Kimball International believes in the future, and in nurturing the next generation of designers that are primed to revolutionize how it's shaped. After all, an investment in the future is an investment in ourselves. As designers, we're constantly asking how to ensure that our work has the capacity to evolve with the world around us. Whether it's ensuring that buildings can adapt to climate change or that our materials are resilient and healthy, sometimes innovation needs a little help.

The Kimball International Makers of a Better Future fund does just that. In partnership with IIDA, the awards up to two recipients up to $2,500 towards the IIDA Certified Design Futurist program tuition, and round-trip airfare and hotel stay in Chicago for the IIDA Annual Meeting kicking off Chicago Design Week. Both opportunities offer these designers a foundation towards building their expertise and networks as they pursue their vision for future-forward, innovative design.

The 2026 awardees, Mitchell Brooks, IIDA, CDF, and Lauren Cole, IIDA, CDF share the belief that design can, and should, shape the future and be adaptable. Watch their winning submissions below to learn more about how they plan to design for the future.

Mitchell Brooks, IIDA, CDF
Principal and Founder of Lawrence Licensed Interior Design Inc.

Lauren Cole, IIDA, CDF 
System Director of Design Strategy for Providence St. Joseph Health

Learn more about the Kimball International Makers of a Better Future award here