Discover Downtown Design Hybrid Format for 2020

In light of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and in keeping with physical distancing measures, the event will take place at the Design Quarter in Dubai Design District (d3) across the entire duration of Dubai Design Week from 9-14 November 2020.

Comprising of four key elements, the programme is curated to help both the A&ID community and brands gain inspiration and insight, network and navigate the new design landscape.

At the heart of this year’s activations is Downtown Design’s exhibition, ‘The Shape of Things to Come’, which invites the region’s architects and interior designers to imagine how we will work, live and play in a post-pandemic world. From an open call, selected concepts will be presented as a multi-media exhibition aimed at spotlighting progressive design thinking from the Middle East.

Continuing to support the objectives of brands and buyers in these challenging times, Downtown Design will present a digital showcase allowing design professionals and enthusiast to discover the latest collections and trends. Underpinned by an amplified digital strategy, the virtual event will offer participating brands, country pavilions and designers a range of benefits to help them raise their profile in the Middle East and beyond.

As part of this year’s agile format, Downtown Design will also curate opportunities for brands looking to reconnect on the ground. From pop-up installations and capsule showcases, to creative collaborations – presented within the d3 Quarter and in collaboration with Dubai Design Week – participating brands will benefit from access to both key trade and consumer audience, and will be supported by Downtown Design’s B2B programme.

Over the years, Downtown Design’s eagerly anticipated programme of talks and workshops, The Forum, has brought leading names in design to the Middle East. As technology intermediates the design industry, this year’s talks will be presented digitally and feature regional and international experts spotlighting the new value system that has evolved as positive response to the crisis.