The ICFF + WantedDesign Manhattan design fairs, held during NYCxDESIGN, successfully concluded with increased attendance, showcasing an array of global design brands, inspiring talks, and recognition of emerging talent.
The ICFF and WantedDesign Manhattan, two premier design fairs held during NYCxDESIGN, concluded on a high note at New York’s Javits Center from May 21-23, 2023. The event received an enthusiastic response from the design community, including exhibitors, architects, designers, manufacturers, and buyers.
Bringing together 476 design brands from 35 countries, including 116 first-time exhibitors, ICFF + WantedDesign Manhattan showcased a wide range of furniture, lighting, textiles, flooring, kitchen and bath products, wallcoverings, and accessories for commercial, residential, and hospitality environments.
With a combined attendance of over 9,000 architects, interior designers, and contemporary retailers, the shows saw a significant increase of 32% compared to the previous year. The total number of visitors exceeded 13,000, representing a 37% growth, reflecting the industry’s desire to engage and the positive response to the show’s new changes.
As first-time brand directors, Odile Hainaut and Claire Pijoulat expressed their delight at the positive reception, highlighting their goal to create curated, creative, and immersive design spaces. They were overwhelmed by the exhibitors’ and attendees’ enthusiasm, affirming that their vision aligned with the industry’s expectations.
The 2023 edition showcased several highlights, such as the emphasis on US-based studios across Look Book, ICFF, and The Crossroads. The international pavilions added a rich cultural dimension to the show, fostering global connections. The Talks, held at the mainstage and The Oasis x Material Bank, attracted a large and engaged audience, featuring discussions with design luminaries, industry leaders, and cultural organizations. The Launch Pad and Schools areas impressed with exceptional work from emerging designers worldwide, generating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Noteworthy events included the ICFF Editors Awards, where leading design editors recognized outstanding designs in various categories. Five awards, including Best in Show, were bestowed upon participants from the Look Book program. The winners showcased their talent and innovation in their respective fields.
The ICFF + WantedDesign Manhattan Talks covered diverse topics such as American design, diversity, emerging trends, technology, and sustainability. Renowned speakers, including Snøhetta, Patricia Urquiola, David Rockwell, and Karim Rashid, shared their insights and inspired the audience.
The event also featured newly designed spaces, such as The Crossroads, curated by David Rockwell, which celebrated American design through the works of established and emerging designers. The Restaurant, designed by Rodolfo Agrella in partnership with Be Original Americas, became a popular gathering spot. The WDM Café x Caesarstone served as a central meeting place, supported by various design brands.
Initiatives like the Best of Launch Pad recognized emerging designers, while the Look Book program provided a platform for high-end North American designers to showcase their work. The Schools Showcase gave international design schools the opportunity to present their best students’ work, fostering connections and feedback from industry professionals.
Collaborative projects, international pavilions, networking opportunities, and interactive installations further enhanced the event, fostering creativity and business prospects.
Looking ahead, the organizers are committed to refining and expanding ICFF + WantedDesign Manhattan based on feedback from exhibitors and attendees. They aim to create an even more immersive and engaging experience for participants in the coming years.
ICFF + WantedDesign Manhattan 2024 is scheduled for May 19-21, 2024.
About ICFF: The International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) is North America’s leading platform for contemporary furnishing design. With a focus on original and sustainable design, ICFF showcases a wide range of products to architects, interior designers, retailers, and the design-loving public.
About WantedDesign: WantedDesign is a platform dedicated to promoting design and fostering international creative dialogue. Through events, conversations, and partnerships, WantedDesign provides a meeting point for the global design community, connecting designers, manufacturers, retailers, and the general public.
For more information, visit www.icff.com or www.wanteddesignnyc.com.
About Emerald: Emerald is a leader in building dynamic, market-driven business-to-business platforms that integrate live events with a broad array of industry insights, digital tools, and data-focused solutions to create uniquely rich experiences. As true partners, we at Emerald strive to build our customers’ businesses by creating opportunities that inspire, amaze, and deliver breakthrough results. With over 140 events each year, our teams are creators and connectors who are thoroughly immersed in the industries we serve and committed to supporting the communities in which we operate. For more information, please visit www.emeraldx.com.
