On 19 November 2025, our projects FRACTAL CHAPEL at the University Hospital Graz and the PALLIATIVE CARE UNITE at the Regional Hospital Südweststeiermark, site Deutschlandsberg, were presented by Oliver Kupfner, Project Lead for both projects, at the "New on nextroom" event at the House of Architecture Graz (HDA). Both projects have been selected for inclusion in the curated nextroom architecture database.⁠
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The selection follows an open call reviewed by an independent jury, assessing architectural quality, urban integration, execution and detailing, sustainable use of resources, and each project’s contribution to architectural and cultural discourse.⁠
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The evening at the HDA offered more than a formal presentation. Moderated by Andreas Ruby, Director of the S AM Swiss Architecture Museum in Basel, together with Zerina Džubur of the HDA Graz, the event created a thoughtful framework for exchange. Andreas Ruby shared insights into the jury discussions and decision-making process, offering direct and valuable feedback on the presented projects.⁠
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Reflecting on the FRACTAL CHAPEL, the jury described it as "a highly controlled project that creates a space of remarkable aesthetic autonomy – achieving an almost ‘homeopathic’ spatial performance on less than 40 square meters. An extremely small area that forms a powerful spatial counterpoint within a hospital complex."⁠
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The evening was marked by openness, appreciation, and inspiring conversations with colleagues, accompanied by a wide range of compelling projects. We are grateful to nextroom, the HDA, and the jury for the careful curation of this enriching event

As 2025 draws to a close, we look back with deep appreciation – for our collaborators, clients, teams, and the many people who shaped this meaningful year.

To mark the season and honor the anniversaries that defined it, we are sharing a special edition of our annual INNOCAD Christmas Nativity – the 20 Years GOLDEN NUGGET Edition.

A small tradition, a crafted moment of reflection, and a way to stay connected: download, cut, assemble – and celebrate the season with us.

We wish you a peaceful holiday season and an inspiring start to 2026.
Thank you for being part of this journey.

The INNOCAD architecture and 13&9 Design Team.

In 2015, Martin Lesjak was named Contract Magazine’s Designer of the Year at the 36th Annual Interiors Awards Breakfast, presented by Contract in New York – one of the most influential recognitions in the international architecture and design community.⁠
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For decades, Contract Magazine shaped professional discourse in the United States, creating a vital platform for architects, interior designers, and product designers alike. With the magazine no longer in publication, the significance of this award has become even clearer: it was part of an institution that helped define design excellence for an entire generation.⁠
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The recognition placed INNOCAD architecture and 13&9 Design on a global stage at a pivotal moment, acknowledging an approach that connected architecture, interiors, and product design long before "transdisciplinarity" became a common term.⁠

As Contract Editor-in-Chief John Czarnecki observed:⁠⁠
"Martin Lesjak elicits power, grace, and emotion from his engaging and sensuous interior spaces. Through both his visionary architecture and interior design, as well as beautiful product design, Lesjak is clearly a design star that others in the profession look up to."⁠
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Beyond the honor itself, this event marked the beginning of lasting relationships, opening doors to collaborations, friendships, and conversations that continue to shape our work today.⁠
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As we reflect on the defining achievements of 2025, this 10-year anniversary adds a deeper dimension to the year’s narrative – reminding us that international recognition is not a sudden event, but the result of dialogue, trust, and collective ambition built over time. Read the full story and revisit the original interview from the Designer of the Year recognition 10 years ago in our newsletter.