Must-see exhibitions during Antwerp Design Week 2026

Across the city, 4 exhibitions offer a glimpse into this evolving landscape, each with its own voice, yet connected by a shared sense of curiosity and momentum.

A RAW IDEA

Boerentoren

In the iconic Boerentoren, itself a building in transition, A RAW IDEA by ID&A Mechelen embraces design in its most honest form. Here, the focus shifts away from the final object and towards the designer. Sketches, prototypes and reflections are presented side by side, revealing the full journey from idea to outcome. Doubt, experimentation and decision-making remain visible, becoming part of the narrative rather than something to hide.

This exhibition positions young designers not as future promises, but as active voices today. Questioning systems, challenging norms and initiating change.

HOUSE HOSTED by Het Labo

Nieuw Zuid

With HOUSE HOSTED, Het Labo transforms Nieuw Zuid into an open and layered living space where disciplines and generations meet.

Blurring the lines between art and design, the exhibition brings together established names and emerging talents in one dynamic setting. The result feels like stepping into a home that is constantly evolving, shaped by dialogue, contrast and unexpected encounters.

It is a place of discovery, where different worlds intersect and where the atmosphere is as important as the objects themselves.

LA CAMBRE x XLBoom

In collaboration with XLBoom, La Cambre presents a group of young designers navigating the space between academy and industry.

The exhibition makes the design process tangible, showing how initial ideas evolve into realistic products shaped by material, production and brand identity. The theme of hospitality runs throughout, with objects designed around simple human actions like sharing, serving and gathering.

For many participants, this marks a turning point. A first step into a professional dialogue where intuition meets strategy, and where design becomes both meaningful and applicable.

THE EDIT

curated by Flanders DC at UPR Agency

The Edit offers a sharp and curated snapshot of emerging talent. Organised by Flanders DC, this group exhibition brings together young designers and brands at a pivotal moment in their journey.

Often presenting their work to an international audience for the first time, participants use this platform to test, share and refine their ideas. The collective setting creates a dialogue between different materials, visions and approaches.

More than an exhibition, The Edit acts as a launchpad. A place where connections are made, visibility grows and the future of design begins to take shape.

Together, these exhibitions capture the essence of Antwerp Design Week. Design as a process, as a dialogue and as a reflection of a generation in motion. Not fixed, but constantly unfolding.