Yorkshire-based home furnishing brand Blinds Direct has launched a nationwide competition that gives aspiring student designers the chance to have their work printed on a range of interior decor products that will be sold on the company’s website, with the artist credited in each product listing.

The BD Design Challenge 2021 invites undergraduate students to create a design that celebrates both their individuality and identity. The winning entry will be printed by Blinds Direct and made available on the website as Roman blinds, roller blinds, cushions, lampshades and curtains. 

Design students from local universities are encouraged to create a unique pattern inspired by their heritage and history and are given free reign over their technique or chosen subject - whether they opt for florals, geometric or abstract design elements. The top three entrants will be decided by an expert panel of judges drafted from the Blinds Direct design team plus guest judge Karen Walker, editor of Good Homes. 

With more than 25 years' experience in the home interest sector, Karen has a huge passion for all things interiors. Working across both digital and print magazines, including Real Homes, Grand Designs, Homes & Gardens and Ultimate Christmas Magazine, she has developed a keen eye for upcoming talent.

The winner and two runners-up will also receive a complimentary lampshade and cushion from Blinds Direct that features their design. To provide the winning student with additional exposure and recognition for their creativity, their design will also be featured in an exclusive article in Good Homes magazine. 

Lukasz Marat, Head of Brand & Creative comments: “As a Yorkshire-based company, we are delighted to be giving aspiring designers the opportunity to have their work come to life on the website and in production. We’re excited to see the levels of creativity and designs from students all across the UK, and wish them every success in the competition.”

How to enter

Entrants need to submit a digital version of their design using a template available on the website, along with a 200-word explanation of their creative process and factors featured in the pattern. A copy of the entrant’s student or NUS card with valid start and expiration dates is also required alongside the final design and 200-word bio to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The competition runs now, to 11.59pm on 31st August 2021. The winner will be contacted via email on September 30th 2021.

To see the full details of the new design competition, please visit: https://www.blindsdirect.co.uk/design-challenge-2021