3 incredible highlights not to miss at DesignInspire 2024

One of the main attractions at DesignInspire 2024 is the Maison&Objet Design Factory. Marking its debut exclusive showcase in Hong Kong, the pavilion emphasises ‘conscious design’, inviting visitors to explore the works of over 120 brands and designers from Europe and Asia across five distinct zones.

The first section, ‘Nature, the Muse!’, curated by Jiang Qiong Er, highlights a dialogue between 12 French high-end craftsmen and 9 Chinese artisans, showcasing excellence in various materials. Next, ‘Conscious Staging’ presents a thoughtfully designed residential space by Normal Studio, demonstrating the possibilities of sustainable living. The ‘Precious Matters’ zone features an elegant outdoor French banquet designed by Quentin Hirsinger, founder of ‘MateriO’, and Pauline Vidal, an expert in innovative materials, displaying unusual materials with conscious properties; while ‘Shades of Sustainability’ showcases 13 new innovative pieces in a vibrant space created by Uchronia. Finally, ‘Terra Cosmos: spaces full of future promise’, led by long-time curator Elizabeth Leriche, immerses visitors in a poetic exploration of space and time tribute to the universe and planets, through a selection of over 100 brands and designers.

A celebration of design and innovation, the Maison&Objet Design Factory promises an immersive experience that inspires attendees to consider sustainability in their daily lives.

Another must-see pavilion is the Future Archive, curated by award-winning Hong Kong interdisciplinary art worker and designer Chilai Howard, who brings together 14 established design masters and emerging designers/artists from Hong Kong to showcase individual and crossover works that push the boundaries of creativity.

See what happens when internationally-renowned graphic designer Kan Tai-keung joins forces with professional tattoo artist Li Ning or discover the dynamic interplay of architectural insights and new media art as architect Steve Leung works alongside installation artist and audiovisual performer Chris Cheung from Xplor.

House in a striking transparent acrylic structure, the Future Archive is a unique ‘cabinet’ designed to facilitate interaction and discovery. This multi-layered space invites visitors to explore the creative processes of the featured artists. Each drawer reveals various stages of their work, showcasing materials, sketches, and finished pieces, allowing attendees to appreciate the journey from concept to creation. This design not only emphasises the artistic process but also encourages a dialogue between the past, present, and future of design.

Immerse yourself in the world of art and technology like never before at the Interactive Art Tech Experience & Drawing Zone. Developed in collaboration with local watercolour artist Pei Chung and generative artist Moon.Noon, this area uses responsive technologies and stunning visuals to encourage self-expression, inviting visitors to become co-creators in the artistic process.

Explore Pei Chung’s Dazzling Dreams, where visitors are invited to co-create a vibrant future shaped by design and innovation – think jellyfish drifting out of the water and pineapple buns soaring above in the sky – or feel the Echoes of Urban Pulse by Moon.Noon, which comprises two installations: Urban Mirage and Streetlight Sonata. Each piece will give visitors a whole new perspective of Hong Kong with mesmerising visual and auditory experiences, only available at DesignInspire.

Beyond these three incredible highlights, DesignInspire 2024 will also feature the InnoTalks series, where industry experts will share insights on the latest design trends and innovative practices, as well as STEAM courses and creative and traditional craftsmanship workshops offering hands-on experiences like AR song composing and bamboo weaving. Don’t forget to stop by the Shop Zone to get your hands on limited and deluxe edition pieces from designers and brands, and visit the Academy to see the talents of the new generation of creatives.

With these incredible highlights and so many activities, DesignInspire 2024 is the perfect opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired. Free pre-registration is now available, so secure your spot today! The event is organised by HKTDC and proudly sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA).