Enjoy insights from our Principal, Kenneth Roberts, and his experience at the What’s New What’s Next event.
My Day at “What’s New, What’s Next” 2024: A Design Enthusiast’s Dream
As I walked up to 200 Lexington Avenue last Friday, I could feel the excitement in the air. The annual “What’s New, What’s Next” event at the New York Design Center was starting, and I couldn’t wait to dive in. Here’s a recap of my whirlwind day at one of the design world’s most anticipated events.
10:00 AM: Arrival and Registration
The moment I walked into 200 Lexington Avenue, I was greeted by the buzz of anticipation. Designers, architects, and industry insiders from around the world were gathering, all eager to see what the day would bring. After a quick check-in, I immediately ran into designers I knew, and we discussed our first events.
10:30 AM: First Stop – Design for the Long Haul
My first destination was the David Sutherland showroom for the discussion with Asad Syrkett, editor-in-chief of Elle Decor, who spoke with designers Ken Fulk, Delia Kenza, and Andrew Kotchen. The conversation was a great way to kick off the event.
11:00 AM: Get Happy!
Next, I found myself in the Fromental | Coller Webb showroom, where Wendy Goodman, the design editor of New York Magazine, was a quick fire of 20 images. She had 20 seconds for each to share why these images made her happy. We got a look into her childhood and how her eye for design was introduced very early in her life. I ran into fellow DLN members like Duval at this talk.
11:45 AM: Art and Innovation of Truly Bespoke Design
I had the opportunity to meet our client Tom Stringer before he spoke with Catherine Olasky and Elizabeth Pyne Singer, all amazing designs. They spoke about how they make every project unique and how they work with the craftsman for the pieces that are truly bespoke. I enjoyed how they discussed the process of vetting new vendors and that he is very careful to give his vendors a lot of time to get those special projects completed, but when he asks for a quick turnaround, they know he really needs it and respond with a fast deadline.
2:45 pm The Benjamin Moore Book Club
Benjamin Moore’s Book Club had four authors of new books either just released or coming soon to discuss their take on color at the Benjamin Moore showroom. The conversation was fun and engaging, and I loved that Cathy Purple Cherry shared details on how to use color for her projects. They had a bouquet bar with a florist making beautiful flower bouquets for attendees. They gave us signed books from the authors, and the attendees loved every minute.
Lauren Korben, VP of Benjamin Moore, was a wonderful host and had a buzz in the showroom.
1:30 PM: Mentorship – Bring the Design Industry Forward
I really loved this conversation led by the president of NYCID, who discussed with four firm owners how they look at internship and mentorship. The crowd was full of both seasoned designers and young and up-and-coming ones. The panel of Kerry Delrose, Elizabeth Graziolo, Barry Gorolick, and Elizabeth Lawrence was very honest as they talked about their mentors in their lives, and they discussed how they handle their interns. Questions for the attendees about how to develop an intern into a full-time employee and how do 2nd career professional break into the design industry had the panelists giving wonderful responses.
2:45 pm Mitchell Gold Is Back!
This was a wonderful discussion at the Surya showroom about the return of Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams after going through a challenging bankruptcy. Satya, the president of Surya who acquired the brand, was on the panel, and along with Mitchel Gold, they talked about how they bring back great design, great quality with value, and on-time delivery. Mitchel talked about the history of Mitchel Gold, and Satya mimicked that his intention of bringing this brand back via trade only was to truly service the design industry and make sure they are treated well, and ensure that Mitchel Gold is around for the long haul. The crowd was electric about this new and the new collections that attendees got to see and sit on. There were at least a dozen ex-Mitchel Gold employees there to support this launch. Mitchell Gold & Bob Williams products will be showcased at Surya Showrooms for the time being
Conclusion
As I left the New York Design Center, my feet were tired, but my mind was racing. I had heard amazing new lines from industry veterans, an honest look at the future of design, and how important the design leaders take their role in mentorship. Meeting with old friends and clients and making new ones was also the icing on the cake.WNWN 2024 offered a thrilling glimpse into the future of interior design.
I left with signed designer books, a phone full of new contacts, and, most importantly, a head brimming with inspiration. “What’s New, What’s Next” once again proved why it’s an unmissable event for anyone passionate about design.
Did you attend WNWN 2024? If so, let us know about your experience.
About What’s New What’s Next
Each year, this iconic event celebrates what’s “new” and “next” in design: the latest trends, exciting new product introductions, and inspirational insights from a roster of elite designers.
WNWN is the must-attend event for the design world, bringing together the biggest and brightest in our industry. While this year’s event is still taking shape, the line-up promises to be bigger and better than ever. We have 100 participating showrooms, over 50 programs, and hundreds of new product launches.
From fresh color palettes to sumptuous textiles, statement lighting and furniture that will keep everyone talking long after they’ve left a room, to expert-led panel discussions and cocktail parties – this year’s WNWN has it all.
About the New York Design Center
The New York Design Center is the industry’s premier resource for fine furnishings.
Over 100 showrooms, including 33,000 square feet of antiques, are located on the 10th floor. 200 Lex serves as New York’s destination for designers across the US and beyond.
The New York Design Center welcomes consumers, inviting them to tour the showrooms. Our Access to Design™ program offers consumers guidance on working with a designer and shopping the building. For more information, visit the Access to Design™ office in Suite 424.
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