The German Design Council has awarded its Iconic Awards 2019: Innovative Architecture prize to the Smart City Laguna Innovation Hub. Laguna is the world’s first inclusive smart city and is designed and built by Planet Smart City.

The international competition is held on an annual basis and recognises the most innovative architectural and design projects, with the awards ceremony taking place on 7th October at the Pinakothek der Moderne art gallery in Munich.

The Innovation Hub has a floor area of 1,000 square metres and is the social heart of Smart City Laguna, as well as a showroom for our technology and social innovation practices. It is a place where citizens, whether residents of Laguna or living in the wider region, can experiment with and learn about the smart solutions available in the city.

It is also home to Planet Institute’s library, cinema and free activities such as technology, English, entrepreneurship and craft courses. It has free WiFi and shared spaces that can be used for coworking, as well as being available for group events.

German Design Council

Founded in 1953 by the Bundestag, the German Design Council is one of the world’s leading centres for communication, design and brand knowledge. The organization currently has over 300 member companies with the mission to support and enhance the design experience in Germany’s economic sector.

Smart City Laguna

Designed to be home for 25,000 people, Smart City Laguna epitomises a new way of life: connected, sustainable and collaborative, with a focus on community relationships and resident wellbeing.

Built on a ​​330-hectare site and situated 20 minutes from the most beautiful beaches in Ceará state, the smart city is located in one of the fastest-growing regions in Brazil: the municipality of São Gonçalo do Amarante, 55 km from Fortaleza.

Due to its proximity to the world-class Pecém Port Complex, the region is experiencing a  significant economic upswing, as well as being a popular destination for tourists.