Design Shanghai returns for its 12th edition from June 4-7, 2025, at the Shanghai World Expo Exhibition Center, reaffirming its status as Asia’s leading design show. Over the years, it has propelled China’s design industry to new heights, showcasing both globally renowned and independent domestic brands on an international stage.
A Commitment to Innovation and Craftsmanship
Since its inception, Design Shanghai has nurtured Chinese designers, many of whom now lead contemporary design. The 2025 edition features over 600 design masterpieces and seven curated sections: TALENTS, neooold, Re:Materialize, Made in JDZ, Beyond Craft Japan, Materials First, and the newly introduced Collectible Design & Art. Event Director Zhuo Tan emphasizes the show’s influence:
“Design Shanghai has pioneered Chinese design exhibitions, witnessing its evolution into a dynamic industry. We remain dedicated to shaping the Asian design ecosystem and leading modern design trends.”
Consumer attitudes in China are shifting towards longevity and value in design. The exhibition reflects this, showcasing a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation.
Collectible Design & Art: A New Highlight
Debuting in 2025, this feature will bring together limited-edition artworks from galleries and designers worldwide. With a growing interest in collectible design among Chinese collectors and enterprises, the showcase provides a professional platform for global and domestic talent, including Ivory Gate Gallery, Langblink, and Studio M.Noir.
TALENTS: Fostering Emerging Designers
Celebrating its fifth year, TALENTS continues to support young designers. The 2025 theme, ‘Confront Conflicts, ’ challenges creators to respond to modern global tensions through design. Curated by Frank Chou, the exhibition highlights past participants such as Yif Design and Xiangzhi, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing future talent.
neooold: Honoring Tradition, Embracing Modernity
Marking its five-year milestone, neooold presents ‘Mass Wonders’, a celebration of handcrafted art. Curator Chen Min draws from the Chinese proverb “learning from the past to understand the present”, featuring artisans skilled in lacquer, ceramics, metalwork, and weaving. Notable participants include Jiang Sheng and Lin Yuming.
Made in Jingdezhen: A New Creative Hub
Jingdezhen, historically the world’s ceramics capital, evolves into a multidisciplinary craft center. The Made in Jingdezhen feature showcases artists redefining heritage techniques using lacquer, silver, gold, and glassmaking. Contributors include Moonline, POT, and Studio bay.
Re:Materialize: The Future of Sustainable Design
Re:Materialize explores material-driven design in response to environmental challenges. Curated with Róng Design Library, it presents themes—Present Optimism, Nostalgic Shelter, and Harmonious Coexistence—focusing on sustainability and innovation in design.
Design Shanghai: A Global Design Powerhouse
With over 2,600 brands from 30+ countries and 640,000 attendees, Design Shanghai continues to bridge China with the global design community. As it pushes the boundaries of innovation and craftsmanship, the show cements its role as a leader in the future of design.