TBU Student Wins Prestigious International Design Award
11. June 2026A student from the Product Design Studio at the Faculty of Multimedia Communications (FMC, or FMK, in Czech) of Tomas Bata University in Zlín (TBU) has achieved remarkable international success. Šimon Valovič, a Master’s degree student, received the Winner award in the prestigious SIT Furniture Design Award 2026 for his FARO Furniture collection. The competition annually recognises some of the most outstanding furniture designs and projects from around the world.
Šimon Valovič was the first student to enter an international competition through FMK Design Select, a faculty initiative designed to support student participation in prestigious design awards. He has also become the first student to achieve international recognition through the programme.
First Success for FMK Design Select
The FMK Design Select initiative was established to encourage and support students in submitting their work to leading international competitions. The faculty assists participants with selecting suitable competitions, provides consultations, and covers registration fees, which can often present a barrier for students.
“I am delighted that Šimon is the first student to achieve international recognition through FMK Design Select. This success confirms that supporting participation in prestigious competitions is worthwhile and can open the door to further professional opportunities,” said Jitka Alexová, who was instrumental in establishing and developing the programme.
A Collection Inspired by Portuguese Tradition
The FARO Furniture collection combines timeless indoor and outdoor furniture and accessories, united by the use of solid extruded ceramics, careful observation of the surrounding world and creative experimentation. The collection draws inspiration from the colours and motifs of traditional Portuguese azulejo tiles, whose distinctive features have been transformed into functional and durable objects suitable for both interior and exterior use.
The designer himself views the award as an important affirmation of both his work and the support he has received throughout his studies.
“Success with the FARO Furniture project means far more to me than professional recognition alone – it confirms that the path I have chosen is the right one. I am sincerely grateful to Tomas Bata University in Zlín and the Faculty of Multimedia Communications for the support and opportunities that helped me achieve this success. Every experience like this moves me forward, not only in my career but also in my personal conviction about what I do. I greatly appreciate being able to develop my ideas with enthusiasm and enjoyment in an environment that believes in young people and supports their growth,” said Šimon Valovič.
