As an interior designer, you understand inspiration. After all, you spend your life creating environments that foster this spirit in others. But how do you kindle your own creativity? What catches your imagination and helps you stay innovative?
Your individual practices may vary from other designers, but you still need to know what your peers are doing if you want to stimulate your ingenuity. No one ever got ahead of the curve without knowing where that curve was headed. Whether you choose to go with or against that movement is up to you, but you need to know your industry’s general direction.
That’s why trade shows are so important. They help you engage with other designers in an invigorating, expressive environment. From networking opportunities to inspirational speakers and more, you’re sure to find something for you at one of these events. The following four are among the most exciting opportunities for interior designers to further develop their craft.
1. Interior Design Show (Toronto, Jan. 19-22, 2017)
No matter your area of specialization, you’re sure to find something interesting at Toronto’s Interior Design Show. IDS Toronto is an annual showcase for cutting edge installations that also offers plenty of opportunity for professional development. The 2017 edition looks to continue this trend, with an enriching professional trade day, a breathtaking opening party, and an inspiring talk from preeminent architect David Adjaye all in the works.
But those are just some of the amazing components of IDS Toronto 2017. Other amazing features include a showcase of professionals who create using locally sourced wood, a limited-run exhibition for national and international designers, and a factory installation from LightForm PARTISANS. With so many vibrant workers from around the world, this event is not to be missed.
2. Maison& Objet (Paris, Jan. 20-24, Sept. 8-12, 2017)
If you want to take in the splendour and romanticism of Paris, Maison& Objet may be just the ticket for you. This biannual trade organization bills itself as a “global experience,” with hundreds of designers and creatives showcasing lighting, furniture, fabrics, kitchenware, and much more.
This year’s main attractions include a minimalist program that will highlight the theme of silence, talks from over 70 industry experts, and awards for emerging designers and industry leaders alike. With so much to discover, the event is sure to captivate more than 80,000 visitors.
3. Impact Summit 2017 (Toronto, May 8-9, 2017)
This joint conference from the American Society of Interior Designers and the Interior Designers of Canada has only been around for two years, but it’s already provoked important discussions in the design world. It looks to repeat this feat again in 2017 with an event centredon design that supports migration and diversity. Unlike other industry events, the Impact Summit doesn’t just focus on interior designers, but also includes representatives from government departments, non-profit organizations, universities, and more. Toronto design professionals can’t afford to miss out on this unique, scintillating event.
4. IIDA Leaders Breakfast (Various Cities, 2017)
Since 1989, the International Interior Design Association’s Leaders Breakfast has grown from one event in a single city to eight gatherings that take place across North America. The gatherings represent an ideal networking opportunity, as designers can discuss their practice, develop their professional reputations, or simply ponder the financial aspects of the industry.
Toronto, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, New York, and Atlanta all hosted events in 2016. Breakfasts took place throughout the spring and fall, and each celebrated internationally reputed honorees. While the 2017 schedule has yet to be released, designers can anticipate an exciting slate.
