Your design in pocket size: ADW invites design professionals and design lovers!

Antwerp Design Week has built a reputation as an intimate and inspiring event for professionals in the design world. But in 2025, the story expands. With the launch of the Design Lover Walk, the event opens its doors for the first time to the broader public. So what’s changing — and why is this important for brands, creatives and curious visitors alike? Let’s look at both sides of the experience.

Why this cross-pollination matters

When there’s more to experience, everyone benefits.While the journey of a professional is different from that of a design lover, both perspectives bring value to the Antwerp Design Week story.

The showrooms and headquarters in the outer districts are curated for professionals — spaces where meaningful conversations and business insights unfold. These locations are not intended for general visitors.

But in District Downtown, the Design Lover Walk opens up a world of discovery for everyone. It offers a short, surprising, and creative look into the spirit of ADW, where design, local culture, and the city of Antwerp seamlessly come together.

This thoughtful division of experience ensures depth for professionals and inspiration for curious minds, all while keeping the energy and creativity flowing between both worlds.

Because when design is shared more widely, the entire community thrives.

For Professionals: more experience and more reach

Are you a retailer, (interior) architect, or active in hospitality or concept development?

For you the event unfolds across five districts: Downtown, North, East, South and West. From compact city showrooms to expansive brand campuses just outside the city , each zone offers a unique glimpse into the soul of Belgian design. With the ADW app, free bikes, custom routes and shuttles, moving between hotspots is effortless.

And beyond your professional showroom visits, there's room to wander and wonder. The Design Lover Walk in District Downtown guides you past inspiring installations, creative pop-ups, and hidden gems woven through the city. The perfect way to soak up Antwerp’s creative spirit between your meetings.

Start at The Club, plan your route, and get ready to be surprised.

Antwerp Design Week brings it all together : efficient, inspiring, and just a little unexpected.

For Design Lovers: Design as discovery, Antwerp as playground

In 2025, Antwerp Design Week introduces the Design Lover Walk: a curated journey through the heart of the city, tailored for anyone who loves design and wants to experience it up close.

This new initiative is all about exploration.

Three walking routes lead visitors through Belgian and international design brands, inspiring exhibitions, secret spots, hidden gems, pop-up stores, and creative installations. Some stops are well-known design houses; others are tucked away in side streets, waiting to be discovered.

The walk is fully flexible:

→ Follow one of the curated routes

→ Or create your own adventure using the ADW app

Whether for a quick visit or a full day of exploration, every moment is designed to inspire.

Practical info:

• The Design Lover Walk runs from 1 to 5 June 2025, from 10 AM to 6 PM daily.

• All locations are within District Downtown, the beating heart of Antwerp.

• Visitors can pick up a printed route map at The Club (the central ADW hub), at one of the Discover Points along the route, or simply download everything digitally via the ADW website or app (available end of May).

• Along the way, visitors can even win exclusive design pieces!