Antwerp transformed into a vibrant center of creativity and innovation last week during Antwerp Design Week (ADW). This second edition of the prestigious event, which took place from June 2 to 7, brought together 54 brands and companies to present their latest designs and visions to professionals in the design sector. With its origins in the ‘Deco Valley’ initiative that began 12 years ago, the ADW has become an essential platform for Belgian and, gradually, foreign design brands.
The ‘early days’: Deco Valley
The roots of Antwerp Design Week go back to humble beginnings when ten Belgian interior and design companies joined forces under the name ‘Deco Valley’. Their common goal was to promote their brands at the international Maison & Objet fair in Paris and create a city guide for Antwerp. Last year, this collaboration was expanded and transformed into the first edition of Antwerp Design Week, an initiative that immediately proved to be a great success.
Strong brands, passionate people
Geert-Jan Van Cauwelaert, founder of Antwerp Design Week and owner of the XLBoom brand, is enthusiastic about the growth and success of the event. “It’s great to see 54 quality brands presenting themselves to the design professional,” says Geert-Jan. His vision of allowing only brands with a strong market position and a high standard of quality to participate has clearly succeeded. The diversity and level of participating brands make the ADW a unique experience for everyone in the design industry.
Inspiring and relaxing networking moments
In addition to the impressive brand presentations, the ADW offered a series of activities focused on inspiration and networking. There were several lectures by leading designers and architects, in which they shared their insights and experiences. In addition, mini-events and cocktail evenings provided a relaxed atmosphere in which professionals could exchange ideas and explore new collaborations.
On to edition number 3
Antwerp Design Week 2024 was a great success and proved once again the importance of this event for the design sector. With a perfect mix of innovative presentations, inspiring lectures and networking opportunities, the ADW has firmly established itself as a leading platform for the promotion of design with a strong Belgian touch. We are already looking forward to the next edition and the new creations that these talented brands will unveil.
In the coming days, we and the editors of PureDeluxe will bring you an account of the different brands we discovered during the past design high mass! Stay tuned!
More info about the Antwerp Design Week can be found here: https://www.adw.life/
