With 50-plus programs packed into an eight-hour day, What’s New, What’s Next demands that designers tap into one of their key talents: curation. To decide which panels are an absolute can’t-miss, step one is to ask yourself, “What’s my motivation?” For many, the New York Design Center’s signature event (taking place this year on Thursday, September 19) kicks off the fall season—it’s the first place to spot the latest trends in fabrics, furnishings, floorcoverings and lighting. Others put the bottom line at the top of their list, eager to discover fresh business insights. And then there are those who simply love the scene, excited by the chance to rub shoulders with globe-trotting design stars, chic shelter editors and savvy brand pros. Point being, having a focus helps narrow the field, empowering you to choose your own adventure accordingly.
“No matter what you decide to do at WNWN, you are going to have an amazing, worthwhile experience,” says Alix Lerman, chief marketing officer at 200 Lex. For WNWN’s 16th iteration, Lerman and her team took an especially proactive approach to the programming, meeting with each showroom to determine topics that go beyond never-before-seen products (“the DNA of the event”), integrating those debuts into a larger discussion about the future of the design industry. “We made sure every panel was compelling and relevant and included people whose perspectives might be a bit unexpected,” she adds.
The resulting lineup means that attendees eager for a briefing on current trends can explore them within the context of longevity at lively talks moderated by Veranda editor in chief Steele Marcoux and Luxe Interiors + Design editor in chief Jill Cohen. If craft and customization is your passion, swing by Nasiri and Interlude Home, the latter of which invited five creatives to upholster a piece in their choice of Kravet fabrics. Those prioritizing more pragmatic skills can learn about investing in photography at a panel hosted by Business of Home editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen or the symbiotic impact of mentorship in a conversation conducted by New York School of Interior Design president David Sprouls. House of Hackney leads the way in the sustainability discourse, while special guests at the Verellen and Fromental/Collier Webb showrooms investigate the potential of design to not only spark joy but actually improve health. Hobnobbing opportunities abound, with book signings, light bites, cocktail toasts and social networking sessions hosted by Fermob, Palecek, Sedgwick & Brattle, Townhouse Kitchens, and David Sutherland, to name a few. And that’s just a small sampling of the programming.
It’s all thriller, no filler, so pace yourself. To get a head start mapping out your itinerary, the current program schedule follows. And remember: 200 Lex’s website, Instagram and e-newsletter are updated with previews and events year-round. “What’s New, What’s Next is one day,” says Lerman, “but the sense of community we create echoes for months to come. Until the next one!”
10:00 a.m. | Designing for the Long Haul
Hosted by David Sutherland
In conversation with Andrew Kotchen, Delia Kenza and Ken Fulk, Elle Decor editor in chief Asad Syrkett addresses the essence of timeless design and the challenge of creating impactful contemporary interiors that will both endure and evolve within the context of ever-changing trends.
10:45 a.m. | Artful Interiors: Insights from Kips Bay Showhouse Alums
Hosted by John Pomp Showroom
Featuring former Kips Bay designers Sasha Bikoff, Swati Goorha, Shawn Henderson and David Scott on a panel moderated by Elissa Auther, deputy director of curatorial affairs at the Museum of Arts and Design, this discussion focuses on how to integrate art and collectibles into interiors to create curated, elevated spaces.
11:00 a.m. | Get Happy! How to Bring Joy into Your Work and Your Clients’ Lives
Hosted by Fromental and Collier Webb
Join Amy Lau, David Kaihoi, Elizabeth Graziolo, Leyden Lewis and William Cullum for a fun, rapid-fire chat moderated by Wendy Goodman, design editor of New York and Curbed, about getting and giving more joy.
11:00 a.m. | Using Architectural Lighting Systems for Interior Lightscaping
Hosted by Sonneman
Sonneman vice president of sales Matt Sonneman conducts this CEU-accredited course and presents new innovations from the company’s Suspenders lighting systems.
11:15 a.m. | Investing in Interior Photography
Hosted by Brown Jordan
Business of Home editor in chief Kaitlin Petersen sits down with Christina Kim, Courtney McLeod, Joe Lucas and Noz Nozawa to detail how to build a polished, high-profile portfolio of projects that will move the needle forward for your business.
11:30 a.m. | Designing Through the Decades: Staying Relevant in the Ever-Changing World of Design
Hosted by The Gallery at 200 Lex
Celebrating 40 years of Cullman & Kravis, Luxe Interiors + Design editor in chief Jill Cohen interviews founder Ellie Cullman and partners Lee Cavanaugh, Sarah Ramsey and Alyssa Urban about the firm’s milestone anniversary and its vision for the future. The designers will also talk about their new book, Interiors (Rizzoli), and sign copies following the talk.
