IFI Names Winners of Inaugural Global Awards Program

New York, NY, March 10, 2020 – Design excellence and talent within the Interiors profession was recognized at the first International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers’ (IFI) Global Awards Program as part of the IFI Congress in Dubai, UAE.

Arthur Gensler, founder of global architecture, design and planning firm Gensler, was awarded the IFI PRIZE. Gensler was praised for his commitment to elevating the practice of Interior Architecture/Design to new professional standing throughout his ongoing 50-year career. 

British design critic, public speaker and author Alice Rawsthorn was presented with the IFI Design Journalism Award for delivering outstanding and impactful reporting and storytelling.

Five international design leaders were recognized as fellows of IFI (FoIFI), who as individuals have displayed outstanding international achievements within the interior architecture/design discipline.

Sebastiano Raneri (Italy) was awarded for his major contribution to development of the global Interiors profession, both in his career as a successful practitioner, exemplary educator, international design commentator, and instrumental leader in the design communities of IFI and the Associazione Italiana Progettisti d’Interni. 

Julio Cesar Chavez Espino (Mexico), architect and founder of the Sociedad Mexicana de Interioristas was recognized for his work championing the interiors profession in Mexico and internationally over the past 36 years, as a design leader, cultural icon, educator and student advocate.

The immense local, regional and international contribution of IDr Mohamad Faisal Ghazali (Malalysia) was acknowledged, who has also been actively involved with international activities through IFI for over three decades.

Dr. Jooyun Kim (Korea), professor of interior architecture/design at Hongik University in Seoul, South Korea, was recognized for his contributions across professional practice, thought leadership and design advocacy, that position him as a significant design leader for the wider Asia region.

Susan Szenasy (USA), former director of design innovation and long-time editor in chief of Metropolis Magazine, was awarded for her exemplary work with design thought leadership and ongoing commitment to informed dialogue, which has influenced and guided generations of design professionals.