A Global Design Moment: Amy Astley × Kelly Wearstler
One of the major highlights of the weekend was the onstage conversation between Amy Astley, Global Editorial Director and Editor in Chief of AD US, and Kelly Wearstler, the internationally acclaimed American designer and creative director. Their dialogue explored cross-cultural exchange, the influence of India, and the direction of global design. It received an overwhelming audience response.
The Geoffrey Bawa Pavilion
The Geoffrey Bawa Pavilion emerged as a standout experience at the show. Designed by Bangalore-based studio Phantom Hands, the installation celebrated the late Sri Lankan master’s iconic furniture and product designs. Created in collaboration with the Geoffrey Bawa Trust, the space was widely appreciated for reintroducing Bawa’s modernist legacy to a new generation. Additionally, architect Channa Daswatte led daily walkthroughs, offering visitors rare insights and intimate stories behind each piece.
Luxury Pavilion
The Luxury Pavilion showcased an exceptional selection of leading global and Indian design houses. Visitors explored the latest innovations in luxury furniture, lighting, surfaces, technology-enabled interiors and lifestyle design. As a result, the pavilion reinforced the AD Design Show’s status as India’s premier luxury design destination.
AD Discoveries
AD Discoveries returned as one of the fair’s most anticipated sections. It spotlighted over 40 emerging designers and collectible design studios, presenting limited-edition furniture, sculpture, ceramics, textiles, and experimental work. The pavilion celebrated fresh creative voices shaping the future of Indian design.
AD Café
Functioning as the social hub of the exhibition, the AD Café hosted networking, conversations and curated culinary experiences. Culinary partners included KOKO, Food Square, Cravin’ Pantry by Andy, Ode, SupaSan, Scarlett House, Frozen Fun and Subko.
VIP Lounge
The VIP Lounge, designed by Peacock Life by Shabnam Gupta and powered by Rustomjee, served as a dedicated space for meetings and meaningful discussions throughout the event.
Installations
The edition featured several remarkable installations:
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Mathieu Lustrerie displayed historic Versailles chandeliers, revealing how 17th-century French crystal craftsmanship continues to elevate contemporary interiors.
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ENVIRO X MCM blended Indonesian fibre traditions with modern design, highlighting innovation rooted in cultural heritage.
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Parman Design’s Baithak reinterpreted Kaali, Kolam art and the charpai through sculptural terrazzo expressions.
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Takshni’s Dvait reflected the philosophy of kintsugi, depicting themes of healing, duality, and transformation.
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Luxerus’ Falling Amber chandelier resembled cascading waterfalls using hand-cast Murano-style glass.
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Geometry in Light transformed a Rietveld-inspired armchair into a luminous sculpture with smart-controlled light.
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JIGYA.M’s Jhakhi showcased intricate hand-embroidered Pichwai art framed in reclaimed teak.
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Bombay Sapphire Creative Lab’s Step Into the Blue created an immersive installation expressing clarity and creativity in blue-lit acrylic and metal landscapes.
Partners
Title Partner: Pidilite and ICA Pidilite
Associate Partners: Bombay Sapphire Creative Lab, Obeetee Carpets, Vedica Himalayan Spring Water
Brand Partners: (full list retained as requested and unchanged for accuracy and crediting)