11:45 a.m. | The Art and Innovation of Truly Bespoke Design
Hosted by JD Staron
Panelists Catherine Olasky, Elizabeth Pyne Singer, Darren Henault and Tom Stringer explore how artistry, craftsmanship and innovation combine to create bespoke, distinctive and completely personalized design.
12:00 p.m. | Inspired Design: The World of Corey Damen Jenkins
Hosted by Century Furniture
In a conversation sure to be full of insights and surprises, Flower magazine founder and editor in chief Margot Shaw speaks with the acclaimed interior designer about his approach, aesthetic, motivations and muses.
12:15 p.m. | The Female Quotient: A Conversation with Members of the Decorators Club
Hosted by Pindler
While honoring the contributions of women in the industry, Alexa Hampton, Young Huh, Suzanne Kasler, Cathy Kincaid and Elizabeth Pash share advice on entrepreneurship, brand development and career-building in a lively panel moderated by Chesie Breen, co-founder of strategic communications firm NivenBreen.
12:15 p.m. | Exclusive Preview of the NeKeia Collection Expansion with Ngala Trading
Hosted by Ngala Trading Co.
In advance of the official debut at High Point in October, designer Keia McSwain presents a sneak peek at her second collection with Ngala Trading, which now includes furniture and decor in addition to lighting, all handcrafted by artisans in Africa.
12:30 p.m. | A Life in Design: A Dialogue with Barbara Barry and Galerie Magazine’s Jacqueline Terrebonne
Hosted by Baker
Offering a rare glimpse into her life in the industry and beyond it, the iconic designer speaks with the Galerie editor in chief about her philosophy, work process, passion for watercolors and gardening, and forthcoming furniture collection for the Baker and McGuire brands.
12:45 p.m. | Benjamin Moore Designer Book Club
Hosted by Benjamin Moore
Benjamin Reynaert leads a vibrant discussion with industry luminaries Oliver M. Furth, Kate Marker, Erik Evens and Cathy Purple Cherry about the transformative impact of paint color on design narratives. The first 50 attendees will receive a complimentary copy of a signed book.
1:00 p.m. | Celebrating Craftsmanship and Ralph Lauren Home’s Fall 2024 Modern Driver Collection
Hosted by Ralph Lauren Home
Michael Diaz-Griffith of the Design Leadership Network moderates a conversation among Joy Moyler, Mark Cunningham and Shawn Henderson about the craftsmanship and style behind Ralph Lauren Home’s new Modern Driver furnishings collection, which draws inspiration from the sculptural forms and luxe materials of classic automobiles.
1:00 p.m. | Couture Meets Comfort
Hosted by Lexington Home Brands
Artistica president and CEO Robert Yount presents the Lexington brand’s upholstery portfolio, exploring the development process behind the new silhouettes, their emphasis on comfort, the art of accenting the pieces with select case goods, and the latest trends in luxury textiles.
1:15 p.m. | Timeless Design: Classical and Contemporary Inspirations in the U.S.
Hosted by Amuneal
Distinguished architects and designers John Ike, James Hunter, Poonam Khanna and Craig Intinarelli discuss the dynamic interplay between classical and contemporary elements—including the particular challenges and possibilities of designing in New York and California—in a panel moderated by 1stDibs editorial director Anthony Barzilay Freund.
1:30 p.m. | A Founder’s Vision: In Conversation with Lucy Vaughan
Hosted by Vaughan
Meet the co-founder of the venerable British lighting, furniture and textile brand as she sits down with Quintessence founder Stacey Bewkes and recounts highlights from 40 years in the business. Against the backdrop of product introductions in the Stockbridge collection, the duo discusses the company’s commitment to heirloom-quality craftsmanship and its own pared-down aesthetic.
1:30 p.m. | The Art of the Mix
Hosted by The Bright Group
Guided by Interiors editor in chief Erika Heet, Rodney Lawrence, Alison Berger and Barbara Bouyea investigate the importance of lighting in design, determining ways to strike the perfect balance in every project.
1:30 p.m. | How Mentorship Brings the Design Industry Forward
Hosted by Theodore Alexander
Join David Sprouls of the New York School of Interior Design, Barry Goralnick, Elizabeth Graziolo, Elizabeth Lawrence and Kerry Delrose as they explore how to be not only a good mentor but also a good mentee, as well as how the ongoing exchange of information between generations benefits the evolution and financial well-being of the industry.
1:45 p.m. | I Want It My Way!
