World Design Weeks Summit Helsinki 2017 consisted of two individual events that brought together design festivals and their partners around the world.
A new design event called DesignCommons was launched in Helsinki. A relaxed concept breaks the traditional conference lecture format that has speakers on stage and the audience silently listening. The international stars sit with the audience and take turns to stand up and talk about the hottest design topics. During the evening, tables consisting of visitors and speakers alike discuss common themes and found solutions while enjoying food and wine.
Speakers:
Architect David Adjaye of Adjaye Associates
Architect Winy Maas of MVRDV
Technology entrepreneur Marko Ahtisaari of Sync Project
Landscape architect Cees van der Veeken of LOLA Landscape Architects
Artist Alexander Groves and architect Azusa Murakami of Studio Swine
Architect Paloma Strelitz of Assemble
Entrepreneur Chris Sheldrick of what3words
Head of design Markus Engman of Ikea
Photos © Iiris Heikka
The second day, the focus was on networking and creative problem-solving. The event was hosted by the Swedish creative agency Fantastic Studios. The day was for members of the World Design Weeks network, international guests and local stakeholders.