About…

…fifteen years ago, design in Canada exploded – TV programs, magazines, shops, websites, design firms and an overall awareness and desire to create inspiring and unique personal spaces and environments. It was within this context and environment that the idea for IDS was born.

Today we celebrate our 14th show and IDS is Canada’s largest contemporary design fair. Since our inception, we have welcomed over 550,000 visitors, close to 5,000 media, and provided a marketing platform for almost 4,000 individual designers, studios, firms and companies.

Moreover, we continue to build our presence on the international design stage by inviting world renowned industry leaders to speak, opening the exhibit floor to foreign companies and designers and inviting international media to attend.

Since our first year, we have also seen a notable growth in commitment to design all around us – restaurants, bars, hotels, and even by the city, itself. The future of design for Canada, and for Toronto specifically, is looking good.

We hope that you will join us for this 14th annual celebration of design that not only provides inspiration and ideas, but also helps to support and generate business for an industry that is becoming increasingly important for Toronto’s future.

If you work in design and/or love design, you will find something or someone that will change, inspire or encourage you in unprecedented ways. Keynote speakers range from international stars like Milan-based Piero Lissoni to Canadian design heroes Tommy Smythe and Brian Gluckstein; one-off and unique exhibits and installations by Canada’s best; and 300 exhibitors showing truly unique products for your home, restaurant, office or hotel.

We hope you enjoy your visit.