Best in Show 2026
In recognition of our longstanding relationship with the University of Northampton, we had the honour of attending and judging their Graphic Design degree show. Putting your work on show for the public and industry to see is a rite of passage, marking the end of one chapter and hopefully the start of another in the creative industries.
There was a high standard of work on show and choosing a winner wasn’t easy. But after much discussion and careful consideration, we have given the Best in Show award to Connor King.
Connor’s enthusiasm and love for design shone through and this was reflected in a portfolio full of ideas. We were particularly impressed by his final major project which was a real labour of love and demonstrated a deep level of research.
A few of Connor’s projects are below, but you can see more on his website.
Tuborg
Green Noise
“Tuborg Green Noise is a campaign developed in a team of two in response to the D&AD brief for Tuborg. The project transforms the familiar sounds of a Tuborg beer cracking open, pouring, and fizz into a calming auditory experience. By repurposing these sounds as “green noise,” the project positions the brand as a moment of relief. This extends into the packaging, which is designed to enhance and emphasise these sensory cues, turning each interaction into a calming, immersive experience.”
Final Hour
Climate Awareness
“This solo project was developed to create an education experience on the topic of climate change. Final Hour is an interactive, location-based experience exploring the urgency of climate change through 60 installations, each one minute apart. Guided by an app, participants move between each point, where real-time climate data is revealed. As they progress, abstract statistics become a physical experience, highlighting the accelerating impact of the climate crisis, while melting typography reflects rising temperatures and environmental instability.”
Final Major Project
AI & US
“This solo project explores how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping design and redefining the role of the designer. Developed over 16 weeks as my final major university project, I produced a 146 page book across seven chapters investigating authorship, control and originality within contemporary practice. Working from a self initiated brief, I carried out in depth primary and secondary research, including industry outreach and interviews. This project became something I was fully invested in, allowing me to build a strong understanding of AI tools and apply them to a high standard alongside digital, editorial and physical making processes. It brings together everything I have learned throughout my degree into one considered outcome that I am extremely proud of, and I am currently in the process of producing high quality printed copies of the book.”