Hosted by Nasiri and Apropos
To bring a custom component to a project, designers remain indispensable, as do the manufacturers that provide such services. This panel of respected trade brands and interior designers—including Jan Whitson and Reine Cenac of Lee Industries, Seth Alguire of Jensen Outdoor, and designers Keith Baltimore, Megan Molten and Zandy Gammons—demystifies the customization process by sharing examples and advice.
2:00 p.m. | Cutting the Cord
Hosted by Visual Comfort & Co.
An esteemed panel of design pros—Jean Liu, Kyle Myers, Nathan Turner and Sean Lavin—speak with Veranda editor in chief Steele Marcoux about navigating the nuances of luxury lighting, from automated systems to portable options, in order to create truly illuminating spaces.
2:00 p.m. | Exploring the Importance of Craft, Production Techniques and Materiality
Hosted by Wexler Gallery
Artist Feyza Koksal Kemahlioglu and designer Valerie Peña discuss the significance of craft, the necessity of technique, and the curation of materials in modern interiors.
2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. | Truffles & Bubbles
Hosted by Sedgwick & Brattle
Raise a glass and savor a bite with celebrity designer Thom Filicia to toast What’s New, What’s Next 2024!
2:15 p.m. | Life Is a Painting and You Are the Artist: A Talk with Minnie Kemp
Hosted by Julian Chichester
The London- and New York–based artist, interior designer and design director of Firmdale Hotels describes the inspiration—and hard work—behind her most recent hospitality project, the Warren Street Hotel in Tribeca, a color-filled new build featuring 69 bedrooms, each with its own scheme.
2:15 p.m. | What Is ‘New’ and ‘Now’ in Design Today?
Hosted by Palecek
Antonio DeLoatch, DuVäl Reynolds, Leah Alexander, Petra McKenzie and Jonah Kilday answer the question of the day. From current trends to best practices, digital tools to analog challenges, no stone will go unturned in this vigorous debate moderated by creative marketing pro Beth Greene.
2:30 p.m. | Design Fusion: Discover the Critical Points of Collaboration in Design
Hosted by Arteriors
Moderated by Interior Design executive editor Annie Block, this panel featuring industry notables Matt Berman, Andrew Kline, Keita Turner and Melissa Reavis details ingenious strategies for combining disparate elements to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments—creating cohesive spaces and transforming how they’re experienced.
2:30 p.m. | Transformative Design: The Proven Science on the Healing Power of Beauty and Design
Hosted by Verellen
Mike Peterson, founder of Science in Design and an expert in the cutting-edge field of neuroaesthetics, reveals how beautiful interiors aren’t just pleasing to the eye but personally restorative—an “alternative health resource” that’s changing the future of the industry.
2:30 p.m. | Embracing Responsible Design: Transforming Interiors for a More Sustainable Future
Hosted by House of Hackney
Known for its nature-inspired interiors and regenerative mission, House of Hackney hosts this insightful panel on sustainability. Robert Walsh, founder of Woodworks by Ted Todd, and designers Sasha Bikoff and Young Huh join co-founder Frieda Gormley in a conversation moderated by photographer and freelance creative director Sophia Li.
2:45 p.m. | In Design We Trust: Building Loyalty in the Design Industry
Hosted by Dennis Miller New York
Luxe Interiors + Design executive editor Brittany Chevalier McIntyre oversees an insightful discussion among Anjali Pollack, Michelle Gerson, Joe Carline and Philip Gorrivan in which they consider how personal connections and brand loyalty drive career success. Following the panel, Gorrivan will sign copies of his new book, Authentic Interiors: Rooms That Tell Stories (Gibbs Smith).
2:45 p.m. | Balance: Walking the Tightrope of Design, Commerce and Inspiration
Hosted by Peter Dunham Home and Garden
How to do it all? T: The New York Times Style Magazine’s Tom Delavan conducts a chat with Billy Cotton, Dara Caponigro and Peter Dunham, three inspiring design leaders who just may have figured it out.
3:00 p.m. | The Art of Kitchen Design
Hosted by Townhouse Kitchens
Check out premium appliances from Cove, Sub-Zero and Wolf while sampling drinks and bites inspired by the favorite recipes of designer Mick De Giulio and Townhouse Kitchens owner Joy Young, who speak with Luxe Interiors + Design editor in chief Jill Cohen about the paramount importance of a beautifully appointed kitchen.
