DECODE Awards 2025

The DECODE Awards were open to creatives aged 18–35 in the fields of Architecture and Art. Applicants were invited to respond to the question: “How is a work of art created?” Through one of their own projects, participants were asked to present their creative process, concept development, and sources of inspiration in a short film of up to three minutes.

One of DECODE’s greatest strengths is its distinguished professional jury, which welcomed three new members this year. Joining the panel were Demeter Nóra, architect and interior designer, recipient of the Ybl Prize and founder and director of Demeter Design Studio; Fanni Solymár, curator and specialist in art theory; and Edit Sasvári, art historian.

The jury evaluated the submissions based on the originality of the stories presented and the visual quality of the films. Following the creation of a shortlist, the jury selected the Grand Prize winners in both the Architecture and Art categories, awarded two Promising Project Awards in each category, and presented one Spotlight Award.

The DECODE Awards 2025 ceremony took place at Apollo Gallery in Corvin Palace (Budapest) and was preceded by the DECODE Inspiration event. As part of the programme, the Foundation invited two speakers whose work reflects DECODE’s mission to share their creative methods and present a selection of inspiring projects. Representing architecture, Valentina Torrente from Mario Cucinella Architects delivered a presentation, while internationally acclaimed visual artist Ilona Németh offered insights into her artistic practice, creating an inspiring atmosphere ahead of the awards ceremony.

The ceremony was hosted by architectural storyteller Dávid Zubreczki. Alongside the handcrafted DECODE trophy, designed by Fruzsina Zalavári from hand-polished crystal-clear glass, the Grand Prize included a net cash award of HUF 1,000,000, while each Promising Project Award was worth HUF 150,000.

Continuing the tradition of previous years, the category-independent Spotlight Award was also presented. This special sponsor’s prize recognises creative works that make a meaningful contribution to society.

Supported by Reneszánsz Zrt., this year’s Spotlight Award consisted of a HUF 500,000 travel voucher towards flights to a destination of the winner’s choice, providing support for future professional and research trips.

The shortlisted and award-winning projects were showcased throughout the evening on large-scale LED screens installed in Apollo Gallery. The event’s Main Sponsor was EBH Invest, alongside the award’s founding partner, BORD Architectural Studio. Following the ceremony, all winning and shortlisted projects, together with those recognised in previous years, became available on the DECODE YouTube channel.