The City of Zagreb is calling upon the global design community to shape its future through a bold and transformative visual identity. This international open call invites creative minds to craft a design that reflects Zagreb's rich heritage, cultural vibrancy, and aspirations as a forward-thinking European Union capital.
Why This Competition?
Organized by the Croatian Designers Association, this competition offers a unique opportunity to redefine the visual identity of one of Europe’s most intriguing cities. Zagreb’s current identity seeks a refresh, a more nuanced representation that embraces its history, architecture, and the spirit of its people. The challenge is to encapsulate Zagreb’s complexity through a cohesive design system that is adaptable, recognizable, and reflective of its place in Europe and the world.
What We’re Looking For
Designers are invited to create a modern, high-quality solution that will represent Zagreb’s past, present, and future. The visual identity must balance clarity and flexibility, providing guidelines that ensure continuity while allowing creative freedom. This includes adaptability for various applications, from routine city branding to significant public events and special occasions. The end goal? A visual language that resonates with both locals and visitors and becomes a symbol of Zagreb’s identity on the international stage.
Who Can Participate?
This open call is open to professional designers, individual creatives, and interdisciplinary teams worldwide. Each team must be led by a design professional, while other members may come from different disciplines at the discretion of the team.
An Esteemed Jury
An international jury of respected professionals from diverse backgrounds will evaluate all submissions, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach in selecting a winning design that reflects Zagreb’s uniqueness. The members of our Jury are Tom Dorresteijn, Strategy Director at Studio Dumbar; Ira Payer, Creative director at Superstudio, Ana Marija Poljanec, designer and founder of Oaza Collective; Luka Korlaet, Deputy Mayor of the City of Zagreb and Luka Thumm, Office of the Mayor.
Awards
With a prize fund totaling €51,000, this competition recognizes the importance of visionary work. The fund will be distributed among the top five proposals, rewarding the creative efforts that best capture Zagreb’s character and ambitions. The winner will be offered an additional contract of preparing a detailed design solution and a basic graphic standards manual for the estimated amount of up to €35,000 after the public procurement negotiated procedure, in accordance with Article 133 of Croatia's public procurement law.
Submission Details
Designers have until January 13, 2025, to submit their proposals. For more information, including submission guidelines and official requirements, please visit the Croatian Designers Association’s website.
This is more than just a competition—it’s a chance to contribute to a city’s evolving story. Join us in creating a visual identity that celebrates Zagreb’s heritage and shapes its future.
Take on a challenge!