Home » EUROPE » London to Host World Design Congress 2025: A Global Event Driving Innovation and Tourism
Published on
August 27, 2025
In September 2025, London will host the 34th edition of the World Design Congress, marking its first return to the city in over five decades. Organized by the World Design Organization (WDO) and the UK’s Design Council, this prestigious event will take place at the iconic Barbican Centre on 9–10 September 2025. Themed “Design for Planet,” the Congress aims to unite global design leaders to address climate change through innovative design solutions.
A Perfect Time to Visit London
Visitors attending the World Design Congress 2025 will find themselves in one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. The Barbican Centre is centrally located, providing easy access to London’s most famous landmarks, such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Museum of London. The city offers world-class dining, a vibrant arts scene, and diverse neighborhoods, making it an ideal destination for both business and leisure.
Beyond the Congress, tourists can explore London’s many attractions, from the historic West End theaters to the serene green spaces of Hyde Park. London also offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to unique boutique stays, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit.
The Global Design Community Comes Together
The World Design Congress is an important event for the global design community. It brings together leaders, innovators, and policymakers from all over the world to discuss the future of design and its role in tackling global challenges. The 2025 Congress will specifically focus on addressing climate change through design solutions that can be implemented on a global scale.
The Congress will emphasize the importance of sustainable design, highlighting how design can contribute to environmental protection, social equity, and economic resilience. This focus aligns with the goals of the United Nations Sustainable Development Agenda, making the Congress a significant platform for driving global change.
A Historic Return to London
The World Design Congress was last held in London in 1969 at the Southbank Centre, attended by nearly 1,000 participants from 39 countries. The 2025 edition returns to London after more than 50 years, reflecting the city’s enduring status as a hub for design excellence. The Barbican Centre, renowned for its brutalist architecture and commitment to sustainability, serves as the perfect venue for this significant event.
Impact on London’s Tourism
Hosting the World Design Congress is expected to significantly boost London’s tourism sector. The event will attract international visitors, including designers, policymakers, and academics, contributing to the city’s economy. In 2023, the Mayor’s “Let’s Do London” campaign helped deliver an additional £162 million in tourism spend, with 308,000 extra visitors generating increased demand for accommodation, dining, and cultural experiences.
The Congress will also enhance London’s reputation as a global design capital, attracting future international events and fostering long-term tourism growth.
Showcasing British Design Excellence
The World Design Congress will highlight the UK’s design sector, which contributes £97.4 billion to the economy and is growing at twice the national average. British designers will showcase innovative solutions to the climate crisis, emphasizing sustainability and creativity. The event will feature talks, workshops, exhibitions, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Planning Your Visit
Attendees can explore London’s rich cultural offerings during their visit. The Barbican Centre is situated in the heart of the city, surrounded by landmarks such as the Tower of London, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Museum of London. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, world-class dining, and diverse entertainment options
The Bottom Line
The World Design Congress London 2025 presents stakeholders in design and tourism an unparalleled chance. The event, which seeks to tackle global issues through design innovation, will catalyze inspirational change while further reinforcing London’s branding as a premier global hub for creativity and culture. To know more and to register, visit the official link.
