Renowned for its remarkable cleanliness, strict laws, and urban planning that balances modernity with nature, Singapore is a global financial powerhouse. It boasts one of the busiest ports in the world and a thriving economy. The city-state is also famous for its diverse and multicultural society, where Chinese, Malay, Indian, and other communities coexist harmoniously, reflected in its vibrant festivals, languages, and culinary scene.
Singapore is also home to one of Asia’s most prestigious and celebrated design festivals: the Singapore Design Week (SDW). This year, the SDW will return from September 26 to October 6. The event will feature a dynamic and engaging lineup, promising to captivate audiences from around the globe.
The festival has come a long way since its inception, evolving into a must-attend event on the global design calendar. As a leading platform for showcasing creativity, innovation, and design excellence, it has earned its reputation as the continent’s most anticipated design fest.
The main objectives of SDW are to honor the richness and diversity of design, promote Singapore as a design capital, and encourage the exchange of ideas among design professionals and the broader public. It aims to inspire a new generation of designers and creators who are ready to make a positive impact on the world.
© DesignSingapore Council
Photograph: FIND – Design Fair AsiaFIND – Design Fair Asia and EMERGE @ FIND 2023
What to expect at the Festival?
Organized by the Design Singapore Council (DSG), which aims to position Singapore as an innovation-driven economy and a beloved city through design by 2025, this year’s Singapore Design Week (SDW) is themed “People of Design.” The theme highlights the human element behind every design, focusing on the roles of designers, creators, and the community in shaping our world. During SDW 2024, visitors will explore the significant contributions of visionaries who have impacted society and those working to enhance everyone’s quality of life.
The theme also encourages public participation and creativity, with several events designed to engage the wider community. From open-call design competitions to collaborative projects, SDW 2024 will offer numerous opportunities for the public to get involved and contribute to the design process.
SDW 2024 will be held at key locations across Singapore, including the National Design Centre, Bras Basah Bugis, Marina Bay, and Orchard. Each of these locations will offer a unique experience, reflecting the individual charm and character of the local community.
These districts will come alive with vibrant displays, interactive exhibits, and pop-up events that celebrate the creativity and diversity of Singapore’s design scene. From guided tours to hands-on workshops, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can expect to find immersive installations, thought-provoking exhibitions, and interactive workshops that highlight the latest in design thinking and practice.
The collective behind Bras Basah.Bugis Design District © Singapore Design Week
Highlights of the 11-day celebration
Standing strong on its three pillars- Design Futures, Design Marketplace and Design Impact, SDW will be taking you on a journey starting from exploring the future of design through Singapore’s forward-looking lens and uniting lifestyle trends from around the world to inspiring with innovative and impactful design solutions that tackle society’s biggest questions.
One of the most anticipated events at SDW 2024 is FIND – Design Fair Asia, the continent’s largest design trade fair, at Marina Bay Sands from 26 to 28 September 2024, which will bring together leading designers, brands, and industry professionals from across the globe, showcasing a diverse range of design products, from furniture and lighting to textiles and home accessories.
Discover the heart of design in Asia © FIND- Design Fair Asia
EMERGE @ FIND, Dsg’s talent showcase dedicated to Southeast Asian contemporary design, curated by Suzy Annetta of Design Anthology, will return with the theme of “These Precious Things”. Over 50 emerging, established, and fresh designers from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam will present new works that explore ideas of both internal and external value.
Photograph: Mark Cocksedge | Hybrid Basketry Lamps by Gabriel Tan
Notable speakers & thought leaders from around the world like Cathy Hackl (CEO, Spatial Dynamics), Debra Langley (Venture Partner, Lyra Ventures), Aric Chen (General and Artistic Director, Het Nieuwe Instituut), and Dsg’s Tamsin Greulich-Smith (Director, School of X) will share their insights, providing valuable perspectives on how design can address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.
Left to right: Cathy Hackl, Aric Chen, Debra Langley, and Tamsin Greulich-Smith. Photos courtesy of respective speakers. Source: Architect & Interiors India
In addition to the main events, SDW 2024 will offer a range of other activities, including networking sessions, talks, and special tours. These events will provide opportunities for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and gain deeper insights into the world of design.
Sustainability, Inclusivity & Tech at the Forefront
SDW 2024 will showcase a wide array of innovative design solutions that address current and future challenges. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, initiatives showcased at the festival will include eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and projects that promote social inclusion. These designs aim to create a positive impact on the community, demonstrating how design can be a force for good. By highlighting these initiatives, the event aims to inspire designers to consider the broader impact of their work and to create solutions that are both inclusive and sustainable.
There will also be workshops focused on digital design, where visitors can explore the latest software and technologies used in the design industry. Another highlight will be the innovative installations that explore the intersection of design and technology. These installations will feature cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and 3D printing, offering visitors a glimpse into the future of design.
Nathan Yong and a rendering of the Design Pavilion at Millenia Walk. (Photo Credits: by Jovian Lim)
Interviews with designers and curators will provide additional insights into the creative processes behind these projects, offering a deeper understanding of the ideas and concepts that drive innovation in design. These interactive sessions will provide valuable opportunities for learning and creativity, allowing participants to expand their design horizons.
How to get a seamless festival experience ?
Attending Singapore Design Week 2024 is an experience not to be missed. To participate, visitors can register for events and workshops online, with many activities being free or offering early-bird discounts. It’s recommended to plan your visit by reviewing the festival schedule and prioritizing the events and exhibitions that interest you most.
Navigating the festival is made easy with a comprehensive guide available on the SDW website and at key locations. Public transport is convenient, and many of the festival’s main venues are within walking distance of each other.
Something for everyone
The much-awaited event is more than just a celebration of design; it’s an invitation to explore one’s creative potential and to be inspired by the visionaries who are shaping the future. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or simply someone with a passion for creativity, SDW 2024 offers something for everyone. Be sure to stay updated with future events by following SDW’s official channels, and mark your calendar for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of design excellence.
References
https://www.architectandinteriorsindia.com/ news/ heres-all-what-you-can-expect-at-the-singapore-design-week-2024
https://www.stirworld.com/ reflect-singapore-design-week-2024
https://designsingapore.org/ events/ singapore-design-week-2024-design-community-open-call/
https://sdw.designsingapore.org/
https://designsingapore.org/ events/ singapore-design-week-2024-design-community-open-call/
https://designsingapore.org/ news/ designsingapore-council-announces-main-highlights-and-creative-concept-for-singapore-design-week-2024/