Our history
and DNA

01 / CONTEXT

Design never stands still, so why should your education?

In 2016, while Barcelona was establishing itself as one of the leading international references in design and creativity, we realised something obvious yet overlooked: design education had become static. The traditional system still demanded rigid timetables and physical attendance, while the profession was already operating in a global, digital, and flexible way. We were not born to reinvent design, but to build a school that works the way the real world works.

This is how ESDESIGN, the Barcelona School of Design, was born. With one clear objective: to transform the way design is taught.

02 / CONNECTION

Why should a school be a place, when it should be a connection between people?

03 / PHILOSOPHY

A new way to study design

We were born to respond to a new way of living. We understood that design is not about kilometres, but about momentum, and that students needed a school that adapted to their lives, rather than a life that had to be sacrificed for school. That is why, at ESDESIGN, we chose to invest in an online design education that integrates seamlessly into your day-to-day life.

04 / METHODOLOGY

Flexible, connected, and real methodology

We replaced closed doors with a dynamic, modular, and accessible system available from anywhere in the world. We created a methodology where disruption is a working tool: facing real briefs, guided by professionals who are actively leading the industry today.

Real data from a real community

Today, we are an international network of more than 9,000 students across 50 countries. But beyond the numbers, we focus on the impact of our methodology:

54%

Professional progress

54% of our students achieve a promotion after their time at the school.

37%

Entrepreneurial spirit

37% set up their own studio, applying innovation as a means and renewal as an end.

100%

Expert insight

100% of our faculty are active professionals who connect emerging talent with the real needs of the sector.

Join us on
our journey

2016 The Beginning

School Founded: We were born in Barcelona as the first 100% online design school, with the creative DNA of a city in constant motion.

2018 International Recognition

Diseña México National Design Award: We won first prize in Product Design and Digital Modelling, strengthening our global reach.

2020 Evolution and Community

Strategic Rebranding: We redesigned our brand around the concept of movement and constant evolution ("Scroll Movement"). First FESesDESIGN: We launched our own festival to celebrate design hand in hand with our community.

2022 Multidisciplinary Excellence

Financial Magazine Ranking: We entered the Top 10 in four key categories (Fashion, Art, Design, and Interior Design). LABesDESIGN: We launched innovation labs alongside leading names such as Serifalaris and InÈDIT (circular design).

2023 A Harvest of Awards

Anuaria and ILBA Awards: First national prize in Motion Graphics and two gold awards at the International Latino Book Awards in Hollywood. Second FESesDESIGN: We established our annual gathering as a key date for the sector.

2024 Leadership and Partnerships

TOP 1 in the El Mundo Ranking: Our Master’s in Digital Graphic Design is recognised as the best in Spain. LABesDESIGN with IKEA: We collaborated with the Swedish giant on real design challenges. Lápiz de Acero Award: We were honoured in Editorial Design in Colombia.

2025 Consolidation and Prestige

Forbes Milestone: Recognised among the best schools in the country in Branding and Fashion. ADG LAUS and Península Awards: Top honours in Editorial Design and Interior Design. LABesDESIGN with VICIO: Disruptive co-creation with the brand of the moment.

2026 10th Anniversary

A Decade of Innovation: We celebrate 10 years of staying true to our pillars: creative, inclusive, professional, and challenging. A story that continues to be designed day by day.