Last night in Chicago at Moss Headquarters, hosted by Exhibit City News, The Experiential Design Authority announced the winners of its first-annual ExSys Awards competition, honoring excellence in system-based exhibit design and execution. The inaugural competition received more than 130 entries from exhibit designers, producers, and manufacturers in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
In addition to the Gold Award winners featured here, Bronze and Silver Award winners were named in each category. Aluvision received this year’s System of the Year Award for racking up the most wins throughout the competition, and Condit Exhibits was named Agency of the Year, with five of its entries taking home Gold and Silver trophies. Meanwhile, Debbie Parrott, President and CEO of Highmark Techsystems received this year’s ExSys Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing her dedication to the experiential design industry and contributions to the manufacture and innovation of system-based exhibits.
Best Small In-Line Exhibit
Octonuts
The Winter Fancy Food Show
Design/Fabrication: Condit Exhibits
System: Aluvision
Octonuts’ 10×20-foot exhibit earned the Gold Award for Best Small In-Line Exhibit thanks to its colorful design and straightforward yet sophisticated aesthetic. Designed and fabricated by Condit Exhibits, the booth featured modular configurations, inset lightbox shelving, and adaptable product interaction areas. “There are so many great things going on in this exhibit,” said one ExSys Awards judge. Another noted how the exhibit’s flexible design enabled easy scaling, while maintaining a sleek, branded look that highlighted Octonuts’ products.
Best Large In-Line Exhibit
Classic Exhibits
Exhibitor Live
Design/Fabrication: Classic Exhibits
System: Classic Exhibits
Classic Exhibits won Best Large In-Line Exhibit for its 10-by-30-foot display at Exhibitor Live 2024. Designed with Gravitee modular walls, SuperNova Lightboxes, and custom wood-build elements, the exhibit highlighted Classic’s full range of capabilities. Lenticular graphics created a dynamic, analog interaction, while a 14-foot LED installation and semi-enclosed meeting area blended tech and design to invite deeper conversations with distributor partners. In the words of one ExSys Awards judge, “The exhibit’s captivating design successfully merges functionality, aesthetics, and undeniable appeal.”
Best Small Island Exhibit
Axonius
RSA Conference
Design: Hill & Partners
Fabrication: Exhibit Technology Inc.
System: Highmark TechSystems, BeMatrix
The Gold Award for Best Small Island Exhibit went to Axonius for its dynamic, 20-by-20-foot exhibit designed by Hill & Partners to simplify the complex topic of cybersecurity. Using Highmark Techsystems and BeMatrix, the booth featured eight demo stations, self-guided tours, and a double-deck structure for expanded engagement. A rotating illuminated sign, 8-foot logo, and vibrant LED displays energized the space, making it an eye-catching, immersive exhibit that punched far above its square-footage weight class.
Best Medium Island Exhibit
Aluvision
Integrated Systems Europe
Design/Fabrication: Aluvision
System: Aluvision
Aluvision claimed the Gold Award for Best Medium Island Exhibit with a vibrant 30-by-46-foot booth that one ExSys Awards judge called “a wonderland that effectively demonstrates their capabilities.” Using Aluvision’s signature modular system, the space featured cutting-edge Hi-LED tiles, a dramatic three-tiered LED chandelier, and a raised floor concealing cabling. Aluvision’s booth captivated ISE attendees with bold visuals, seamless integration, and an immersive after-hours event, showcasing the brand’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and sustainable design excellence.
Best Large Island Exhibit
Zimmer Biomet
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Design/Fabrication: Hamilton
System: Aluvision, BeMatrix, Agam, Highmark Techsystems
As the highest-scoring entry in this year’s competition, Zimmer Biomet’s 90-by-150-foot exhibit received the Gold Award for Best Large Island Exhibit and the coveted 2025 Exhibit of the Year Award. Designed and built by Hamilton, the structure fused Aluvision, BeMatrix, Agam, and Highmark systems to create an immersive space that reimagined the operating room of the future. Featuring a glass-enclosed Intelligent Operating Room, synchronized LED content, and hands-on demo labs, the booth spotlighted Zimmer Biomet’s cutting-edge technologies in an equally cutting-edge environment that judges hailed as dynamic, futuristic, and “brilliantly beautiful.”
Best Small Rental Exhibit
Nature’s Bakery
Natural Products Expo West
Design/Fabrication: Condit Exhibits
System: Aluvision
Nature’s Bakery earned Best Small Rental Exhibit honors for what judges called a clever and whimsical 20-by-20-foot bakery-themed booth, designed and fabricated by Condit Exhibits using the Aluvision system. The team masked a venue column while maintaining safety access, coordinated multiple materials for a cohesive monochromatic look, and adapted rental furniture to align with the brand’s palette. Thoughtful engineering and seamless vendor collaboration resulted in a visually unified space that presented the company’s products without compromising function or aesthetics.
