Singapore Design Week (SDW) 2024 is here, running from 26 September to 6 October, offering an inspiring array of programs that shine a spotlight on Singapore’s impressive creativity and design innovation. This year’s festival, themed “People of Design,” is set to deliver a vibrant mix of exhibitions, installations, and interactive experiences across three dynamic design districts—Bras Basah.Bugis, Marina, and Orchard.
Building on DesignSingapore Council’s dedication to nurturing local talent, the three design districts will showcase a vibrant network of creatives, communities, and partners working together to showcase Singapore’s unique brand of creativity. Here are the top 9 must-see programs that you won’t want to miss.
Bras Basah.Bugis Design District
Top; Bottom: EAT, photo by Fang Hui; and HEAL, photo by Jonathan Levi
Led by the internationally acclaimed designer, educator, and three-time recipient of the President’s Design Award, Hans Tan, this People of Design Showcase Series showcases the incredible work of over 84 designers. They have created site-specific installations that reimagine everyday activities such as eating, sleeping, and commuting. The highlights are truly remarkable:
They provide a fresh perspective and inspire a sense of wonder.
- EAT: Transformative Seeds by Atelier Fang, National Design Centre
Explore the fascinating connection between food and design through this exceptional installation by China-based food design studio, Atelier Fang. The installation delves into the origins of food from the perspective of seeds, offering a truly unique and enriching experience. Enhancing this perspective is a special dining experience at Tipo Pasta Bar in Stamford Arts Centre.
- HEAL: Repair+ by Yishun Health, 42 Waterloo Street
Experience a transformative journey at this exhibition, where cherished items are lovingly restored in ways that heal both the soul and the senses.
- DESIGN by Hans Tan Studio, National Design Centre
The exhibition “DESIGN” offers workshops carefully crafted and curated by four dedicated designer-educators. It also highlights the innovative works of individuals from all walks of life. By placing the power of design directly into the hands of people from diverse backgrounds, the exhibition aims to explore the empowering nature of design and to demonstrate how design sensibilities are accessible to everyone.
- SLEEP by Forest & Whale
Dive into the world of sleep with this immersive installation that offers new perspectives on one of our most essential daily activities. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the intersection of design and wellness.
- Friday Late
On 27 September, this district bursts with vibrant after-hours activities. Immerse yourself in curator-led tours, interactive VR experiences, and innovative food workshops and explorations across multiple venues, such as the National Design Centre, National Library Building, Bugis Town, Naumi Hotel, 42 Waterloo Street, and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts.
This year, the expanded Marina Design District will showcase Marina Central for the first time, along with the iconic Marina Bay area.
Curated by Nathan Yong, a highly esteemed designer in Singapore, the Neu Folk exhibition at Marina Central combines traditional craftsmanship with innovative design. The showcase at Millenia Walk incorporates discussions, interactive sessions, and two dynamic, energy-powered public art installations that harmonize play with sustainable technology.
Images: A rendering of the Design Pavilion at Millenia Walk, photo courtesy of Marina Central; a rendering of Kinetic Energy Play, by Playpoint; EMERGE @ FIND, photo by Studio Periphery
Key attractions of this district include:
- Not to be missed are two large-scale public installations powered by kinetic energy at Marina Central!
Mooncycle features device-charging swings inspired by Moon Gates found in Chinese gardens, while Kinetics Energy Play invites visitors to power human-sized wheels that light up with movement.
- FIND – Design Fair Asia 2024
As Asia’s largest design trade fair, FIND returns to Marina Bay Sands, showcasing cutting-edge designs from around the world. This year’s event will feature close to 60 designers from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam, spanning 1,000 sqm of curated space, offering a dynamic view of Southeast Asia’s vibrant design landscape.
- Friday Late
On 4 October, Marina Central will kick off the evening’s festivities with an extravaganza of music, design, food and craft at DISTRICT M, across four zones at Marina Square, Millenia Walk, South Beach and Suntec City.
Over at Orchard Road, you’ll have something special to look forward to with Re-Route: Orchard, curated by the Singapore-based inter-disciplinary group PLUS Collaboratives. Embracing the theme of “Be Here Now”, this program works its magic on Orchard Road, adorning it with design installations that honor the district’s ever-changing character. You’ll have the chance to uncover hidden gems and rediscover the vibrant energy of the area.
- Offshoots Route – curated inventions and design installations
From unexpected stamping stations to a nostalgic playscape at Far East Plaza and a design showcase on adaptive reuse, this trail encourages visitors to see Singapore’s iconic shopping street through a new lens to appreciate its blend of fashion, history and modernity.
Whether you are a design enthusiast or simply curious, these programs provide something for all. Make a note in your calendar and delve into the creativity and innovation that Singapore Design Week 2024 has in store!
水の家 