Ceramic Tiles of Italy is seeking entries for its 17th annual Design Competition. Designed to recognize contemporary American design featuring Italian ceramic tiles, the contest is open to North American architects and interior designers who have worked on residential, commercial and/or institutional projects completed between January 2005 and January 2010. Entries may also be submitted for domestic and international new construction and renovation projects.

A panel of design experts will judge the projects based on their creativity, functionality and aesthetic appeal. The jury will consider the overall design of the project, innovative use of tile, tile design, quality of installation, the degree that tile enhances the setting and the project’s sustainable attributes.

Winners in each category will receive a cash prize of $5,000 and a trip to Coverings 2010, set to be held in Orlando, Fla., April 27-30, 2010. In addition, an exhibit of the winning projects will be on display in the Italian pavilion during the show. Winners will also win a five-day trip to Cersaie 2010, the world’s largest exhibition for ceramic tile and bathroom furnishings, and join a delegation of leading design media journalists. An additional $1,000 will be shared by the winning contractor/distributor team, Ceramic Tiles of Italy noted.

Deadline is Feb 19, 2010. For more information, visitwww.tilecompetition.com.