Powerhouse and David Jones establish annual Australian Design Commission

Image: Skeehan Studio

Powerhouse and David Jones have established an annual Australian Design Commission. This partnership aims to invest into the next generation of Australian designers by providing them with the opportunity to design a prototype of a new product for the contemporary Australian home.

The selected designer will receive AU$50,000 and a 9-month timeframe to develop the prototype. The successful commission will receive support from Powerhouse that includes curatorial support, access to the Powerhouse Collection, access to workshop space, digital content development, and marketing and communications support. David Jones will offer support through mentorship, retail media support and/or social media support. The prototype will be featured in a window display at the David Jones Elizabeth St Store in Sydney.

The 2025 recipient is Tom Skeehan, Canberra-based designer who for over a decade has been pushing the boundaries of industrial design through speculative and curatorial projects. Skeehan’s winning concept, What We Keep, is a sculptural glass cabinet that presents the personal and emotional things we choose to keep in our homes. It is designed to be viewed from all sides, as both artwork and furniture — a place to display special objects to reflect on their meaning. The concept features a wrapped timber frame with textured glass made in collaboration with Canberra Glassworks and local makers.

Applications reopen in 2026, learn more at powerhouse.com.au/david-jones-design-commission