Experience Dutch Design Week: A Living Lab of Imagination and Innovation

Celebrating 25 Years of Innovation at Dutch Design Week

This October, Eindhoven, known for its rich industrial history, will transform into a vibrant hub of creativity as it celebrates the 25th edition of Dutch Design Week (DDW). This milestone event, running from October 18 to 26, 2025, will host over 2,500 designers showcasing their talents across 120 venues. With an expected attendance of around 350,000 visitors, DDW promises insights into the future of design under the theme “Past. Present. Possible.”

Meet the Minds Behind the Designs

At the helm of this year’s celebrations is co-founder Miriam van der Lubbe. Her vision and leadership have been instrumental in transforming DDW from a local initiative into one of the world’s most influential design gatherings. As she puts it, this year’s theme serves as an invitation to reflect not just on past achievements but also to envision future possibilities in design. Unlike previous years filled with nostalgia, this edition encourages designers to critique their workings and aspire to innovate further.

A Platform for Creative Collaboration

DDW sets itself apart through the sheer diversity and energy of its events. It's a fertile ground where the boundaries between exhibition and experiment are beautifully blurred. The event aligns various disciplines, nurturing an environment ripe for collaboration amongst designers, technologists, and environmentalists. Major brands like HEMA and Vattenfall will introduce their latest projects, alongside pioneering design schools from across Europe participating in the ‘Class of 25’ showcase, highlighting the fresh voices of tomorrow’s design leaders.

Highlights to Watch For

This year’s features include ‘Bridging Minds,’ an exhibition at the Van Abbemuseum curated by van der Lubbe herself. Here, visitors will encounter around one hundred pieces from notable designers like Hella Jongerius and Formafantasma, all illustrating the profound connectivity that design can foster. Another standout segment is the 'Grand Projects,' where substantial outdoor installations will dominate the landscape, inviting participants to ponder the grand-scale implications of design in our society.

What the Future Holds

The commitment to inquiry and experimentation at DDW represents a dedication to tackling pressing global issues such as climate change and digital innovation. As van der Lubbe notes, “We don’t wait for the future; we design it together.” This collaborative spirit underscores a collective ambition among designers to provoke thought and action towards meaningful societal change.

Get Involved, Experience Design's Evolution

Whether you're a design aficionado or curious about contemporary art and innovation, attending Dutch Design Week is sure to inspire. The essence of design as a critical driver for societal change is palpable in every exhibition and conversation. So, prepare to immerse yourself in a living lab of ideas, questions, and potentials.