The Design Museum has announced its 2026 exhibition line-up, offering event planners the opportunity to create immersive, design-led experiences for guests. From Japanese streetwear to monumental stage design and contemporary Black aesthetics, next year’s programme is set to provide bold, creative themes for corporate and private events, as well as the opportunity for private viewings.
Building on the success of current exhibitions such as Wes Anderson: The Archives, which is open until July 2026, the museum continues to offer visually rich, cinematic inspiration for events while introducing new headline shows that push creative boundaries.
Headline exhibitions for 2026 include:
- NIGO: From Japan with Love (1 May – 4 October 2026)
The first-ever museum retrospective outside Japan dedicated to NIGO – the creative force behind streetwear brand A Bathing Ape and Artistic Director at KENZO. Expect a journey through streetwear, music, and cultural icons, with opportunities to theme events around fashion and global style. - Es Devlin (18 September 2026 – 11 April 2027)
A landmark exhibition celebrating the visionary artist and stage designer behind Olympic ceremonies, Superbowl halftime shows, and collaborations with the world’s biggest musicians. Perfect inspiration for events that embrace scale, spectacle, and storytelling. - The Nue Black Aesthetic (6 November 2026 – 8 August 2027)
A groundbreaking show guest-curated by Charlene Prempeh, spotlighting contemporary Black designers shaping furniture, fashion, architecture, and installation art. A thought-provoking theme for events that champion creativity and cultural innovation.
Free displays such as PLATFORM: Simone Brewster and Design Researchers in Residence: Mineral will also offer fresh perspectives for more intimate gatherings and networking sessions.
The exhibitions are available for private viewings, while the museum’s supplier partners are on hand to help bring these themes to life for events – whether it’s a product launch that takes inspiration from Es Devlin’s kinetic sculptures or a VIP reception influenced by NIGO’s iconic streetwear archive.
Livia Puggini, Head of Commercial Partnerships & Events, comments: “Our 2026 programme is bold, visionary, and creative – offering planners the chance to design events inspired by some of the most influential names in design. With our trusted supplier partners on hand to transform themes into reality, every detail can reflect the energy and ideas behind NIGO, Es Devlin, and The Nue Black Aesthetic. From styling and production to immersive experiences, we’re ready to help create events that feel as unique as the exhibitions themselves.”
For venue hire, private viewings and bespoke events, contact our team: venuehire@designmuseum.org.