Best Large Rental Exhibit
Hologic
Radiological Society of North America
Design/Fabrication: Derse
System: Aluvision, Derse
Hologic’s 80-by-80-foot exhibit redefined rental design by blending bold architecture, immersive storytelling, and sustainable innovation. Designed and built by Derse, using Aluvision and Derse’s own Big Metal system, the space showcased the Envision mammography gantry through dynamic LED features, theatrical lighting, and hands-on demos. A double-deck structure maximized engagement, while custom LED plinths and interactive touchscreens deepened the experience. Judges applauded the exhibit’s use of space and multimedia installation that attracted more than 2,300 social media engagements from attendees.
Best International Design
Von Hagen Design
EuroShop
Design: Chris Wendel
Fabrication: Von Hagen Design
System: Syma System
Celebrating the company’s 30th anniversary, Von Hagen Design’s 15-by-41-foot exhibit reimagined artist Ernst F. Drewes’s work — blending mirror illusions, LED projections, and graphic overlays using the Syma system. The emotionally resonant design invited curiosity and connection. In the words of one judge, “This is such a clever and cool design that I cannot imagine anyone not entering to explore.” More than an exhibit, it was a moving tribute to friendship, creativity, and three decades of design innovation.
Best Fabric Exhibit
Red Bull North America
National Association of Convenience Stores
Design/Fabrication: Storylink Creative
System: BeMatrix
Red Bull’s 50-by-50-foot exhibit was named Best Fabric Exhibit for its electrifying transformation of existing assets into an immersive brand experience. Using BeMatrix frames, dynamic fabric graphics, and dozens of repurposed digital posters, the space pulsed with energy and multimedia storytelling. A DJ, live dance battles, and sampling stations turned the booth into a destination. Designed and fabricated by Storylink Creative, the exhibit was praised by judges as “a true example of effective brand-world building with unmistakable Red Bull spirit.”
Best Double-Deck Exhibit
Aluvision
EuroShop
Design/Fabrication: Aluvision
System: Aluvision
Aluvision’s 40-by-60-foot “Museum of Modular Art” exhibit showcased the brand’s systems and invited attendees to explore product “sculptures” along fluid pathways. Judges praised the booth as delightful, engaging, and “absolutely on brand.” At its core stood the Flexdeck — a towering, double-deck structure that served as both beacon and lounge. Post-show, the modular booth became a permanent showroom piece, proving Aluvision’s systems are not only beautiful but also innovative and endlessly reusable.
Best Overhead Element
Aluvision
Integrated Systems Europe
Design/Fabrication: Aluvision
System: Aluvision
Aluvision’s 46-by-30-foot booth dazzled ISE attendees with a three-tiered, chandelier-like hanging sign that fused Hi-LED tiles with SEG fabric for a mesmerizing blend of motion and light that embodied the brand’s “Design Freely and Build Better” theme. “This is a great example of using digital media to draw attendees’ eyes,” said one ExSys Awards judge. The synchronized display and seamless design showcased Aluvision’s latest solutions while proving the brand’s systems are as functional as they are unforgettable.
Best Graphics
Veterinary Emergency Group
International Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society
Design/Fabrication: BlueHive Exhibits
System: Ntension, BeMatrix
Designed by BlueHive Exhibits, VEG’s 20-by-30-foot exhibit earned top honors for Best Graphics by transforming two-dimensional art into modular, cutout-rich panels with layered textures and interactive elements. “This is one of those cases where the graphics make the exhibit,” said one ExSys Awards judge. With themed flooring, whimsical props, and playful branding — including a towering peace sign and illustrated animals — the “Rest Area” concept came to life, creating an immersive, eye-catching experience that stood out on the show floor.
Best Sustainable Design
DDS Tile
Boutique Design New York
Design: Classic Exhibits, Summit Graphics PDX
Fabrication: Classic Exhibits
System: Classic Exhibits, EcoSystems
Classic Exhibits and Summit Graphics PDX teamed up to turn birch plywood and a tool-free cam-locking system into a 200-square-foot sustainable design for DDS Tile that proves eco-conscious choices can still dazzle. According to one judge, “The beautiful booth and materials chosen tell a succinct sustainability story that successfully stands out.” Adjustable LED lighting and live tile demos made it both fashionable and functional, capturing the attention of architects and designers throughout the design-forward event.
