Design Next

A monthly studio for high school students to explore different areas of design, create work they’re proud of, and build a portfolio that reflects their creativity, skills, and identity.

Explore Design. Create Bold Work. Build Your Portfolio.

Design Next is a monthly design immersion series for teens in grades 9–12. From October to May, each session dives into a different design field—like fashion, architecture, or interior design—giving students hands-on experience with real design tools and practices. By the end of the series, you’ll have a curated portfolio and the confidence to share your work with the world.

At Design Next, you’ll:

  • Explore different design fields through hands-on activities

  • Create projects that reflect your personal style and perspective

  • Get guidance on documenting and presenting your work

  • Build a portfolio that’s ready for applications, showcases, or exhibitions

  • Present your work in a final pin-up session in May

You’ll also connect with a supportive community of creative teens and learn directly from professional designers and MODA educators.

Why Design Next?

Design has the power to shape our world—but many design industries still lack representation from BIPOC and female creatives. We can only build a just and equitable world when design reflects everyone’s needs. All are welcome to participate in Design Next, but we especially encourage teens who identify as BIPOC and/or female to join us in claiming space, finding voice, and building skills in design. When diverse voices shape design, we get more creative solutions, stronger communities, and a better world for everyone.

Have any questions? Email education@museumofdesign.org

Design Next is where your design future begins. Join us and start building what’s next.

Design Next

All sessions will be held at MODA from 9:30 – 11:30 AM.

  • October 4: Fashion Design - Create a mini wearable or fashion accessory for a character or purpose

  • November 8: Sneaker Design - Design a sneaker that reflects personal identity or performance needs

  • December 13: Interior Design - Explore the world of interior design and design your own space, thinking through layout, color, lighting, and furniture

  • January 10: Video Game Worlds & Characters - Design an environment or character for a game, and build a 3D element of that world

  • February 7: Album Covers - Create an album cover

  • March 7: Architecture - Design and build a physical model like a studio, home, shop, or creative building while using architectural principles

  • April 18: Environments & Nature - Add an eco-feature to the overall model (green roofs, habitats, nature playgrounds)

  • May 2: Pin-Up & Portfolio Presentation- Final gallery-style display of all projects; students create a mini portfolio and share their work through a pin-up session