Dutch Design Week '21: optimistic, creative and critical

Northern Europe's largest design festival, Dutch Design Week (DDW), showcased designers' efforts to find the right balance, toward less or toward more, but better. With the theme "The Greater Number," this year's festival called for a critical look at our way of producing and consuming. Many designers are aware of the fact that things have to change and are contributing creative ideas and innovative designs. This is not a ready-made solution, but a joint search for a better balance: a 'Greater Number'.Online Editor: Mical Joseph
Image: Dutch Design Week

Designers as conscientious guides

Dutch Design Week came just at the right time. A lot is happening in the world. More than ever, the perspective and inspiration of designers is needed. They sink their teeth into the range of issues we face, always putting the common good first. Whether it is the nitrogen problem, housing shortage, mobility or social issues such as inclusiveness, designers are the guiding vanguard when it comes to charting a new course. A course leading to a sustainable, more social and more just future.

© Britt Roelse

© Max Kneefel

Get inspired

Projects, events, studios: design was everywhere during Dutch Design Week. Work by over 2,600 designers was on display. Every day DDW streamed the various topics through DDW TV. A talk show presented by Brecht van Hulten, full of fascinating conversations and inspiring items. Next year Dutch Design Week will of course be there again.© Cleo Goossens