Lake Como Design Festival announces its eighth edition, taking place from September 12 to 20, 2026. Confine (Border) is the central theme of this new appointment. A boundary not only as a line that divides territories, ideas, states of mind, or levels of consciousness, but also as a point of encounter—a space that defines while connecting. It is a zone of tension and transformation, of contact and exchange. To reflect on this theme today is not only to question where “the other” ends, but to rediscover ourselves — to understand who we are and the direction we wish to take. Nine days of exhibitions, installations, and talks will unfold across a network of venues, offering multiple perspectives on the concept of the boundary. Stay tuned!

OPEN CALL – CONTEMPORARY DESIGN SELECTION 2026

Lake Como Design Festival invites to take part in the selection process for the “Contemporary Design Selection” section. The deadline for submitting applications is April 30th, 2026. The selected works will be showcased in Como from September 12–20, 2026, within a group exhibition curated by Giovanna Massoni and directed by Francesca Prandelli. This open call is aimed at designers, artisans, architects, artists, companies, editors, galleries; duos of designers of different nationalities, genders and/or backgrounds; groups/collectives of designers; designers working in urban, rural or suburban communities; designers who collaborate with non-design businesses or associations (e.g. restaurants, reception homes, prisons, reception centres, etc.). Publishers and galleries are also welcome to sponsor participants and may submit one or more artists. Unique pieces, limited editions and serial products are admitted to the selection for the indoor and outdoor categories for a maximum of two projects per designer, at least one of which must be a preview. To participate, please carefully read the information brochure and complete the application form.