Exhibition season is here. Product designers everywhere are already figuring out which 2026 events to hit. If you work in product design, manufacturing, or marketing, you know that keeping up means actually showing up. The events where the next wave of design takes shape are where you need to be. These product design exhibitions are where you'll spot what's new in furniture, meet the people who matter, and get a sense of where things are going.
Whether you've been at this job for decades and want to grow your network, or you're just starting out and need to get your work seen, these events give you a real chance to make it happen. Our 3D rendering studio has rounded up nine of the most worthwhile product design exhibitions for you to consider for 2026.
Why Product Design Exhibitions Matter
With everything moving online, you might wonder if in-person exhibitions still count. They really do. Design fairs and design trade shows give you something a screen never will. Trends emerge, relationships form, and the design world strategizes for the future. These exhibitions are basically where the industry's pulse lives. When you're walking the floor, you're seeing what people have been working on for years. All the experiments and creative gambles that led to this moment are right there in front of you.
The stats are pretty convincing, too. About 82% of people at trade shows can actually make buying decisions. That means these events are great for finding serious leads, not just collecting business cards. Companies that do exhibitions well often make back five times what they put in.
But it's not just about selling. These shows are also incredible for learning. Workshops, talks, and live demos. You'll pick up things about new tech, sustainable approaches, and market shifts that could change how you work. The knowledge shared at these events often isn't available anywhere else.
And the people you meet? Those connections often last way longer than the event itself. Collaborations get started over coffee between sessions. Supplier relationships begin with a handshake at a booth. Mentorships form when someone more experienced takes an interest in your work.
How to Choose the Right Events
There are tons of design shows throughout the year. Picking the right ones takes some thinking. Your time and budget aren't infinite, so you want each event to actually be worth it.
First, get honest about what you're looking for. New suppliers or materials? Is there an opportunity to showcase your designs to potential buyers? Or maybe you're mostly there to learn — to see new technologies and ideas that might shape what you do next.
Different shows do different things well, so knowing your priorities helps you choose. Geography matters, too. Some exhibitions lean regional; others are genuinely global. If you're trying to get into new markets, go where those markets show up. Think about which sectors are represented. Niche events let you go deep into specific areas. Broader ones let ideas cross over between fields.
Pay attention to what's programmed beyond the floor. The best shows have solid talks, workshops, and demos alongside the booths. And before you book anything, look into who's actually exhibiting. A good mix of established names and newer talent is where the interesting stuff happens.
Top International Product Design Exhibitions in 2026
1. Maison&Objet Paris
Website: Maison&Objet
Place: Paris, France
Dates: January 15-19 & September 10-14, 2026
Maison&Objet doesn't just set the tone for the design world — it practically conducts the orchestra. Happening twice a year at Paris Nord Villepinte, this massive fair gives you two opportunities to tap into one of the most influential design gatherings on the planet. The January edition kicks off the year with fresh ideas and new launches, while September carries a sense of momentum — the kind that fuels upcoming collections and end-of-year strategies.
Maison&Objet is big — almost unbelievably so. Walk through its halls, and you’ll see everything that makes a space feel designed: furniture, lighting, textiles, scents, tableware, and all the little details in between.
The layout helps you make sense of it all, with areas grouped by vibe — sleek modern pieces in the “Today” halls, handmade treasures in “Craft,” and plenty of other gems. But what really makes Maison&Objet special? It’s the way it mixes business with inspiration. Yes, deals are made. But so are creative sparks — the kind that leave you thinking differently about design.
And then, of course, there's Paris. The fair doesn't end at the expo center. Step into the city's buzzing design districts, and you'll find pop-up installations, gallery nights, and showrooms staying open late — all part of the extended Maison&Objet in the City experience. Come for the fair, stay for the atmosphere.
2. IMM Cologne
Website: IMM
Place: Cologne, Germany
Dates: January 20-23, 2026
IMM Cologne starts the design calendar with a bang. Taking over the Koelnmesse exhibition center each January, it's the place where interior trends take their first breath of the year. From launches of new furniture products to concept spaces that rethink how we live, this fair offers a sharp look at where design is headed — and who's leading the way.
