Design in the City

Since its inception, Design Shanghai has extended its influence beyond the exhibition halls into the wider city, supporting the local creative ecosystem through a series of design-led initiatives. From 5–22 March 2026, Design in the City, a key strategic extension of the fair, returned in an expanded format—offering a platform for brands, designers and venues to connect with audiences through a programme of curated activations.

This year’s edition adopted a more considered curatorial approach, spanning four central districts of Shanghai—Huangpu, Jing’an, Xuhui and Changning. Bringing together leading brands, cultural institutions and emerging studios, the programme connected over 100 destinations across the city and presented more than 30 events, including exhibitions, installations and open studios. Positioning the city itself as a framework for engagement, the project encouraged closer connections between design and everyday life, creating new opportunities for exchange across disciplines and communities.

Design in the City will return from 22 February to 7 March 2027, continuing to develop its role as a platform for city-wide collaboration and creative exchange.

Download City Design Guide 2026

4 Curated Design Districts

Huangpu, JIng'an, Xuhui, Changning
 

The 2026 edition of Design in the City extends across four major districts—Huangpu, Jing’an, Xuhui, and Changning—encompassing over 100 distinguished destinations and presenting a comprehensive map of the city’s creativity, culture, and design landscape.

Each district offers a unique lens on Shanghai’s creative vitality. Led by acclaimed designers and cultural practitioners with deep engagement in the city, the “City Explorers” will guide visitors through the creative cores of each area, revealing hidden landmarks and design narratives that collectively define Shanghai’s distinctive urban identity.

Download City Design Guide 2026

City Design Guide

As a cornerstone of the Design in the City programme, the City Design Guide celebrates Shanghai’s most inspiring creative destinations—from design studios and concept stores to cafés, galleries, and boutique hotels. Since its launch, the City Design Guide have featured over 100 exceptional venues across the city, building a living map of creativity, culture, and design experiences.

In 2026, the City Design Guide will further strengthen its role as the official publication of Design in the City. It will offer participating brands and venues premium visibility while connecting them directly with a design-savvy audience. The guide will be distributed citywide and at the Design Shanghai main event, serving as a curated platform to showcase creative spaces, attract new audiences, and anchor Shanghai’s most dynamic citywide design celebration.

Download City Design Guide 2026