JLL and IE University award program to advance top design talent

CHICAGO, Feb. 25, 2026 – JLL Project and Development Services (PDS) and IE School of Architecture & Design at IE University have launched the IE and JLL Design Wonder Award for the second year. The award will support nine post-graduate students to pursue the Master of Interior Design at IE School of Architecture and Design in Madrid, Spain. Applications for the award are open until April 30th, 2026.

Last year’s Master in Interior Design class comprised entirely of international students, reflecting the program’s strong global perspective and commitment to redefining interior design – with a clear focus on how spatial environments shape human experience and drive positive impact in society.

The IE and JLL Design Wonder Award provides brilliant candidates with the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of design at all levels, from smaller individual rooms to grand communal areas. Through the intensive 10-month, in-person program students gain a deep understanding of how people engage with the built environment and acquire the skills and knowledge required to become leaders in the field of interior design. Upon completion of the program, successful graduates have the opportunity to apply what they learned by working on a team in a design studio as part of JLL Design or JLL’s Tétris Design and Build.

“Building on the tremendous success of our inaugural year, we’re excited to continue our collaboration with IE University,” said Nicasio Gutiérrez, PDS Global Head of Design, JLL. “The first cohort of award recipients has demonstrated the exceptional level of talent that emerges from IE School of Architecture & Design’s innovative program. As we enter our second year, we’re seeing the real-world impact of this partnership in developing the next generation of design leaders who will shape the future of our industry.”

JLL will continue to provide course content and lectures throughout the program – ensuring students have insight to real-world challenges and leave the program ready to excel as interior designers worldwide.

Innovative design and cutting-edge research
 

JLL’s recent 2026 Design Perspectives Report found four that flexible, future-proofed design is essential as organizations navigate continued uncertainty and rapid technological change. Technology-enabled spaces must be balanced with human-centric, sensory spaces to enhance creativity, well-being and connection. Personalization across entertainment, retail and leisure services is becoming increasingly important, as people seek unique experiences.

“We are committed to building a more sustainable, more just and more beautiful world through thoughtful interior design education,” said David Goodman, Dean of IE School of Architecture & Design. “Our partnership with JLL has proven invaluable in connecting our students to real-world practice and industry expertise. We’re thrilled to welcome a new cohort of talented designers who will benefit from JLL’s continued support and mentorship.”

JLL is committed to providing a full spectrum of project and development management services, that starts with transformative designs that create inspiring places for people and businesses. Industry-leading teams leverage market insights, research expertise and project data to save clients time and money. Part of honoring that commitment is supporting, encouraging and fostering new talent.

“The second year of this program represents our ongoing investment in the future of interior design,” said Adrian Davidson, Head of Design, EMEA, JLL. “We’ve witnessed firsthand how supporting emerging talent creates a ripple effect throughout our industry. This year’s recipients will join a growing community of designers who understand not only sustainable practices and emerging technologies like AI, but also the critical business dynamics and client relationship skills needed to deliver strategic design solutions.”

More information on the IE and JLL Design Wonder Award is available here, and information on pursuing a Master of Interior Design at IE School of Architecture and Design can be found here.

JLL Design delivers innovative solutions that transform spaces and inspire people, guided by creativity, global expertise and data-driven insights. With 600+ designers across 65 studios in over 30 countries, the team manages diverse projects spanning strategy, branding and interiors. JLL Design's comprehensive approach covers workplace, retail and hospitality, offering end-to-end support from concept to completion. Addressing complex design challenges, the expert team ensures spaces are functional, forward-thinking, and adaptable to evolving needs. Backed by JLL's extensive real estate ecosystem, JLL Design creates lasting value through transformative designs that enhance daily life and business performance. Learn more at jll.com/en-us/services/project-management/design.

For more news, videos and research resources on JLL, please visit JLL’s newsroom.

IE School of Architecture and Design, one of the six schools at IE University, places a strong focus on innovation in design education and is dedicated to fostering a creative, entrepreneurial, and socially responsible mindset. The School emphasizes hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a deep understanding of design's societal impact. Guided by a “learning by doing” philosophy, students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities at the IE Creative Campus in Segovia and the IE Tower in Madrid, including fabrication and venture labs, experimentation workshops, and research studios. The School combines design excellence with business and management training, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in architecture, real estate development, design, and fashion design, including dual degrees—all designed to prepare future leaders to navigate the complexities of the creative industries and contribute to building a better world. For further information, visit: https://www.ie.edu/school-architecture-design/