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 includes one session per month from October–May. Each month, focuses on a new theme, like fashion or architecture, giving teens (grades 9–12) hands-on experience in real design practices. By the end of the year, participants will have a curated portfolio and the confidence to share their work with the world.

Have any questions? Email education@museumofdesign.org

What to Expect: Explore different design fields through hands-on activities, create projects that reflect your personal style and point of view, get guidance on how to document and talk about your work, build a portfolio that’s ready for applications, showcases, or exhibitions, and present your work in a final pin-up session in May.

Why Design Next? Gain real experience in the world of design, build a strong, personalized creative portfolio, learn from professional designers and MODA educators, and connect with a community of creative teens like you.

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