Switzerland has long been recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation, and its design achievements are highly regarded on the international stage. Whether in graphic design, product design, fashion, or architecture, Swiss design is known for its distinctive aesthetic language and professional precision. To honor those who have made significant contributions to the development of Swiss design, the Swiss Federal Office of Culture established the Swiss Grand Prix of Design in 2007. Each year, the award is given to three outstanding individuals whose work has made a lasting impact both nationally and internationally.
This book marks the first volume in a new annual series that documents and reflects on the evolution of contemporary design in Switzerland through the lens of this prestigious award. The series aims to serve as a valuable archive of Swiss design excellence—especially meaningful for those designers who rarely publish monographs of their work. Through a growing collection of in-depth, illustrated portraits, readers are invited to explore not only the diversity of Swiss design, but also the cultural significance and creative thinking behind it.
In this inaugural edition, we are introduced to the three laureates of the 2021 Swiss Grand Prix of Design: graphic designer Julia Born, renowned for her cool, minimalist yet conceptually rich visual language; photographer and art director Peter Knapp, an influential figure in fashion and media whose work has shaped the cultural scenes in both France and Switzerland; and design researcher and educator Sarah Owens, who has devoted her career to advancing design theory and education, expanding the scope of design as a tool for social and cultural reflection.
Presented in four languages—English, French, German, and Italian—this volume combines essays, conversations, biographies, and visual archives to offer a rich and multifaceted portrait of contemporary Swiss design. More than just a record of an award, this book is a thoughtful exploration of how design integrates into everyday life, shapes culture, and continues to evolve with each new generation.