Designing Tomorrow

What happens when designers, educators, artists, architects, innovators and creative thinkers come together to imagine what's next?

Design Futures is the opening two-day programme of the Festival of Design Aotearoa, bringing together leading voices from Aotearoa and around the world to explore how design shapes our cities, communities, cultures, learning environments and everyday lives.

Across inspiring keynote presentations, thought-provoking panel discussions, exhibitions and networking opportunities, the programme explores topics including Indigenous design, accessibility, architecture, placemaking, education, typography, creativity, artificial intelligence, public leadership, material culture and the future of design.

Featuring Professor Tom Eslinger, Annie Marrs, Ellen Young, Minnie Baragwanath, Tyrone Ohia, Dr Johnson Witehira, Kris Sowersby, Mikael Sorknæs, Georgina Clarke, HotHaus, winners of the 2026 DINZ Best Awards, and other leading designers, educators and creative practitioners from across Aotearoa and around the world.

Created for design professionals, architects, artists, educators, students, business leaders, public sector organisations and anyone passionate about creativity and innovation, Design Futures is an opportunity to discover new ideas, build meaningful connections and be inspired by the people shaping the future through design.

Your two-day pass includes access to the complete programme, catered morning tea, lunch and afternoon refreshments on both days, plus networking drinks at the conclusion of each day.