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KC Design Week 2025: A Celebration of Design and Sustainability

From April 22 to 30, the Center for Architecture & Design (CfAD) will proudly present KC Design Week, an exciting event that showcases creativity and engages the community in discussions around design. Since its inception in 2010, KC Design Week has steadily grown to become a vital platform for connecting thousands of design enthusiasts through various enriching programs. This year’s event features an impressive lineup of 25 individual sessions led by experts across numerous design disciplines including architecture, graphic design, and urban planning.

The Impact of Earth Day

This year, KC Design Week will coincide with Earth Day, an important occasion that emphasizes environmental responsibility within all facets of design. As part of kicking off the event on April 22, attendees will be invited to explore workshops that emphasize sustainability in design and manufacturing practices.

One highlight is “Full Circle: Rethinking Sustainable Furniture,” where industry leaders will discuss the innovative approaches taken to reduce waste in furniture production. Participants will learn how sustainable furniture can provide value to both our spaces and the environment. Another engaging event, “Brew & Renew,” offers an inside look at the eco-friendly practices at Boulevard Brewing Co. This guided tour will illustrate how sustainability is integrated into their brewing process, from their zero-landfill commitment to partnerships that promote recycling.

A Diverse Audience and Multi-Disciplinary Approach

Each year, KC Design Week draws an average of 1,800 attendees from the Kansas City metropolitan area. With a diverse group of participants ranging from graphic designers and architects to university students and urban planners, the event fosters a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. Co-chair Maggie Newlin noted the significance of the week: “Participants gain valuable insights and skills that impact their lives and careers.” To make the event accessible, 11 of the 25 events will be free, further encouraging participation from a broader audience.

Organized by a coalition of seven different design organizations, KC Design Week is distinct not only for its multi-disciplinary approach but also for the collaborative spirit at its core. The planning committee consists of representatives from diverse fields, ensuring a balanced program every year. This collaboration showcases the remarkable talent present within Kansas City’s design community.

Commitment to Community and Education

Dawn Taylor, the executive director for CfAD, emphasized how extensive planning goes into preparing the event: “Our dedicated committee volunteers invest nine months of creativity and passion into planning KC Design Week.” The goal of these events extends beyond promoting design; it aims to educate the public about the impactful role that design plays in enhancing our lives, shaping our communities, and driving innovative solutions to pressing challenges.

The fusion of artistry and environmental consciousness makes KC Design Week not only a celebration of innovation but also a call to action for future sustainability in design. As we look forward to the events this April, it is essential for participants to pull inspiration from the speakers and workshops, reinforcing that good design matters to every aspect of our lives. To learn more, visit the official KC Design Week website at kcdesignweek.org for the full schedule and ticket information.

KC Design Week 2025 promises to be an enriching experience that highlights the complexities and accomplishments of design culture in Kansas City while underscoring the essential commitment to sustainable practices across all disciplines of design.