Manufacturers, designers, and decision-makers from across Europe (and far beyond) gather here not just to showcase but to test ideas, spot patterns, and see what resonates. It's practical, forward-looking, and packed with insight — a must for anyone who wants to be a step ahead when it comes to interior innovation.
3. Interior Design Show
Website: Interior Design Show
Place: Canada
Dates: January 22-25 (Toronto) & September 24-27 (Vancouver), 2026
The Interior Design Show is North America's big event for fresh design thinking. It pulls in architects, interior designers, manufacturers, and anyone who cares about this industry. With editions in both Toronto and Vancouver at different times of the year, IDS has become essential to the Canadian design calendar. It attracts some of the most intriguing creators from across the continent.
IDS excels due to its meticulous organization and its ability to stimulate curiosity. The show is organized into distinct sections, each with its focus and character. 'Studio North' features emerging Canadian designers doing conceptual work that takes risks. These are pieces that push boundaries and challenge assumptions. 'The District' connects professionals with quality products for home projects. Here you'll find established manufacturers alongside smaller producers with distinctive approaches.
Many booths build out full environments so you can see how things actually work in real spaces. This event showcases not only how products look on a pedestal but also how they function in real environments. The talks cover sustainable design, new tech, and plenty more.
4. Kitchen, Bedroom, and Bathroom Show
Website: KBB
Place: Birmingham, United Kingdom
Dates: March 1-4, 2026
KBB is the UK's main event for anyone in the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom world. Held at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, it gathers manufacturers, retailers, designers, and installers. These are the rooms where function and personal taste collide most. The 2026 edition marks the show's 40th anniversary, making it a milestone event.
The depth is impressive due to its focus on these specific spaces. The exhibition features cabinet systems, worktop materials, bedroom furniture, and bathroom fixtures. All of it was covered thoroughly. You won't find the breadth of a general design fair here, but you will discover expertise within these categories that broader shows can't match.
Manufacturers often pick KBB for big product innovation reveals. Smart home features, water-saving tech, and designs built for how people actually live now. The learning sessions tackle installation challenges, trends, and sustainability. Networking events help you meet the people you'll actually want to work with.
5. Light + Building
Website: Light + Building
Place: Frankfurt, Germany
Dates: March 8-13, 2026
Light + Building is the world's biggest fair for lighting and building tech. This every-other-year event covers all of lighting design. Decorative pieces, architectural applications, and everything in between. Additionally, the event includes topics such as electrical engineering, home automation, and security systems. If your work sits where design and technology meet, this one's essential.
The scope is remarkable. The range of products includes everything from a single decorative pendant to systems that manage illumination across entire buildings. Whatever your interest in lighting, you'll find it represented here.
What you'll see here is consistently pushing boundaries. LEDs are getting smarter and more efficient. Lighting that responds to how humans actually function throughout the day. Connected systems that help buildings use less energy while providing better quality light.
The talks dig into the tech-driven change. The discussion focuses on smart building integration, sustainability, and how lighting intersects with health and well-being. German engineering shows up everywhere. Manufacturers demonstrate the kind of precision that raises the bar for everyone.
6. Salone del Mobile Milano
Website: Salone del Mobile
Place: Milan, Italy
Dates: April 21-26, 2026
Salone del Mobile Milano has long held its place as the most important furniture and interior design event in the world. Every April, it turns Milan into an international design hub, drawing hundreds of thousands of professionals, creatives, and journalists who come to see what's shaping the future of living spaces.
Emerging talent has its place too — and a powerful one. SaloneSatellite is where young designers under 35 present their ideas to a highly influential audience. It's where portfolios become careers and prototypes lead to contracts. Many of today's design leaders got their first big break right here.
Meanwhile, outside the fairgrounds, the entire city of Milan comes alive with Fuorisalone. Design spills onto the streets. Showrooms host one-night-only events, galleries launch curated installations, and every neighborhood hums with creativity. From Brera to Tortona, the atmosphere is electric — a week where inspiration meets business and every corner might surprise you. The event offers unparalleled design networking events that span the entire city.
This isn't just another stop on the circuit. For many in the industry, it's the highlight of the year.
