THANK YOU FOR YOUR REQUEST
You will soon be contacted by our brand ambassador and product specialist.
As the summer sun shines brightly, the design and architecture world is bustling with various exhibitions and performances designed to inspire, challenge, and transform how we view the field. From the busy streets of London to the charming towns of Sicily, these diverse showcases offer an abundance of experiences. Join us as we explore the Top 10 Essential Design and Architecture Exhibitions that are influencing the industry discourse this summer.
See also: Embrace the Cosy Season: Autumn Interior Design Trends for 2025
The fourth edition of the Bruges Triennial, called “Spaces of Possibility,” showcases the mesmerising installation “Earthsea” by Studio Ossidiana. Located in the historic courtyard of Hof Bladelin, this living pavilion brings together minerals, plants, animals, fungi, and bacteria to create a dynamic environment for interaction between humans and other forms of life. Highlighting themes of sustainability and climate change, the installation serves as a sanctuary that transforms over time, capturing the essence of ecological and social harmony. Open until September 1st, this exhibit is a must-see for those interested in innovative design.
Located in the heart of Sicily, the Civic Museum of Castelbuono is showcasing “Stranieri Ovunque – Foreigners Everywhere,” a collection of neon sculptures by the feminist collective Claire Fontaine. This series, which has become a permanent part of the museum’s collection, conveys a message of universal brotherhood inspired by Pope Francis. The impactful triptych, presented in Italian, Arabic, and Persian, invites us to imagine inclusive cities, where no one is seen as a foreigner. Serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of unity and empathy, this exhibition is a must-see cultural experience.
Curated by Studio 2050+, “Notes on Air” at SALT Beyoglu turns the intangible into a sensory experience. The exhibition uses fabrics and embroidery to visualize the components of polluted air, such as nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide. This creative approach highlights environmental toxicity, making the invisible threat of air pollution starkly visible. Congratulations to Ippolito Pestellini Laparelli for this insightful presentation, which is on display throughout the summer.
The Remo Brindisi Museum House is a treasure for design and architecture enthusiasts. Created by Nanda Vigo between 1968 and 1973, this house museum combines reality and surrealism, epitomizing the ‘integration of the arts.’ Its distinctive nature and cosy atmosphere provide an ideal escape for those looking to connect more profoundly with art and design. Situated within a pine forest, it offers a peaceful yet invigorating experience.
The Design Museum in London is showcasing a significant retrospective on Enzo Mari, curated by Hans Ulrich Obrist and Francesca Giacomelli. Covering Mari’s extensive career from the 1950s to 2020, the exhibition includes over 250 projects, such as books, furniture, and children’s games. It revisits Mari’s radical and consistent vision, providing an in-depth look at his impact on Italian design. Open until September 8th, this exhibition celebrates Mari’s lasting influence.
The Rhinoceros Gallery in Rome is spotlighting Ronan Bouroullec’s vivid world of colours and organic shapes. Starting March 21st, the gallery has been displaying a collection of Bouroullec’s works from Galerie Kreo, emphasizing his investigations into material and motion. This exhibition not only showcases Bouroullec’s creative talent but also underscores the gallery’s significance as a cultural hub in Rome.
Marco Sammicheli’s homage to Estúdio Campana at Shanghai’s Power Station of Art (PSA) celebrates the studio’s four-decade legacy. Titled “Impermanence – 40 Years of Estúdio Campana,” the exhibition showcases more than fifty groundbreaking pieces, highlighting the studio’s evolution toward sustainability and inventive design. Featuring contributions from Humberto Campana and graphics by Maru Widen, this display provides a deep reflection on the studio’s influence and vision. Open until September 8th, it stands out as a major event on the global design calendar.
Marinella Senatore’s performance “Together We Stand” at Kunsthaus Stade highlights themes of community and activism. As part of the School of Narrative Dance, this participatory event invites marginalized groups to come together and assert their voices. Renowned for her impactful illuminations, Senatore’s work serves as a powerful call for justice and climate action. This thought-provoking exhibition will be on display until September 8th.
“Ecology is Social, in Practice,” curated by Salvatore Peluso at Circolo del Design, examines the intersection of environmental challenges and current socio-political issues. Showcasing ten collective design projects, the exhibition explores topics such as migration, biodiversity loss, and the ecological impact of urbanization. It offers a critical look at how design can foster a more sustainable and just world. Running until December 16th, this exhibition is essential for anyone concerned about the future of our planet.
“Carthagisme,” presented at Lamia Bousnina Gallery and curated by Nicolas Bellavance-Lecompte and Lamia Bousnina Benayed, is a collaborative exhibition honouring Tunisian craftsmanship. It features the creations of six international designers alongside six Tunisian artisans, blending traditional methods with modern innovation. This dynamic showcase pays tribute to Tunisia’s rich craft heritage while highlighting its potential for contemporary design. Open until September 29th, “Carthagisme” underscores the ongoing significance of local cultures in the global design landscape.
This summer, the world of design and architecture beckons with an array of Top 10 Essential Design and Architecture Exhibitions, that not only showcase creativity but also address pressing ecological and social issues. From intimate house museums to grand international showcases, these exhibitions invite us to explore, reflect, and engage with the transformative power of design. So pack your bags, embark on this cultural journey, and let the summer of 2024 inspire your creative spirit. Happy travels!
See also: Transform Your Home with Stunning Lighting Design
What did you think of this article about the Top 10 Essential Design and Architecture Exhibitions Summer? If you want to be up to date with the best news about trends, interior design tips, and furniture luxury brands, you must follow us and keep hold of the latest and most exclusive content from the interior design world. Follow us on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook for more inspiration!