Frankfurt RheinMain sets the stage for World Design Capital 2026
Under the theme “Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a Better Life,” the initiative will transform public spaces, foster community collaboration, and showcase cutting-edge design through international events, exhibitions, and partnerships.
Frankfurt RheinMain is making strides toward its role as the World Design Capital – WDC 2026 with the unveiling of its preliminary programme at the Ambiente Fair in Messe Frankfurt. Built around the theme “Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a Better Life,” the initiative aims to highlight the transformative power of design through collaborations with cultural institutions, academia, and businesses. The programme positions Frankfurt RheinMain as a global hub of innovation and creativity.
Designing a future for democratic values
WDC 2026 is structured around seven key themes that emphasize the role of design in shaping democratic societies and improving quality of life:
- Preserving Democratic Spaces – Advocating for public and protected areas, such as the GündiWest project for formerly homeless individuals and the Kulturcampus Frankfurt redevelopment.
- Fostering Community Bonds – Encouraging social inclusion with projects like the Kelkheim city festival and the Kiosk of Solidarity, an initiative supporting marginalized groups.
- Experiencing Design Through the Senses – Exploring democratic values through sensory projects like urban dance performances and the “A Step Ahead” exhibition at Mathildenhöhe Darmstadt.
- Progressing Through Innovation – Enhancing digital access via the Bibliotheken digifit initiative, modernizing libraries across the region.
- Empowering the Next Generation – Engaging students with hands-on design experiences through initiatives like Domäne S, transforming underutilized urban spaces into creative hubs.
- Integrating Design Into Society – Examining how design shapes social change, highlighted by the “Typography for Democracy” series.
- Connecting with Academia – Strengthening partnerships with universities to foster research and interdisciplinary projects in design.
Exciting events in 2025 and 2026
A series of major events will bring WDC 2026 to life across the region, engaging local and international audiences:
- Design Month: August 2026 will feature exhibitions, public installations, and interactive design experiences.
- World Design Experience: A nine-day event in early summer 2026 showcasing global design talent and local innovation.
- World Design Street Festivals: Transforming neighborhoods into cultural playgrounds with art, music, and public interventions.
- World Design Policy Conference: A prestigious gathering of global thought leaders discussing the role of design in shaping policy.
- WDC Pavilion: A mobile and sustainable exhibition space that will travel across the region, making design accessible to different communities.
- FestivalHub at Museum Angewandte Kunst: A central venue for exhibitions, discussions, and networking.
Insights from key stakeholders
City Councillor Dr. Ina Hartwig stressed the importance of WDC 2026, noting, “This is an opportunity for Frankfurt RheinMain to emerge as a leading city in creative, economic, and social innovation. Given the current global challenges, using design to reinforce democratic principles is more critical than ever.“
District Administrator Ulrich Krebs emphasized that WDC 2026 is a “strategic investment in the region’s future,” urging businesses and communities to play an active role in its development.
CEO Carolina Romahn and Chief Programme Officer Barbara Lersch highlighted the diverse range of projects shaping WDC 2026, stating, “We have curated an engaging programme from our Open Call submissions and are excited to continue expanding it with new collaborations and creative contributions.“
Funding and Implementation
The initiative is financially backed by the Hessian Ministry of Economic Affairs as part of the Innovation Promotion Hessen programme. The City of Frankfurt, in partnership with Kulturfonds Frankfurt RheinMain, leads the implementation through Design FRM gGmbH, originally established to oversee the city’s WDC bid.
International and Regional Impact
In the lead-up to 2026, Frankfurt RheinMain will participate in international design festivals and exhibitions in cities such as London, Vienna, and Eindhoven. Locally, WDC Embassies will serve as information hubs, ensuring widespread community engagement.
The WDC Workshop Truck, which has been traveling across the region since 2024, continues to bring design discussions to local communities, while the WDC Regulars’ Table, a monthly networking event, fosters ongoing dialogue among creatives and the public.
Looking to the future
With a strong emphasis on inclusivity, sustainability, and democratic values, WDC 2026 is set to make Frankfurt RheinMain a global center of creative innovation. As the programme evolves, businesses, designers, and the wider community are encouraged to take part in this transformative initiative, ensuring that design remains a powerful force for social progress.