3:00 p.m. | Building a Successful Brand
Hosted by Rosemary Hallgarten
Creative consultant Parker Bowie Larson moderates a dynamic conversation about attracting luxury clientele with an irresistible, of-the-moment brand. Exploring the roles of photography, styling and social media in crafting compelling narratives, Rosemary Hallgarten, Hilary Matt and Sergio Mercado outline how to fashion an individual aesthetic and foster aspirational connections online.
3:15 p.m. | Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams’s Next Act
Hosted by Global Views, Surya and MG+BW
To celebrate Surya’s recent acquisition of MG+BW, Business of Home’s Dennis Scully sits down with Surya president Satya Tiwari and Mitchell Gold to discuss why Surya was the right partner, Gold’s role in the company’s next chapter, and what to expect from the legendary furniture brand moving forward.
3:15 p.m. | The Art of Authenticity: Creating a Genuine Bond Between Creator and Collector
Hosted by De La Vega Designs
Creative strategist Kate Verner moderates a conversation among Mark de la Vega, Courtney Brannan of Champalimaud Design, Alberto Vélez of Refractory, and Daniel Laporte of Peter Marino Architect that investigates the connection between art and furniture and identifies what counts as “collectible design.”
3:30 p.m. | Destination Design
Hosted by Lepere
Great design knows no borders, as the groundbreaking works of this esteemed panel definitively prove. Todd Raymond, Joe DiNapoli, Dan Yoder, Gaby Gargano and Francis Nicdao discuss the revolutionary concepts and cosmopolitan, contemporary practices that have taken them to far-flung destinations.
3:30 p.m. | Designing Future-Proof Landscapes: A Sustainable Approach to the Outdoors
Hosted by Royal Botania
Along with Aspire Design and Home deputy editor Jennifer Quail, landscape architects Janice Parker and Stacy and Jonathan Paetzel explore strategies for creating eco-friendly landscapes that are beautiful and resilient, discussing how to prioritize native flora, choose outdoor furniture, protect it from deer and other garden pests, and more.
3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. | A Toast to Perennials by Timothy Corrigan!
Hosted by David Sutherland
The esteemed designer presents his new book, At Home in France: Inspiration and Style in Town and Country (Rizzoli), as well as his latest fabric and rug collection for Perennials, and guests are invited to purchase a signed copy of the book afterward.
3:45 p.m. | Managing Business from Coast to Coast
Hosted by Crosby Street Studios
In an increasingly global industry, with more demands from more places than ever before, how do you manage projects—and client expectations—when you’re on the other side of the country? Frederic senior design editor Hudson Moore asks industry titans Ross Padluck, Meg Joannides, Nate Rubin and Dave Raines for their best practices, such as how to tap into talent and technology to keep on top of it all.
3:45 p.m. | Collective Effervescence: The Joy in Shared Experiences
Hosted by Fair
Stop by Fair for a frothy conversation moderated by Wendy Goodman, design editor of New York and Curbed, about the fun to be found when the worlds of food, farms, fields and interiors meet. Panelists Mary Celeste Beall of Blackberry Farm, chef and restaurateur Marcus Samuelsson, and designer Brad Ford, founder of Field + Supply, share their personal stories.
3:45 p.m. to 5:45 p.m. | Celebrate the Opening of Amy Lau Design
Hosted by Amy Lau Design Gallery
Lau applies her refined and informed aesthetic to her new gallery, embracing art and design with a dynamic mix of vintage and contemporary pieces. Artworks from all over the world are displayed alongside turn-of-the-century objects handpicked by the designer.
4:00 p.m. | Fermob French Apéro Open House
Hosted by Fermob
Before summer officially comes to an end, join Fermob for one last festive French apéro while viewing the latest collection from the outdoor furniture and lighting brand.
4:00 p.m. | A Multihyphenate Masterclass
Hosted by Kravet
In conversation with multitalented icons Breegan Jane, Jeffrey Alan Marks and Thom Filicia, House Beautiful editorial director Joanna Saltz extolls the virtues of mastering many disciplines and uncovers how the three designers’ varied strengths and skill sets invite new opportunities.
4:15 p.m. | A Special Relationship: A Designers’ Take on the Idiosyncrasies Between British and American Interior Design
Hosted by Jennifer Manners Modern Carpets
Does a red thread run across the so-called pond, connecting British and American design? In a transatlantic panel hosted by Jessica Cumberbatch Anderson, U.S. editor of Livingetc, industry personalities Zoë Feldman, Bethany Gale, and Damian and Britt Zunino contemplate the differences—and similarities—between the two countries’ styles.
