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The regional design fair will be divided into dedicated design segments this year
Following a digital fair in 2020, Downtown Design has announced that it will be returning as a physical exhibition this year, set inside a purpose-built tent at the Dubai Design District during Dubai Design Week. Taking place from 8-12 November – an extra day has ben added to its usual four-day schedule – the fair is set to coincide with Expo Dubai 2020.
The 8th edition will feature the latest collections by regional and international brands as well as country pavilions set to promote native design talent to the Middle East.
This year also sees an introduction of a new format for the fair, which will be divided into dedicated design segments including Furniture, Lighting, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Materials & Finishes, Accessories and Soft Furnishings.
The fair will also see the return of Downtown Edition, its boutique showcase for limited-edition and bespoke design, showcasing works by a new generation of independent designers, collectives and studios who are looking to embark on the next phase of their career growth.
‘The Shape of Things to Come’ exhibition will also make a comeback this year, commissioning regional architects and designers to “create vignettes with a new theme”.
Downtown Design’s talk programme will continue, bringing together regional and international practitioners to discuss the opportunities and challenges presented to the design industry.
Read more: identity’s highlights from Dubai Design Week 2020
Renowned designer Antonio Citterio introduces a new paradigm in contemporary seating through the Loungescape sofa
We speak with the founder of Hobb, Haifa Malhas, about building a bookstore and a community centred around love for design
Save the date for the much awaited gala night.
With fresh openings in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh, Crate & Barrel and CB2 unveil Fall/Winter collections that blends tactile design, sustainability, and exclusive collaborations, bringing global style closer to regional homes.
Global surfaces leader Cosentino launches four new quartzite options in the Sensa range
Taking place from 4-9 November 2025, Dubai Design Week this year centres around community.
Casa Tranquilo by DADO offers an immersive retreat into nature
The Ritz-Carlton’s intimate treetop retreat offers a rare invitation to connect deeply with nature and culture
In Summerlin, Nevada, Faulkner Architects and Concept Lighting Lab have revealed a desert home that withstands extremities
We interview selected architects and interior designers to talk about balancing permanence and progress across their projects
A conversation with Maryam Raeisi, Managing Director of HMA Living by Al Shamsi
This year’s fair is set to take place between 29 September and 2 October