Upali Nanda has been named the 2026 recipient of the prestigious IIDA ICON Award by the International Interior Design Association. The honor recognizes her exceptional contributions to interior design and her commitment to positioning design as a driver of health, well-being, and human-centered innovation.
The Rise of Evidence-Based Design
The design industry is increasingly embracing evidence-based approaches, where research informs how spaces impact human behavior, healing, and productivity. Leaders like Upali Nanda are at the forefront of this shift, bridging the gap between academic research and real-world application in the built environment.
Operational Details: Leadership and Industry Influence
As Partner and Executive Vice President at HKS Inc., she has played a pivotal role in redefining how design strategy integrates with research.
Her contributions include:
- Advancing evidence-based design methodologies
- Exploring the relationship between environment, perception, and healing
- Promoting culturally responsive and inclusive design practices
- Leading global conversations on innovation in the built environment
Her work continues to influence projects across healthcare, commercial, and institutional sectors.
Economic & Social Impact: Designing for Better Outcomes
By focusing on human-centered design, her approach contributes to improved health outcomes, enhanced user experiences, and more efficient spaces. This has significant implications for industries such as healthcare and workplace design, where environment directly affects performance and well-being.
Share your work with Architecture Pulse. Upload your PDF below.