MAXIMIZE YOUR PROPERTY VALUE WITH AWARD-WINNING DESIGN

Design Is Good Business. IBM President Thomas J. Watson Jr. recognized this back in 1973, and Steve Jobs exemplified it with Apple. These visionaries knew that great design is not just an artistic endeavor but a strategic financial decision.

Award-winning designs don’t merely shimmer with the glow of aesthetic brilliance; they instill confidence in buyers. In today's saturated property markets, where choices abound, the guarantee of quality signified by a design award can be the decisive factor for potential buyers. Surveys from industry groups, such as the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), consistently show that buyers are more inclined to purchase homes recognized for their design excellence. They associate these properties with thoughtful design, innovative solutions, and superior living experiences.

This isn’t just anecdotal. When controlling for location, transaction time, building features, and transaction features, a hedonic analysis suggests that buildings designed by awarded architects command a 23.1% premium over those designed by non-awarded counterparts. This finding, highlighted by the MIT Real Estate Innovation Lab, underscores the quantifiable impact of investing in high-quality design.
Yet, the influence of award-winning design isn’t limited to immediate financial gains. Its resonance echoes through years of ownership, conferring long-term benefits. Properties that set design benchmarks tend to attract high-caliber tenants and sustained investor interest. They evolve beyond mere buildings; they become landmarks, celebrated for their architectural and cultural contributions. This ongoing recognition ensures that their value continues to appreciate, offering a solid return on investment over time.

Benedict Sheppard, a partner at McKinsey Design’s London office, underscores the profound impact of committed design investment. “This isn’t a linear game,” Sheppard remarks. “One extra dollar spent on design doesn’t lead to one extra dollar of revenue. It’s a case of disproportionate rewards. Everyone talks about the top two or three products, not the ones that went from being the 32nd to the 31st best. The message is: Do it properly, or don’t do it at all.”

This insight holds true for interior design, where awarded spaces are often synonymous with luxury and exclusivity. These accolades signify that every detail—from material selection to space configuration—has been executed with precision and visionary flair. As a result, properties with award-winning interiors command higher prices and attract a clientele willing to invest in exceptional quality.

Furthermore, the media spotlight on award-winning properties amplifies their visibility and desirability. Features in prestigious publications, showcases in architectural tours, and discussions in professional forums heighten the property's allure. This exposure not only attracts potential buyers but also establishes the property—as well as its owner—as a patron of excellence and innovation.

In the heart of this narrative lies an undeniable truth: investing in high-quality design is not just a celebration of artistry; it is a blueprint for financial success. Distinguished design elevates property value, enhances buyer confidence, and ensures long-term appreciation. In a competitive market where every detail counts, the edge provided by award-winning design is irrefutable. It is an investment that yields substantial financial returns and elevates market position, demonstrating that great design is a strategic asset and a key driver of long-term value and prestige.

Curious to see design in action? Explore our curated list of award-winning properties that have become icons of architectural excellence. Learn what makes them stand out and why they’re worth every investment