red dot gala 2024 celebrates the best of the best in product design

red dot gala 2024 at the aalto theater in essen

The Red Dot Design Award Gala on June 24, 2024, brought together international design luminaries in Essen, Germany, to celebrate the year’s best in product design. The event kicked off at the Aalto Theatre, followed by an after-show party at the Red Dot Design Museum, located on the site of the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex. Chief designers from renowned global brands like Fiskars, Hilti, Ducati, Philips, LIXIL, Thule, and Logitech attended the event, honoring exceptional design and their creators.

the Red Dot Gala on June 24, 2024, celebrates the best in product design | all images courtesy of Red Dot

a trophy for the best of the best

Established in 1955, the Red Dot Design Award (see more here) is one of the most esteemed accolades in the design industry, recognized globally as a mark of quality and innovation. The award is divided into three competitions: Product Design, Brands & Communication Design, and Design Concept. Each year, these document and celebrate the most prominent trends worldwide, showcasing the best of the best. 

The 2024 Gala welcomed around 1,300 guests, celebrating manufacturers and designers from 20 nations which were delighted to receive the special honor of the Red Dot Trophy. The event was highlighted by the ‘In-Between’ performance from the Aalto Ballet and speeches from notable figures like Professor Dr. Peter Zec, founder and CEO of Red Dot, and Lord Mayor Thomas Kufen. The after-show party at the Red Dot Design Museum featured exhibitions of award-winning products, live DJ performances, and a 50 meter long display of exclusive vehicles like the Ferrari Roma Spider and Ducati Diavel V4, creating an special evening of design and culture.

exclusively for the night, award-winning vehicles from all classes were presented

red dot: design team of the year 2024

The pinnacle of the ceremony was the recognition of the Thule Design Team as the Red Dot: Design Team of the Year 2024. This honor reflects Thule’s dedication to functional design and a deep understanding of customer needs. Founded in 1942 in Hillerstorp, Sweden, the company has evolved from producing fishing gear to becoming a global leader in outdoor products, including sports and cargo carriers. 

Thule’s design identity, deeply rooted in their Småland origins and known for a profound connection to nature, encourages users to embrace their passions, whether it’s skiing, biking, running, or simply living life to the fullest. The company’s commitment to consumer-centric design has earned Thule numerous accolades since their debut in the Red Dot Design Award in 2011, winning distinctions for products ranging from backpacks to strollers.

Thule wins Red Dot: Design Team of the Year 2024

Guests of the Red Dot Gala 2024 had the opportunity to explore the special exhibition ‘Thule Design Team – Designing for an active life,’ curated by the Red Dot: Design Team of the Year. This exhibition provides insights into the team’s work and the company’s products and will be open until  September 15, 2024.

The ‘Milestones in Contemporary Design’ and ‘Design on Stage’ displays showcase the award-winning products of 2024, along with 1,500 other designs on five floors of the Red Dot Museum. They will remain open to the public until June 1, 2025, offering a comprehensive view of the best in contemporary design.

Thule Outset Towbar mounted tent

Thule Elm toddler car seat

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‘Thule Design Team – Designing for an active life’ open until September 15, 2024

the Red Dot Museum presents 2024's winning products in the ‘Milestones in Contemporary Design’ exhibition

the exhibition will remain open to the public until June 1, 2025

Thule Allax car dog crate

Red Dot’s Best of the Best: Thule Urban Glide 4-wheel all-terrain stroller

project info:name: Red Dot | @reddotdesignaward
event: Red Dot Design Award Gala 2024
location: Aalto Theatre / Red Dot Design Museum, Essen, Germany
design team of the year 2024: Thule | @thule