commented: "In the network with students, professors and institutes of higher learning, we address issues today that will play a central part in determining the future worlds we will inhabit and work in."

Those that met the registration guidelines to enter the International Design Awards competition are working hard to get their designs in by February 15, 2009. The designs will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges made up of internationally acclaimed experts from the industry. Winners will be announced in Cologne, Germany during Interzum 2009, which is from May 13 to 16, 2009. Information covering all aspects of the International Design Award may be obtained by logging on to www.InternationalDesignAward.com.