Dating back to 2004, Budapest Design Week was born out of a close-knit community who then set the bar high for creating stimulating objects. Artists, small and medium-sized enterprises, even big companies joined this annual initiative to feature the year-on-year evolution of what they know best – the art of creating a product. In 2018, a 15-day event observes design and will examine where Hungary may stand in this form of expression in another decade or by 2050.
A series of presentations, round-table discussions, workshops and exhibitions run citywide at such locations as the MOME University of Art and Design, the contemporary Bálna Budapest and the Hungexpo Budapest Fair Center. Many events are English-friendly, but some presentations run in Hungarian only or in other languages, such as German and French.
With Germany in the spotlight for this year’s event, prominent product designer Sebastian Herkner gives a lecture in English on 10 October at MOME. Since Herkner’s London internship with Stella McCartney, he has established his own studio and works for furniture brands such as Moroso and Thonet.
Design Week also welcomes the legendary Marc Sadler, a consultant for companies producing home furnishings, household appliances, lighting and sports products. Currently living in Milan, the Frenchman will introduce the essence of modern furniture design and trends during a presentation on 11 October and at a workshop the next day. Both events take place at the Basic Collection store (District V, József Attila utca 12), and are English-friendly.
Another prominent speaker is Andreas Enslin, Head of Design at the German Miele brand, known for its high-end domestic appliances. Enslin believes that useful products make life a little more festive and he will talk about this theory to a Budapest audience in German. The event takes place on 16 October at the Style Center (District V, Balassi Bálint utca 23).
For Design Week, acclaimed Hungarian artists open their ateliers to the public, including a plant in the outer district recycling car parts, to a shoe designer’s studio. On 11 October, the Night of Office Buildings provides a sneak peek into workplaces built with 21st-century design.
Then there are workshops, where participants can learn how to make leather bracelets, cushion covers, even sophisticated cutting boards. A selection of Hungarian design products will be offered for purchase during the MOME Fair taking place at ruin bar Szimpla on 13 October.
Exhibitions also feature at the Hungarian National Museum, at FUGA, at the Museum of Commerce & Catering and at independent galleries.
Many of the events require registration, see the Budapest Design Week website for more details.
