Every February, New Delhi transforms into a vibrant hub for design enthusiasts as India Design ID unfolds. This is one of the most prestigious events, also known as the country’s best design week. Providing a platform for creative expression, it promises to shape the design trends of tomorrow.
Over four days, from 15th-18th February, the NSIC Grounds in Okhla are filled with over 130 exhibitors from India, and across the globe, showcasing their most exclusive collections. The event offers a diverse experience, consisting of various sections, that cater to multiple different interests, all under one roof.
The heart of the event, ID Exhibit is a feast for the eyes. Here, leading all affordable to luxury brands showcase their latest collections, and stunning installations. From established names to rising stars, it is filled with the most innovative furniture, lighting, and home décor. What stood out to me was how there were personalized walkthroughs by many brands, helping us divulge into the designing process, and the inspiration, behind each exquisite piece.
This year, they also had an exclusive exhibit curated by the famous artist Ankon Mitra. Known for his innovative sculptures that often push the boundaries of traditional materials, Mitra’s exhibit, titled “The Enduring Legacy of Paper,” became a major highlight of the event. It consisted entirely of works made with paper. As a part of this, 75 artists showcased their innovative creations on paper.
Designed exclusively for ColourNxt by Pavitra Rajaram Design, Samsara is the Wallpaper of the Year, 2024. With pigments obtained from mud, tea leaf, natural dyes, and metallic gold leaf, it represents the overflowing beauty of soil. A very striking metaphor behind this is soil nurtures and bears witness to our existence. Listens to our songs. Responds with her own. She is where we come from, where we return. Everything we create is new. And nothing Is new, she reminds us. Life is ever in motion. As are we.
ID Symposium, a platform where renowned Indian, and international designers, architects, and artists engage in panel discussions, presentations, and workshops. It creates a space for them to foster intellectual discourse and knowledge sharing within the design community. These sessions go deeper into contemporary design trends, what the future holds, and the big ideas that are making a difference.
The Kohler walk-in installation was one of the very interesting parts of the exhibition. It had themes of innovation, luxury, and a vision for the future of bathroom experiences. Not only did it have interactive displays with touchscreens to explore the features, it also had humorous quotes like
“The biggest step in any relationship isn’t the first kiss, it’s using the same toilet.” It served as a plot to let us know not only is their technology modern, but also the mindset.
India Design ID 2024 was a whirlwind of inspiration, education, and sheer design delight. From personalized brand experiences to thought-provoking exhibitions, the event offered something for everyone. With its focus on promoting collaboration and knowledge sharing, it leaves us eagerly anticipating the innovations and ideas that will bloom in the design world in the years to come.
Photo credits: Ankita Singh
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