From May 15–21, 2025, NYC transforms into a design lover’s paradise as NYCxDESIGN returns with a citywide celebration of creativity, innovation, and inclusivity. With over 200,000 attendees expected across 31 neighborhoods, this year’s festival promises an eclectic mix of exhibitions, installations, talks, and parties. Here’s your curated guide to the must-see events and experiences.
Key Events & Exhibitions
Design Pavilion by Lexus
-
Dates: May 10–19
-
Location: Hudson Yards Public Square & Gardens
-
Highlight: An immersive experience titled “Lexus Ambiance,” where visitors can craft personalized environments using light and presence.
NYCxDESIGN xSouvenir Exhibition
-
Dates: May 15–21
-
Location: The Canvas at the Oculus, 185 Greenwich St
-
Highlight: Showcasing 72 original NYC-inspired souvenirs by top designers, including works by Joey Zeledon, Karim Rashid, and David Weeks.NYCxDESIGN
International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) & WANTED
-
Dates: May 18–20
-
Location: Javits Center, 429 11th Ave
-
Highlight: Featuring nearly 400 exhibitors, including emerging talents like Winkle Ceramic Design and Finnish designer Hanna Anonen.
Shelter by Afternoon Light
-
Dates: May 17–19
-
Location: Starrett-Lehigh Building, 601 West 26th Street
-
Highlight: A new 3-day fair presenting over 100 brands and designers, including Blu Dot, Hem, and Mooi.
Keynotes & Talks
-
May 15: Coca-Cola presents “Contour,” celebrating 110 years of the iconic bottle design at the International Center of Photography.
-
May 16: IBM hosts “AI: Sci-Fi to Society,” exploring AI’s impact on design at their new NYC headquarters.
-
May 17: Life Time Fitness discusses the intersection of design and wellness in hospitality and travel.
Neighborhood Spotlights
-
NoMad Design Day (May 16): A curated mix of talks, artist collaborations, and showroom debuts.
-
Atlantic Avenue (May 17): Explore Brooklyn’s design scene with independent businesses opening their doors.
-
Cornell Tech on Roosevelt Island (May 16): Public access to labs, student exhibitions, and architectural tours.
Student Showcases
-
Pratt Institute: Design Show (May 15–20)
-
Parsons School of Design: Constructed Environments Exhibit (May 14–20)
-
Fashion Institute of Technology: Graduating Student Exhibition (May 13–25)
-
New York Institute of Technology: Student exhibitions (May 15–21)
Parties & Celebrations
-
Opening Night Party (May 15): Hosted at The Refinery at Domino.
-
After Party (May 15): Details to be announced.
-
Closing Party (May 21): Held in DUMBO, celebrating the culmination of design week.
At Branding NY City, we celebrate the spirit of innovation and creativity that NYCxDESIGN represents. As you explore the city’s design week, don’t forget that our team is here to support your brand’s next chapter—whether you’re seeking a standout NYC logo design, working with a top-tier NYC graphic designer, or looking to level up with a fashion marketing agency in NYC. We invite you to experience NYC Design Week not just as an observer, but as a creator—and we’d be honored to help bring your brand vision to life.
