What is the essence of design?  Many will look to the past. As Danes, we wouldn’t be where we are today without our proud past. The legends of our design masters continue to live on in our hearts, and in the spirit behind so many designs today. Whereas, others will look to the future. You can make a trajectory of possibilities and predictions. Still, it’s all conjecture. Speculation. The past is rich with stories that will forever inspire us. The future is full of stories yet to be told.  

So where does that leave us? In one of the most profound places you can be.  The present. Where the only moment that matters is now. It’s a compelling point of view that inspired our next theme: Make This Moment Matter.

Implicit in our theme is an imperative to define your purpose. Your 'why.' When your why is clear, every move is tied to meaning. Because a design without purpose is static, merely occupying space. But a design imbued with meaning and emotion will matter. It involves choosing materials that won’t be harmful to the planet, creating interiors that enhance our wellbeing, and building communities that will foster a sense of belonging. Your actions will inspire others, and it will have a ripple effect.

“Make This Moment Matter is a positive form of empowerment, urging people to create something with a purpose that’s meaningful. As a design community, we have the wherewithal to make a difference. We have each other. It takes courage to create, and I hope Make This Moment Matter gives designers the impetus to be proactive, and to take action without all the answers.”  

 ^{Signe Byrdal Terenziani, CEO & Managing Director of 3daysofdesign}

Life is a mosaic of moments, and every moment is an opportunity. So think about the legacy you want to leave behind. Starting now. Make This Moment Matter.

New Theme, New Artwork

At 3daysofdesign, whenever we introduce a new theme, we unveil a new visual identity. This year’s artwork is created by the design studio and exhibition space called On Display, a collective of emerging, cross–disciplinary creatives. Founded by Anders Gerning, Marie Heissel and Tor S. Johannesen, they bring a collaborative approach to their work, from visual identities to spatial design.  

Our 2026 artwork consists of two elements merged together in a collage. A poetic still life of a black lily in a flower vase with an Origami Teller superimposed on top. The juxtaposition of stillness and movement, reality and reflection evoke a certain anticipation — alluding to the moment in between the past and the future. Symbolised by the Origami Teller, a playful and universal object involving questions with hidden answers inside, which you open to reveal. 

“The theme for 2026, Make This Moment Matter, feels like a gentle push to slow down and pay attention. For us, it’s about finding that balance between being fully present in what we’re doing right now, while being aware about how our choices affect our surroundings. 3daysofdesign has a warm, welcoming atmosphere and is open for everyone to explore. We respect and admire this approach, and we’re looking forward to contributing to this through our artwork.”

^{On Display}