Cooper Hewitt Introduces Gala Honorees for 2026 National Design Awards
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum has established a new category of recognition for its Smithsonian National Design Awards Gala. A selection of Gala Honorees will be celebrated for their enduring impact on design, alongside the 2026 National Design Award winners. The annual awards ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 in New York City. This initiative aligns with the United States' 250th anniversary, with honorees chosen to represent both current innovators and historical figures who have influenced American design across various fields and eras. Among the contemporary leaders named is the multinational technology company Adobe. The museum's announcement highlights a deliberate effort to broaden the celebration of design achievement during this significant national milestone.
Key facts
- Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum announced a new Gala Honoree distinction
- Gala Honorees will be recognized for lasting contributions to design
- Honorees will be celebrated alongside 2026 National Design Award winners
- The awards gala will be held on Tuesday, May 19
- The event will take place in New York City
- The 2026 gala coincides with the United States' 250th anniversary
- Honorees include both contemporary leaders and historic figures
- Contemporary honoree Adobe is a multinational technology company
Entities
Institutions
Locations
- New York City
- United States