Editor's picks: 2026 Melbourne Design Week
Melbourne Design Week is an annual celebration of creativity and innovation, offering a diverse range of events that showcase the city's vibrant design scene. This year's edition, taking place from May 14-24, promises an exciting lineup of exhibitions, talks, tours, films, and workshops. Here's a curated selection of some of the most intriguing events that caught our editorial team's attention:
100 Chairs
Abbotsford Convent, Abbotsford
This exhibition is a creative exploration of the humble chair, a staple in Australian design. With a twist on the original 100 Lights concept, 100 Chairs showcases 120 chairs designed and crafted by a diverse range of Australian creatives. From seasoned designers to emerging talents, this exhibition promises a unique blend of styles and collaborations. Keep an eye out for the joint efforts of Studio Gram and Daniel Emma, Foolscap and Alpha60, and the dynamic duo of Bel Williams and Claire Markwick-Smith. The exhibition will be on display at Abbotsford Convent from May 14 to 24, providing a perfect setting for these creative masterpieces.
Susty Spec: Biomaterials Exhibition and Launch Party
Johnson Street Building, Collingwood Yards, Collingwood
Isabella Peppard, an architect with a passion for sustainability, has embarked on a mission to promote locally made biomaterials in construction. Through her platform, Susty Spec, she interviews Australian manufacturers and explores the regenerative nature of their materials. This one-day exhibition and launch party will showcase practical solutions for specifying biomaterials and integrating them into building projects. It's a chance to witness the future of sustainable architecture up close.
In the Hot Shop: Glassblowing Demos with Special Guest
Gordon Studio Glassblowers, Red Hill
Glassblowing is an art form that captivates the senses, and the Gordon Studio Glassblowers offer a rare opportunity to witness this ancient craft in action. The demos feature artists at the top of their field, showcasing their mastery of the blowtorch and their ability to transform molten glass into exquisite pieces. With burnt fingers and fresh bandages as a testament to their dedication, these artisans create a magical experience that is both mesmerizing and rare. Don't miss this chance to see glassblowing in its purest form.
Table Manners
Florian Home, Carlton North
This exhibition takes a playful approach to dining etiquette, challenging the standardized design of cutlery. Curated by Georgia Smedley, Table Manners showcases one-off sets of cutlery produced by 12 contemporary designers and makers. From Belle Thierry to Tai Snaith, each piece is a unique creation that prompts visitors to reflect on their eating habits. The exhibition also features historical and contemporary cutlery pieces restored by Arne and Nicolette, offering a comprehensive perspective on the evolution of dining etiquette.
Toad Takeover: From Pest to Purpose
Le Space, Collingwood
Cane toads, an invasive species in Australia, take center stage in this thought-provoking exhibition. Curated by Lisa Tabrah, it explores the potential of transforming these destructive creatures into something beautiful and valuable. Tabrah's previous work, including cane toad couture for MONA's Eat the Problem project, demonstrates how design can address environmental challenges. This exhibition aims to inspire a shift in perspective, turning a pest into a purpose.
You've Got Mail
Above Mitty's Newsagency, Melbourne
Get ready for a fun twist on the classic 1998 rom-com film, 'You've Got Mail'. This exhibition brings together international designers and their interpretations of the letterbox, an everyday object often overlooked. Curated by Athanasia Spathis and Sean Brickhill, the event will feature over 20 designers, showcasing their unique takes on this familiar object. With a focus on bold and expressive designs, 'You've Got Mail' promises to be a captivating and imaginative experience, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar concept.
