Design PLANT – Distill: Infusing Roots – Refining Creativity. Bangkok Design Week 2026 If we regard the stories around us as “raw materials” for design, we begin to see global signals—geopolitical conflict, supply-chain uncertainty, new ways of living, environmental crises, sustainability and the circular economy, an aging society, and the expanding role of AI—interwoven with Thailand’s social context and identity: indigenous knowledge, culture, beliefs, language, materials, making skills, craftsmanship, climate, everyday life, and local rituals. Together they form a “living reservoir of resources” awaiting reinterpretation through the lens and process of design. As we gradually distill these materials into their essence, the outcome is contemporary design that moves beyond applying familiar motifs or historic forms and instead reaches into mindset, process, and production systems that fit our time—connecting directly to daily life, in both Thai and international contexts. Design Plant – Distill invites professional designers and students—from product and furniture to everyday objects—to distill–filter–mature creative ideas, making their design processes and production skills visible. The exhibition allows visitors to experience the journey “from the scent of ideas to the feel of finished work,” affirming that design can be both an early warning and a way forward (S.O.S) for society, the economy, and the environment. To date, DESIGN PLANT has served as a hub and collaborative workspace for Thai designers, presenting product and furniture works that contemporize Thai culture. This year, DESIGN PLANT extends beyond a space for conceptual experimentation to deeper collaboration with manufacturers—elevating the platform into a business-ready dimension, demonstrating the power of working together, and opening up “endless possibilities” for Thailand’s creative industry. Under the Design Plant – Distill concept, both Professional and Academic designers will be selected in line with the exhibition theme. Designers remain responsible for their own production processes, reflecting professionalism, creativity, and manufacturability. At the same time, DESIGN PLANT will provide guidance and match suitable, standards-based manufacturers in Thailand—creating new experiences that can lead to future collaborations and a stronger, more resilient creative-industry ecosystem.