Best Tech Integration
Zero Systems
ILTACON
Design/Fabrication: Ion Exhibits
System: BeMatrix
HerculesAI (formerly Zero Systems) earned Best Tech Integration with a high-impact 20-by-20-foot rental designed by Ion Exhibits. Comprising BeMatrix and LEDskin, the design featured seamless corner-mounted LED tiles showcasing vivid 3D and 4K content. “The dimensionality of the graphics and dynamism of the display make this truly captivating,” said one judge. Meticulously planned and executed, the booth drew major attention, proving LED tiles need not be mere exhibit accents, but can become the exhibit — and experience — all on their own.
Best Experiential Design
Paramount+
The Lodge (SXSW and SDCC)
Design/Fabrication: 15|40 Productions
System: T3 Systems
Paramount+’s The Lodge exhibit at SXSW and San Diego Comic-Con won Best Experiential Design for its blend of physical and digital experiences that prompted one judge to call it “an immersive amusement park designed to engage and enthrall a diverse audience.” Spanning more than 8,500 square feet, the exhibit brought Paramount+’s iconic franchises to life through immersive sets, VR activations, themed bars, and collectible swag. The Lodge successfully deepened fan engagement, creating memorable, shareable experiences that showcased Paramount+’s storytelling prowess.
Best Design Concept
GE Appliances – Profile, a Haier Company
Kitchen & Bath Industries Show
Design/Fabrication: Deckel & Moneypenny
System: Aluvision
The foundation of a successful exhibit is a solid design concept. Deckel & Moneypenny delivered just that for GE Profile in the form of an immersive 50-by-60-foot space that one judge called “smart in every sense of the word.” The design used a brain analogy to represent different areas of the home, with sections dedicated to function, logic, and taste. Key features included a multimedia “Whole Home Wall” diorama, interactive kiosks, an AI-powered laundry room design, and live coffee demonstrations.
Best Design Proposal
ITG Brands
National Association of Convenience Stores
Design: Storylink Creative
System: Aluvision
Not every inspired concept comes to fruition, as evidenced by Storylink Creative’s proposed exhibit for ITG Brands. Spanning 3,500 square feet, the design featured a central tree symbolizing growth and a 20-foot-diameter display highlighting ITG’s offerings. Brand-themed interactive screens and tech-enabled educational experiences — from virtual gaming to interactive quizzes — were designed to convey key messages and foster meaningful engagement. In the words of one judge, “This exhibit is elegant, appealing, and one I wish I could have experienced in person.”
Best Design Detail
Aluvision (LED Keyhole)
Live Design International
Design/Fabrication: Aluvision
System: Aluvision
Aluvision’s 20-by-20-foot booth won Best Design Detail for an immersive keyhole structure comprising Hi-LED P1.9 tiles. Designed as a portal to “limitless creativity,” the 11-foot-tall semi-enclosed element featured synchronized content across curved and flat LED surfaces, enveloping attendees in a floor-to-ceiling visual journey that not only dazzled but also demonstrated Aluvision’s offerings. “This is a well-thought-out concept that aligns with the brand’s identity,” said one judge, while another added, “immersive engagements are inherently attractive, and this is a perfect example.”
Best Student Design
Jacob Hinman – Bemidji State University
BSU’s Jacob Hinman won Best Student Design (and a $500 cash prize, courtesy of TEDA) with a 50-by-50-foot exhibit created to represent Xactlase at the American College of Cardiology. The booth featured modular flexibility, ethereal lighting, and a dramatic cardiac art installation. Central touchscreen kiosks, a theater space, and laser-inspired visuals invited deep engagement, effectively communicating Xactlase’s mission: Improving Patient Care. With Laser Precision. Judges applauded the design as “attractive and immersive,” “cohesive and eye-catching,” and “futuristic and forward-thinking.”
People’s Choice Award
SES Space & Defense
Space Symposium
Design: Brave Exhibits
Fabrication: Classic Exhibits
System: Classic Exhibits
SES Space & Defence’s 20-by-20-foot exhibit at Space Symposium 2024 earned this year’s People’s Choice Award, winning 15 percent of the nearly 1,600 votes cast by the public. Designed by Brave Exhibits with Classic Exhibits components, the booth delivered high impact on a modest budget. It featured immersive tech, including LED video panels, touchscreens, and animated light bars. Custom flooring, gradient lighting, and private meeting areas enhanced brand storytelling and fostered meaningful attendee engagement.
For a full list of winners, visit https://www.experientialdesignauthority.com/post/2025-exsys-award-winners-announced.
