Dutch Design Week (DDW) will once again transform Eindhoven into a city-wide design hub. The annual event takes place from 17 to 25 October 2026. For nine days, the city will host exhibitions, installations, workshops and debates across more than 100 locations.
Theme: R.A.W.
The 26th edition of Dutch Design Week is built around the theme R.A.W., which stands for Rebel Authentic Worth. Organisers say the theme highlights design that is experimental, exploratory and unpolished. A greater emphasis is placed on ideas and processes than on finished products. Designers Emma van der Leest and Anab Jain have been named this year’s DDW Beacons.
More than exhibitions
Around 2,500 designers will showcase their work during the event. In addition to exhibitions, visitors can attend workshops, talks, film screenings, performances and panel discussions. This year’s programme explores topics including sustainability, ecology, healthcare, inclusion, education, digital culture, public space and urban liveability.
Highlights
Among the highlights is the Design Academy Eindhoven Graduation Show, widely regarded as one of the festival’s must-see exhibitions and a place to discover emerging design talent. Visitors can also explore Show Not Show at de Kruisruimte, where an Eindhoven collective returns for a third year with an exhibition centred on a recreated corporate boardroom.
Meanwhile, Forward Furniture, curated by Liv Vaisberg, co-founder of Design Biennale Rotterdam, showcases innovative approaches to furniture design. Across the city, a series of outdoor installations will bring design into public spaces, including interactive wind turbines on Stadhuisplein that allow visitors to make the movement of air visible by turning the structures towards the wind.
This year’s programme combines work from established names and rising talent alike. Renowned studios such as Studio Drift, Formafantasma and Maarten Baas have all featured at DDW in previous years, while recent graduates and emerging designers continue to use the festival as a platform to present fresh ideas and experimental projects.
Eindhoven’s role
Eindhoven has been home to Dutch Design Week since its inception, supported by its strong design and technology ecosystem. The city is also home to Design Academy Eindhoven, whose students and graduates play a prominent role in the festival each year.
The event is organised by the Dutch Design Foundation and returns annually, giving designers a recurring platform to present new concepts, research and prototypes.
Practical information
Most Dutch Design Week venues require a ticket. Visitors are advised to check the official DDW website for ticket options, programme updates and venue information before attending.
With dozens of locations spread across Eindhoven, organisers recommend focusing on specific districts or themes rather than attempting to see everything in a single visit. Visitors should also expect larger crowds during the opening and closing weekends.
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