Must-see design events in October

Fall Trade Gatherings and Shows to Mark Your Calendar

As the season transitions into fall, the design industry is gearing up for a series of exciting trade gatherings and shows. From Atlanta to London, New York to Mexico City, these events offer unique opportunities for professionals and enthusiasts to explore the latest trends, network with industry leaders, and discover innovative products. Here’s a comprehensive list of must-attend events happening next month.

Atlanta Homes & Lifestyles Serenbe Designer Showhouse

Taking place in Chattahoochee Hills, Georgia, this event runs from September 19 to October 12. The 12th annual showhouse benefits the Art Farm at Serenbe’s Decorative Arts Fellowship and features a four-bedroom home showcasing the work of over 12 designers. A curated pop-up shop adds to the experience, making it a must-visit for design lovers.

Autumn Decorative Antiques & Textiles Fair

Held in London from September 30 to October 5, this fair brings together more than 130 dealers specializing in antiques, modernist design, and fine and decorative art. Located at Evolution London in Battersea Park, the event offers a wide range of items from traditional antiques to contemporary pieces, spanning from the 1700s to the 1970s.

Kips Bay Decorator Show House New York

Returning to New York on September 30 and running through October 19, this event features a historic Greenwich Village townhouse decorated by 21 renowned designers. Proceeds support the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club, making it both an inspiring and charitable experience.

Archtober

From October 1 to 31, New York hosts its 15th annual Archtober festival, celebrating architecture with over 1,500 events. Highlights include subway tours and architecture boat tours around Manhattan, offering a unique perspective on the city's architectural landscape.

Curating an Equitable Art Collection

On October 7, Serena & Lily hosts an evening celebrating its new editorial destination, The Library. This event features a conversation with Dennis Scully, host of The Business of Home Podcast, and local designer Erin Shakoor, focusing on celebrating female artists.

Design Week Mexico

Taking place in Mexico City from October 7 to 12, this annual design week showcases Mexican and international design. Highlights include the “Print” exhibit and “Vision & Tradition” residency program, with the flagship event being Design House, a showhouse featuring spaces created by top firms.

Frederic Magazine 2025 It List Awards Gala

Held in New York on October 8, this third annual event honors 12 up-and-coming designers globally. Winners receive a $10,000 stipend to support their business growth.

Design Chicago

Running from October 8 to 9, this Midwest’s largest residential design conference features the latest in kitchen, bath, and home furnishings products. Presentations include digital brand building and contract basics, with an opening-night reception and a soiree.

Desert Design Week

From October 8 to 15, Phoenix and Scottsdale celebrate art, design, and architecture with events like a conversation on antiques featuring designer Molly Kidd and a panel on how landscapes shape design.

Field + Supply Fall Mrkt

Taking place in Kingston, New York, from October 10 to 12, this biannual maker’s market connects the design community with expert artisans. Featuring 275 vendors, it includes live music, demos, and happy hours.

Decorex

Held at Olympia Events from October 12 to 15, this annual design show attracts over 13,000 visitors. With more than 280 exhibitors and 85 talks, it offers networking and learning opportunities for designers.

PAD London

From October 14 to 19, this event focuses on 20th-century and contemporary design, featuring galleries from around the world. It serves as a sister event to Paris Art + Design.

D&D Fall Market

Taking place in New York from October 15 to 16, this seasonal market showcases luxury brands from the Decoration & Design Building. It includes product introductions, keynote discussions, and networking receptions.

Behind the Design with Area Environments

Hosted at the Holly Hunt showroom on October 16, this interactive art demonstration features visual artist Wendy Westlake showcasing her latest wallpaper collection.

Palm Springs Modernism Week

From October 16 to 19, this biannual festival celebrates midcentury architecture and design in Palm Springs. Activities include architecture tours, home tours, film screenings, and lectures.

The San Francisco Fall Show

Running from October 16 to 19, this Fort Mason event is one of the longest-running art, antiques, and design fairs on the West Coast. It features dozens of dealers showcasing paintings, furniture, ceramics, jewelry, and rugs.

Dwell Open House: Los Angeles

On October 18, this event allows select attendees to tour three Los Angeles homes featured in Dwell. Guests start at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House before exploring private homes.

Design Miami.Paris

Taking place in Paris from October 21 to 26, this global forum for collectible design features exhibitions of historical and contemporary furniture, lighting, and art.

Design Dialogues: Navigating Outdoor Kitchen Options

This online course on October 22 explores the basics of designing outdoor kitchens, covering different types and installation timelines, materials, and costs.

Get Down to Business at ADAC

Held in Atlanta on October 22, this one-day event helps designers improve their business skills, covering topics from brand building to photo styling.

A Creative Evening at Tim Clarke Design Hosted by Schumacher

On October 23, this event in Santa Monica offers a first look at Schumacher’s new collection, along with creative stations and treats.

High Point Fall Market

From October 25 to 29, this biannual design event gathers tens of thousands of professionals. Programming includes panels, talks, and social events, with insights from industry experts.

ISFD Pinnacle Awards

Taking place in High Point, North Carolina, on October 27, this annual ceremony honors professional and student designers in the furniture and textile industries.

Dallas Design Social

Held in Dallas on October 30, this event connects interior designers with artisans and entrepreneurs, featuring talks and networking opportunities.