Returning for its 12th edition from June 4 to 7, 2025, Design Shanghai continues to cement its reputation as a premier platform showcasing China’s cutting-edge design and innovation to the world. Set within the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center, the event brings together local and international talents to celebrate creativity across furniture, lighting, lifestyle, and beyond. With over 600 design pieces on display, this year’s edition promises to highlight not only the technical mastery and aesthetic sophistication of contemporary design but also a more human-centred approach that reflects evolving global trends.
A vibrant platform for east-west design exchange
Design Shanghai has, since its inception, been dedicated to bridging design cultures from East and West, spotlighting Chinese innovation while welcoming global influences. Zhuo Tan, event director, emphasizes that the 2025 show will deepen this mission with a renewed focus on the human experience.
“Over the past 12 years, Design Shanghai has grown while remaining youthful at heart, consistently embracing ever-evolving challenges with unwavering commitment,” Tan said. “At the same time, we stay true to our original mission of being a bridge for east-west design exchange. This year, we will place greater emphasis on human-centred design, making the exhibition more personal and meaningful.”
The exhibition categories span a wide range of disciplines including furniture, lighting, kitchens, bathrooms, system design, lifestyle products, and materials innovation. This breadth reflects the dynamic evolution of design in China, a market increasingly influencing global trends.
A stellar international and regional presence
Design Shanghai 2025 boasts one of the strongest international line-ups in its history. Among the highlights are Swiss furniture brand Vitra, French glassware icon Lalique, and German ceramics leader Villeroy & Boch. Italian brand Antoniolupi and Belgian furniture company Bulo also showcase their latest creations, alongside a remarkable roster of Japanese brands such as Noritake, Karimoku Case, Foxx Chair, and Mori Mori.
Particularly notable is the spotlight on Asia, with 33 Japanese brands and designers featured across independent showcases and curated exhibitions. One standout is Beyond Craft Japan, an exhibition celebrating Japanese craftsmanship from its traditional roots to contemporary expressions. Visitors can explore the works of design studios like Acrylic Masako Ban and Atelier Oyu, gaining insight into the country’s rich artisanal heritage and modern reinterpretations.
Adding to the international flavor, Design Shanghai debuts the FRONT 100 showcase, presented by Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce. This exhibition presents the work of 23 emerging Thai designers, offering a fresh, forward-looking perspective on Thailand’s contemporary design scene and emphasizing Southeast Asia’s growing influence in the global design landscape.
Spotlight on Chinese design evolution and craftsmanship
While Design Shanghai is a global celebration, its heart remains firmly rooted in China. Zhuo Tan notes that the show has been pivotal in elevating Chinese designers and brands onto the world stage. “Over the past 12 years, Design Shanghai has pioneered Chinese design exhibitions, witnessing modern design development in China,” Tan explained. “During this time, the Chinese design industry has entered a vibrant and flourishing era, with numerous designers and brands emerging in the market and expressing their voices.”
The 2025 event continues to spearhead this momentum by championing both trendsetting and enduring design values. Reflecting current consumer preferences, there is a strong emphasis on craftsmanship, longevity, and designs that resist fleeting trends. In addition to the extensive product displays, Design Shanghai will host special features led by Chinese artists, designers, and craftspeople, including the show’s first-ever Collectible Design and Art exhibition. This new segment aims to tap into a growing market for personalized and unique living spaces by presenting limited-edition paintings, sculptures, installations, photography, furniture, and craftworks.
Collectible design and art: Merging tradition with innovation
The Collectible Design and Art exhibition offers a curated exploration of how interiors can be transformed through singular art and design pieces. It also reflects a commitment to nurturing China’s creative scene by showcasing experimental and contemporary practices.
Featured participants include Chinese studio Pinwu, known for creating modern works rooted in traditional Chinese crafts, and the Yanshan Art Center, which integrates ceramic materials with cutting-edge technologies like 3D printing and CNC carving.
Other contributors to the exhibition are ChengYan Lacquerware Studio, recognized for its revival of lacquer craft, and the Mexican design group Katz Studio, bringing an international perspective that highlights cross-cultural dialogue.
Together, these designers demonstrate how collectible art can serve as both an aesthetic and cultural touchstone in modern interiors, enriching personal spaces while fostering the growth of innovative craftsmanship.
Shaping the future: Global design conference
Alongside exhibitions, Design Shanghai will also host the Global Design Conference, gathering industry experts to discuss the critical role design plays in shaping society’s future. This platform aims to stimulate thought leadership around sustainability, innovation, and social impact within design disciplines.
As China’s design ecosystem continues to flourish and engage with global trends, this conference underlines the show’s commitment to not only showcasing products but also nurturing ideas that influence how design evolves and serves humanity.
Design Shanghai 2025 promises to be a landmark event for anyone interested in the intersection of culture, innovation, and craftsmanship. By balancing an international showcase with a deep celebration of Chinese design, the exhibition continues to advance its mission as a vibrant forum for creative exchange.For more details about the event and participating designers, visit the official Design Shanghai website. The show will take place from June 4 to 7, 2025, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition and Convention Center.
