Meet the ED Awards 25 Jury – Julia Kahl (Germany)

Julia Kahl is a designer, editor, and publisher whose career is defined by a passion for typography, editorial design, and printed materials. After studying Communication Design at the Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences, Julia settled in Karlsruhe, where she has been living and working since 2007.

As the co-founder of Slanted Publishers, an independent design, publishing, and media house established in 2014 alongside Lars Harmsen, Julia is deeply involved in all aspects of the creative process. Slanted Publishers is widely recognized for its contributions to typography, graphic design, and visual culture through projects such as Slanted Magazine, the news platform slanted.de, and a range of international publications. These works have earned significant global recognition for their innovative approach and commitment to quality.

Beyond her publishing work, Julia values cultural exchange and actively shares her expertise as a lecturer in Typography and Editorial Design, a speaker at international conferences, and a juror for prestigious design competitions worldwide. Her career reflects a dedication to fostering creativity, collaboration, and dialogue within the design community.

Julia Kahl’s dedication to design as both a creative and cultural practice ensures that her contributions to the European Design Awards jury will continue to uphold the competition’s legacy of celebrating excellence and innovation.

Q: What excites you most about European design today?
A: Through my travels for Slanted Magazine, I regularly meet designers and creatives in their studios and ateliers, conducting interviews about their work, perspectives, and personal inspirations. These encounters reveal the joys and challenges of creative work, as well as the diverse approaches and cultural contexts in which design is perceived and practiced across Europe. European design is fascinating because it can be bold and outspoken, yet also subtle and understated. We have a rich history to draw from and an even more exciting future to look forward to. I’m thrilled to see the extraordinary work we will be evaluating as part of the jury this year.

Q: Is there a particular trend or approach in design that you think represents the future of creativity in Europe?
A: One emerging trend that stands out is the deep integration of sustainability and social responsibility into design processes. Designers are increasingly moving beyond aesthetics to address pressing global issues such as climate change, inclusivity, and ethical production. This conscious approach is shaping the future of European creativity, where design serves as a tool for meaningful impact. Additionally, the blending of technology with traditional craftsmanship is creating innovative results. By reimagining heritage through a modern lens, European designers are setting the stage for a future that balances tradition with cutting-edge innovation.

Q: What advice would you give to designers aspiring to stand out in a competition like the European Design Awards?
A: Authenticity is key. Focus on creating work that reflects your unique perspective and values rather than following trends. Judges are drawn to projects that tell a compelling story, so be clear about your concept and the message behind it. Additionally, attention to detail and craftsmanship can make your work unforgettable. Don’t shy away from experimentation—bold ideas often leave the strongest impressions. Finally, ensure your presentation is impeccable. Great design deserves to be showcased in a way that does justice to its quality and thoughtfulness.