7. ICFF
Website: ICFF
Place: New York, United States
Dates: May 17-19, 2026
The International Contemporary Furniture Fair is North America's top spot for contemporary design. Held at New York's Javits Center, ICFF draws architects, interior designers, retailers, developers, and manufacturers. Everyone's hunting for great residential and commercial pieces.
The exhibitor range is solid. There are big global names alongside small studios and individual designers. You'll find furniture, lighting, flooring, wall treatments, textiles, and kitchen stuff. Everything has a contemporary feel while remaining practical for real projects.
What sets ICFF apart is its position in the American market. It's where American buyers discover international talent and where international brands establish their US presence. ICFF Talks brings in speakers on materials, sustainability, and the creative process. And the timing couldn't be better. It happens during NYCxDESIGN, when design basically takes over the whole city. Showrooms host special events. Galleries mount exhibitions. Installations pop up everywhere.
8. Manchester Furniture Show
Website: Manchester Furniture Show
Place: Manchester, United Kingdom
Dates: July 5-6, 2026
The Manchester Furniture Show has become the UK's fastest-growing furniture trade event. It gives people an option outside of London. Held at Manchester Central, it's efficient and tight while still attracting quality exhibitors.
Manchester's location means it's easy to get to from anywhere in Britain. Northern retailers and designers who might not make the trip to London find Manchester accessible.
You'll find the full range. Living room, dining room, bedroom, and occasional pieces. Upholstery gets special attention. Sofas, chairs, and accents running from traditional to modern.
What really makes Manchester different is how focused it is on actually getting deals done. The whole setup helps buyers and sellers find each other. Less emphasis on spectacle, more on practical business. The smaller scale means you can have real conversations. Plenty of people say the relationships they build here end up mattering more than what they find at the huge shows.
9. Decorex International
Website: Decorex
Place: London, United Kingdom
Dates: October 11-14, 2026
Decorex International is where high-end interior design meets serious craftsmanship. Hosted at Olympia London, it brings together over 400 exhibitors — think luxurious furniture, rich textiles, sculptural lighting, and beautifully crafted decor. If you work at the premium end of the market, this is one event you won't want to miss.
Everything here is curated with intention. No mass-produced pieces — just standout work from leading design houses and exceptional independent makers. The focus is firmly on quality, originality, and attention to detail.
But what really sets Decorex apart is the crowd. You'll meet interior designers, architects, hoteliers, developers, and private clients who know what they need — and have the budgets to back it up. These are people who care about good design and come ready to collaborate.
The Design Talks programme adds even more value, with big names sharing ideas on sustainability, business, industry trends, and everything in between. It's the kind of environment where real conversations happen — a bit slower-paced, a bit more thoughtful, and a lot more personal than your average trade fair.
Conclusion
These nine exhibits are among the best ways to enter the top tier of the design world. Each one offers something different.
Salone's scale and reputation are unmatched. Manchester's focus on doing business makes it incredibly efficient. Light + Building's technical depth serves anyone working with lighting and building technology. Maison&Objet's twice-yearly rhythm lets you stay connected to the market throughout the year. Decorex brings together the luxury end of the market in London's creative setting. IMM Cologne sets the tone for what's coming each January.
Together, they give you multiple ways to enter the global design conversation. They present the most outstanding contemporary work in various categories and price ranges.
Making the most of these events takes some homework beyond just booking travel. Look up exhibitors so you know where to spend your time. Set up meetings beforehand when possible. Have your materials ready to make a lasting impression. Business cards still matter. A portfolio on your phone. Samples if appropriate.
The things that change the design will be right there for you to see and touch. Sustainable materials that address environmental concerns. Smart tech that makes products more useful. New visualization approaches that change how we communicate ideas. These aren't abstract trends. They're real products you can experience firsthand.
There's simply no substitute for being there in person. Photos and videos capture some of what happens. But they miss the texture of materials under your fingers. The scale of pieces in real space. The energy of thousands of people who share your interests.
As you plan your 2026, think about which events match what you're actually trying to do. Whether you want to find new ideas, meet people in different markets, or soak up the creative buzz that only big industrial design events generate, these shows offer real ways forward.
The design world will be there. You should be, too.
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