#London #United Kingdom #Dieter Rams #World Design Organization

World Design Organization's 2025 Congress Closes With Impactful Insights

The World Design Organization (WDO) recently concluded its highly anticipated World Design Congress 2025 in London from September 9-11. This prestigious event, which took place at the iconic Barbican Centre, gathered over 1200 participants from around the globe to delve into the poignant theme of 'Design for Planet'. The three-day program was a hybrid affair, combining both in-person and virtual attendance.

Notable Speakers and Keynotes

The Congress featured a lineup of distinguished speakers, including notable design figures such as Lord Norman Foster, Julia Watson, and Thomas Heatherwick. These design visionaries shared insights on how design serves as a vital catalyst for fostering a more regenerative future. Among the many highlights was the keynote from Marianna Mazzucato, who captivated attendees with her perspectives on the intersection of design and sustainability.

Moreover, Indy Johar, Charlot Magayi, and Brian Eno also addressed the Congress, emphasizing the urgency of integrating sustainable practices into design methodologies. Their contributions reinforced the notion that design transcends mere aesthetics and plays a pivotal role in addressing global ecological challenges.

2025 World Design Medal awarded to Dieter Rams

A significant moment during the Congress was the announcement of Dieter Rams as the recipient of the esteemed 2025 World Design Medal™. Due to Rams' longstanding absence from public appearances, his award was accepted on his behalf by Professor Dr. Klaus Klemp, the Managing Director of the Rams Foundation. Klemp lauded Rams as a champion of sustainable design principles, illuminating how his work has continuously influenced the evolution of design with an emphasis on environmental responsibility.

Busan: World Design Capital 2028

Another highlight of the event was the official acceptance speech by His Excellency Dr. Heong-joon Park, the Mayor of Busan Metropolitan City. He celebrated Busan's recent designation as the World Design Capital 2028. During his speech, Mayor Park articulated the city's ambitions under the theme of 'Inclusive City, Engaged Design'. He remarked that this title symbolizes a transformative opportunity for innovation and improvements in both the quality of life for citizens and various city aspects.

WDO General Assembly and Leadership Elections

On the Congress's concluding day, WDO members convened for the organization's 34th General Assembly at the Design Museum. A pivotal portion of the assembly was dedicated to the election of the WDO Board of Directors for the 2025-2027 term. Pradyumna Vyas from India was appointed as President, with Makiko Tsumura from Japan serving as President-Elect. The diverse board members elected represent various countries, reinforcing WDO's global outreach and commitment to collaborative design efforts.

Looking Ahead: World Design Congress 2027

As another exciting development, the Seoul Design Foundation was announced as the host for the 35th World Design Congress scheduled in September 2027. The theme for the upcoming congress will focus on 'Design for Sustainable Life' and will commemorate WDO's 70th anniversary. This return to Seoul, a city previously celebrated as the World Design Capital in 2010, marks an important milestone for the organization, emphasizing its ongoing dedication to sustainable design practices.

Recognition of Excellence: WDO President's Award

The assembly concluded with the presentation of the 2025 WDO President's Award, which was awarded to corporate member Andreu World for its remarkable commitment to sustainable materials and responsible manufacturing practices. This accolade underscores the essential role that corporate engagement plays in furthering WDO's mission and initiatives.

In summary, the World Design Congress 2025 not only reiterated the importance of design in tackling the pressing challenges of our times, but it also set a foundation for future endeavors that align with the vision of sustainability and inclusivity. As highlighted by President Pradyumna Vyas, the future of design is indeed filled with extraordinary potential when aligned with the needs of both people and the planet.