The 13th edition of Design Shanghai will take place from 19–22 March 2026 at the Shanghai Exhibition Centre, bringing together more than 500 brands from over 20 countries and highlighting the growing influence of Asian design on the global stage.
© Design Shangai
Above: Planet Rack and Record Cabinet by 12h.
Over the past decade, Design Shanghai has become one of Asia's most important international design events, providing a platform where regional creativity meets global design culture. The 2026 edition places particular emphasis on craft heritage, material innovation and emerging talent across China, Japan and the wider East Asian region.
"For 13 years, Design Shanghai has championed modern design across China and Asia, witnessing the rise of a dynamic creative era," said Zhuo Tan, Show Director of Design Shanghai. "It's inspiring to see so many remarkable designers and artists shaping this momentum, as Asian design steps confidently onto the global stage."
© Design Shangai
Above: RE-ART Room, [Collectible Design & Art, 2026 show].
Among the highlights is the presentation of leading homegrown furniture brands that blend local cultural references with contemporary design. Participants include SHANG XIA, PUSU, U+ and PAST TO NOW, each exploring new interpretations of traditional craftsmanship.
Shanghai-based studio 12h will present its Planet Rack and Record Cabinet, crafted from solid wood with mid-century influences and designed for a new generation of vinyl enthusiasts. The studio's approach focuses on "slow design," combining Eastern aesthetics with modern manufacturing to create long-lasting furniture pieces.
The show will also feature several curated exhibitions exploring the relationship between craft, materials and contemporary design. Among them is Beyond Craft, which examines how traditional Asian craftsmanship continues to evolve within modern design practices.
Japanese brands such as Yamato, DOMYO and Kubo Paper Studio will present works rooted in centuries-old techniques, including washi paper, handcrafted cords and traditional papermaking, reinterpreted for contemporary interiors.
© Design Shangai
Above: Weaving Nature by Hu Yuehua.
The event also supports the next generation of designers through the TALENTS programme, curated by designer Frank Chou. The exhibition showcases designers under 35 and explores the theme "About Time," examining how design reflects cultural and social change across generations.
Another highlight is Made in JDZ, a feature dedicated to the ceramics heritage of Jingdezhen, often referred to as China's porcelain capital. The programme explores how traditional ceramic techniques are being reimagined by a new generation of designers.
As one of China's most internationally connected cities, Shanghai continues to strengthen its position as a global design hub. The city's creative industries generated ¥1.64 trillion in 2024, surpassing ¥2 trillion in 2025, underlining the rapid growth of the design economy.
With its mix of international brands, emerging designers and experimental craft initiatives, Design Shanghai 2026 continues to position itself as a key meeting point for the global furniture and interiors industry.
More information:
Design Shanghai
www.designshanghai.com
