The inaugural Design Biennale
Rotterdam, themed
„What’s Real is Unfamiliar,“
transformed the city into a hub
of innovation, challenging
perceptions of reality and
exploring the unexplored
layers of design. Rooted in
Rotterdam’s spirit of
reinvention, the biennale
balances new technologies
with respect for cultural and
historical context.
Photo Courtesy: Design Biennale
Rotterdam with Sarah Roseman,
Alexandra Hirst, Johannes Offerhaus,
Oana Clitan.
Design Biennale Rotterdam
SXSW 2025.
The South X Southwest
Festival in Austin explored
themes of human connection,
truth, AI’s evolution, and
longevity amidst rapid
change. Speakers
sidestepped political drama,
focusing on technology’s
impact and the need for
grounded experiences.
A key attraction was Refik
Anadol’s AI-powered „Earth
Dreams,“ translating
environmental data into
captivating visuals.
SPECIAL. At Home in World
Flavours. That is Markthal.
Food brings people together.
And that is exactly what we do
as a global tastemaker in
Markthal. Here you can taste
the diversity of the world city of
Rotterdam. Looking for your
taste? Select your choice and
be surprised by more than 100
food spots.
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The event thrives on
collaboration, showcasing design
as a tool for critical conversation.
Exhibitions like „This is Us“ at
Groothandelsgebouw celebrate
Rotterdam’s designers, while
aSR Building on Weena explores
the intersection of present and
future. Baanhof presents „A
Promise of Happiness,“ exploring
individuality and harmony. The
Huidenclub examines diaspora
and cross-identity, and
Katoenhuis pushes sustainable
design with AI and 3D printing.
The professional program
features symposiums at Nieuwe
Instituut and Huidenclub,
discussing design’s role in
shaping cities and navigating
cultural hybridity. Keynote
speaker Joseph Zeal Henry led
discussions on how harbour
cities drive innovation.
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BY CLAUDIA STEINAM PUBLISHED: 01 MARCH 2025
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