The 2024 DesignInspire, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organized by the Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), is set to take place from 5-7 December at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). Under the theme “Design for a Better Tomorrow,” this year’s event brings together over 200 exhibitors from across the globe, including the Czech Republic, France, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Mainland China. It promises to be a melting pot of creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange, offering complimentary admission to the public and design industry professionals.
Strategic Partnership with Maison&Objet
This year marks a milestone for DesignInspire, with a first-time partnership with Maison&Objet, the globally renowned French interior design trade fair. Maison&Objet’s 1,000-square-meter showcase, the Maison&Objet Factory, will feature five thematic zones:
- “Nature, the Muse!”: A collaborative showcase of Chinese and French craftsmanship.
- “Conscious Staging”: Exploring sustainable design concepts.
- “Precious Matters”: Highlighting innovative material applications.
- “Shades of Sustainability”: Focusing on eco-friendly designs.
- “Terra Cosmos”: Envisioning future possibilities in design.
Highlights include: Baccarat’s exclusive collaboration with Hong Kong designer Steve Leung, featuring a blue-and-white porcelain crystal chandelier that epitomizes East-meets-West creativity.
Future Archive: A Cross-Generational Dialogue
The Future Archive, curated by award-winning designer Chilai Howard, bridges veteran Hong Kong design masters with rising talents. Showcasing collaborative works such as:
- Kan Tai-keung (graphic design) with Li Ning (tattoo artist).
- Steve Leung (architectural design) with Chris Cheung (new media artist).
- A life-sized red minibus facade created by iconic Hong Kong sign writer Mak Kam-sang and artist Katol.
This exhibition underscores Hong Kong’s ability to harmonize tradition with innovation.
Interactive Art Tech Zone
Visitors can explore the Art Tech Interactive Zone, featuring:
- Pei Chung’s watercolor-inspired digital art, blending iconic Hong Kong motifs with interactive elements.
- Moon.noon’s immersive installation, “Echoes of Urban Pulse”, utilizing optical and sound data to recreate Hong Kong’s unique urban landscapes through dynamic light displays.
Showcasing Local Design Excellence
The Hong Kong Design On Stage Zone highlights eight award-winning local design teams, including:
- Studio Yellowdot
- Hintegro Limited
- MLKK Design Studio Limited
These exhibits emphasize Hong Kong’s role as a global design hub, blending local characteristics with international influences.
Additionally, the HKDC Pavilion will showcase over 200 award-winning works from the DFA Design Awards, alongside innovative projects from the Fashion Incubation Programme (FIP) and Design Incubation Programme (DIP).
Workshops, Seminars, and Retail Experiences
InnoTalks features over 12 design-focused sessions, covering topics like:
- Xiaohongshu marketing
- Socially responsible design
- Storytelling through Bohemian glass
Workshops include traditional crafts such as bamboo coaster-making and iced lemon tea candle design, while STEAM education zones inspire creativity with AR drawing and programming activities.
Shop Zone offers limited-edition collectibles, allowing visitors to bring a piece of design inspiration home.
Synergy with Concurrent Events
DesignInspire runs alongside Business of IP Asia Forum, Entrepreneur Day, and Start-up Express: International Edition 2024, creating opportunities for business matching and cross-industry collaboration.
Driving Innovation for a Better Tomorrow
Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director of the HKTDC, emphasized the event’s importance:
“DesignInspire underscores Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West cultural hub, fostering innovation and driving the growth of cultural and creative industries.”
With a focus on sustainability, cutting-edge technology, and global collaboration, DesignInspire 2024 is a must-attend event for design professionals, enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration for a better tomorrow.
