Design Nation: the new B2B platform for design in Belgium

Design professionals can visit Kortrijk Xpo again this autumn to discover the latest trends and innovations at Design Nation: a brand-new trade fair with a premium offering in design furniture, lighting, interior textiles and decorative objects.

Design Nation will take place over two days, on 19 and 20 October, at Kortrijk Xpo. This new hotspot for design is open only to professionals from different sectors, from furnishers of high-end hotels and restaurants, office design, property development, the medical and public sectors to interior architects and retailers of design objects and furniture.

After the era of the renowned Interieur fair, a vacuum arose in the Belgian design landscape. Within the Kortrijk Xpo team, the idea grew to develop a new trade fair concept: just as ambitious and qualitative as Interieur, but adapted to the current challenges of the sector. For example, thorough research showed that many manufacturers - from our country and beyond - have a clear need for a high-quality platform to present their design innovations and that this should preferably be a fair that is more compact in time and reserved for a professional audience.

"The world is changing rapidly. It used to be enough, for example, to furnish an office with purely functional elements, but those days are over. Today's working environment should radiate warmth, with cosy seating areas and flexible arrangements. The same applies to residential care and medical centres that strive for furnishings that combine functionality, aesthetics and homeliness," says Hannelore Caenepeel, exhibition manager.

Premium brands

As far as exhibitors are concerned, the bar has been set high. Design Nation aims at national and international premium brands that can surprise and inspire discerning visitors with innovative products in the technological and creative fields. The bulk of the offer will consist of furniture, both indoor and outdoor, with kitchen and bathroom fittings, interior textiles, lighting and decorative objects also included.
Innovation is the defining factor at Design Nation. A jury of design professionals will judge the innovative nature and creative level of the collections and objects on display. The unique 'plug-and-play' formula appeals and it allows all the objects at Design Nation to be shown to their best advantage. Hannelore Caenepeel: "We want to unburden our exhibitors so they don't have to invest in an expensive stand. Our unique set-up, where stands are separated by semi-transparent curtains, invites you to take a look at the stands. There is a choice between stands of 24, 40 or 80m²."

Designer of the Year

Trend watchers from different sectors and countries will give talks on the trend stage. Trend sessions will include the winner of the 'Designer of the Year' competition organised by Knack Weekend, as well as Christine Boland, in collaboration with Trendvision. Hilde Francq of FRANCQ COLORS will guide visitors through the latest interior design trends for 2024. 

Register on www.design-nation.eu by code HTV436