4:30 p.m. | Our Frames, Your Fabric
Hosted by Interlude Home
Interlude Home conducted a clever assignment, tapping Rayman Boozer, Susan Glick, Tamela Greathouse Greene and Melanie Calder—along with its own director of merchandising and New York showroom manager, Leslie Weiss—to create a custom piece using Kravet fabric. Come witness the big reveal, enjoy a Negroni, and chat with the designers about the convenience of the COM process.
4:30 p.m. | Elevated Experiences: How Today’s Tastemakers Define the Good Life
Hosted by The Gallery at 200 Lex
In an age of excess, what does living well mean? Moderated by lifestyle maven Parker Bowie Larson, this panel will mine the question of how to curate a mindful, joyous existence with input from photographer Nick Mele, entertaining expert Bronson van Wyck, fashion designer Jessie Randall and Town & Country style news editor Isiah Magsino.
4:30 p.m. | Meet the Maker: Matthew Fisher
Hosted by Amuneal
Surrounded by examples of his latest works, the dancer turned designer shares what attracted him to stonework and talks about his upcoming showroom opening with Amuneal CEO Adam Kamens. A cocktail reception follows the conversation.
4:45 p.m. | A Culture of Design: Exploring the Cultural Influence of Mexican Design in Contemporary Spaces
Hosted by Jiun Ho NY
Vivid colors, traditional patterns, diverse architecture and masterful crafts make Mexico an endless source of inspiration. With guests Newell Turner, Javier Burkle and Patrick McBride, cosmopolitan creator Jiun Ho takes part in a spirited conversation moderated by Saana Baker of The Textile Eye about how the country continuously influences design throughout the world.
4:45 p.m. | Unemotional Craft: How Does It Make You Feel?
Hosted by 1600
In an emotionally attuned conversation chaired by AD100 designer Billy Cotton, industry leaders Bernie de Le Cuona, Luteca founder Sébastien Réant and KGBL founder Christiaan Bunce get to the heart of the connection that handcraftsmanship fosters between artisan and client.
5:00 p.m. | What’s It?
Hosted by Dennis & Leen
Everyone’s searching for “it,” but “it” can be so hard to define, never mind find! Rising design stars John Bambick, Abigail Marcelo Horace and Kate Ives Marshall—all members of the Frederic It List Class of 2024—share their secrets for capturing the elusive, enchanting essence of the moment, in conversation with the magazine’s senior design editor, Hudson Moore.
5:00 p.m. | Afternoon Tea with Tom and Tim: Talking British Design in the U.S.
Hosted by Tom Faulkner
Furniture maker Tom Faulkner joins Tim Butcher of Fromental to debut Capricorn, a unique wallcovering they created together. In a thought-provoking dialogue with English design journalist Busola Evans, the pair consider the power of collaboration, pushing boundaries, and finding the perfect balance between British and American sensibilities—and markets.
5:15 p.m. | Global Influences in Modern Interior Design
Hosted by Sossego and Modern Brazilian Design
Architect Kelly Solon joins designers Tina Ramchandani and Anelle Gandelman to investigate the dynamic intersection of global influences on New York’s vibrant interior design scene. After the panel, continue the conversation while experiencing a taste of Brazil through its food, drink, art and music.
5:15 p.m. | The Tea with Grant Trick and Friends
Hosted by Avery Boardman
The craftsman and creative director gets cozy with close industry friends Gail Davis, Jessica Davis, David Frazier and Laura Jenkins, encouraging them to spill the tea about their best and worst client experiences, greatest mistakes and biggest risks. It’s a rare opportunity to eavesdrop on a refreshingly honest convo about the ups and downs of the design business.
5:30 p.m. | AAPI Design Alliance Event
Hosted by Lorin Marsh
Meet the East Coast chapter of the Asian American Pacific Islander Design Alliance, learn how to become a member, and enjoy drinks and nibbles while toasting Jackson Gladden, president of Lorin Marsh, on the eve of the brand’s transition into a new showroom space this fall.
5:30 p.m. | Defining Talent and Excellence in Interior Design
Hosted by Cliff Young Ltd.
Aspire Design and Home editor Paul Hagen corrals a roster of talents from the upcoming Brooklyn Heights Designer Showhouse—including designers Lynn Kloythanomsup, Jennifer Morris, Steven Walsh and Hormuz Batliboi and event co-chair Erika Belsey Worth—to analyze the many different dimensions of excellence in interior design. Delving into the concept of anti-exceptionalism, challenging traditional elitist views, and instead emphasizing the power of collaboration, inclusivity and community, the panel puts a fine point on the nature of what’s next.
This story is a paid promotion and was created in partnership with New York Design Center.
Homepage image: Courtesy of New York Design Center
