Melbourne Design Week will be back to celebrate its 10th birthday from May 14-24. Across 11 days of exhibitions, talks and workshops – yes, that's more than 400 events – Australia’s largest annual design event will showcase the future of food, fitness, furniture and more.
With a call to action to 'design the world you want’, the 2026 program spans everything from experimental furniture and architecture to food design, sportswear and robotics. Events will take place in some of Melbourne’s most iconic cultural spaces, including the National Communication Museum, Melbourne School of Design, Abbotsford Convent and, of course, NGV International.
A stellar line-up will take to the stage throughout the festival. Japanese industrial designer Shunji Yamanaka will deliver a lecture exploring his boundary-pushing work with robotics and prosthetics, while renowned architect, while Tom Kundig will discuss designing homes that forge deeper connections with nature. Australian design icon Mary Featherston will also appear in conversation with Grand Designs Australia presenter Anthony Burke, reflecting on the mid-century interiors she created with her late husband Grant.
Food and design meet in a series of delicious events. One highlight pairs celebrated chef Hugh Allen with architect John Wardle to explore the craft behind Melbourne’s new fine-dining restaurant Yiaga. Elsewhere, exhibitions delve into the artistry of tableware, chocolate inspired by architecture and the design that shapes the hospitality experience.
The 2026 program will celebrate the legacy of Australian design across products, retail and manufacturing by Danielle Brustman, Studio Shields, Cult and more. Brands, galleries and showrooms will also host exhibitions, talks and workshops, including at Tait, Jardan, Riva Ceramica, Pieces of Eight, Artbank, C. Gallery and Animal House. The Australian Furniture Design Award (AFDA) will be presented to thought-provoking furniture and lighting designs that respond to the 2026 theme 'Living Well, Living Small'.
In addition, the Melbourne Art Book Fair will run its popular stallholder fair in the NGV International's Great Hall from May 15-17, spanning books, publishing, archival research and graphic design.
You can view the full program for Melbourne Design Week and book tickets here.
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