Singapore, renowned as a bustling hub for creativity, innovation, and design, is set to witness the return of one of the most anticipated events in the industry – the FIND Design Fair Asia. Scheduled to take place from 21st to 23rd September 2023 at Marina Bay Sands, this three-day extravaganza promises to be a captivating showcase of the latest trends, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging talent across the furniture, interiors, and design sectors.
With a vast exhibition space spanning over 18,000 sqm, FIND Design Fair Asia is gearing up to welcome over 15,000 visitors, 350 international brands, and 50 distinguished speakers during the Global Summit. This convergence of industry leaders, suppliers, and creative minds will undoubtedly make it a must-attend event for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
The resilience of Asian markets in the aftermath of Covid-19 has been evident, driving a growing demand for high-end and bespoke design solutions across various sectors, including construction, hospitality, commercial, and residential. The design market’s potential for global furniture brands is undeniable, with Southeast Asia alone projected to witness a staggering 8.35% growth in the sector by 2027, reaching a value of US$248.9 billion. Additionally, the Asia Pacific interior design services industry is expected to offer equally promising opportunities, with an estimated worth of US$35.3 billion by 2027.
Fueling the growth further is the rebounding travel demand, which has resulted in substantial investments in Asia Pacific hotels, expected to surpass US$10.1 billion by the end of the year. This growth is expected to continue, with around 800 new hotels slated to open by 2024, contributing to the USD 18.4 billion generated in revenue by the Asia Pacific hotel market by March 2023. Such thriving markets present tremendous opportunities for interior design, property development, retail, and workspace sectors across Asia.
A glance at the development survey conducted by Lodgings Econometrics and Colliers’ research reveals that Asia is witnessing an upsurge in hospitality projects, with around 2,000 projects underway, excluding China, which boasts an astounding 3,600 projects in the pipeline. Notably, India and Vietnam are among the most active players, with 383 and 240 projects, respectively. Indonesia follows closely with 227 projects. In terms of the pipeline by country, Thailand ranks fourth with 167 projects, with Bangkok leading the charge with 66 ongoing projects, followed by Seoul with 63 and Jakarta with 49 developments.
Carl Press, the Director of FIND – Design Fair Asia, expressed his enthusiasm for the industry’s growth, stating, “As projects and travel in the region are significantly upscaling, the confidence for the industry is growing. Likewise, the hospitality and retail industry is moving into a new era, catering to the next generation of consumers with smarter supply chains, integration into local cultures, and addressing sustainability needs while going through a technological evolution. Design brands understand this, and we want to help suppliers capitalize on Asia’s markets as we believe the positioning of FIND as a regional business platform is very compelling.”
The event’s success is attributed to its effective business matchmaking services through a regionally hosted buyer program and value-driven networking initiatives for business visitors. FIND – Design Fair Asia has forged strong partnerships with key industry bodies, including the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS), Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA), Singapore Retail Association (SRA), Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA), Vietnam Design Association (VDAS), and several other leading regional industry groups.
One of the highlights of the event is the FIND – Global Summit, curated by Yoko Choy, the China editor of Wallpaper* Magazine and Chair of Content for FIND – Design Fair Asia. The summit brings together thought leaders, renowned craftspeople, and the creative community to discuss the exciting developments driving the industry today. With dozens of sessions spanning three days, the FIND – Global Summit will present insightful seminars, including inspirational masterclasses by Italian Interiors and contemporary design magazine INTERNI. The summit will focus on five key pillars reflecting the issues of most concern to the design community today, promising a stimulating exchange of ideas and knowledge.
Undoubtedly, the event’s international appeal is amplified by the collaboration with Fiera Milano and the Italian Trade Agency. Together, they are organizing a collective participation of Italian companies at FIND – Design Fair Asia 2023. Italian design’s uniqueness will be showcased at “The Italian Design Futures Capsule,” featuring over 30 leading brands known for their creativity, excellence, and craftsmanship.
Adding to the excitement is the collaboration between the Italian Embassy in Singapore, supported by ICE (Italian Trade Agency), and the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hosting the installation ‘Italia Geniale’ – a collection created by ADI (Association for Industrial Design). This famous exhibition showcases the most significant materials, objects, and artefacts of Italian design icons that embody imagination, work, well-being, and relationships between people.
As the dates draw near, industry professionals, enthusiasts, and design aficionados eagerly await the FIND Design Fair Asia, anticipating a remarkable showcase of cutting-edge designs, inspiring ideas, and invaluable networking opportunities. With its commitment to fostering meaningful conversations around pressing issues in the industry, the event is poised to solidify Singapore’s position as a regional hub for innovative and future-proof design solutions.
In conclusion, FIND Design Fair Asia 2023 is set to exceed all expectations, offering a platform for global brands and young talents to shine while bridging the gap between design suppliers and Asia’s thriving markets. With an extensive range of exhibits, seminars, and networking opportunities, the event promises to leave a lasting impression on the industry and shape the future of design in the region.
Enjoy even more @ FIND Design Fair Asia
Article edit by Massimo Basile
Editorial Director