From cutting-edge lighting solutions and sustainable housing to high-end appliances and revolutionary surface materials, students from St. Clair College's Interior Design program got an immersive look into the future of built environment during a recent trip to the International Design Show – IDS 26 – at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
IDS Toronto 2026 is Canada's premier four-day interior design fair, showcasing Canadian and global design, bridging the gap between emerging talent and established legacy brands. The show introduces visitors to future design trends, innovative materials, and AI-driven technology, featuring keynote speakers, installations, and over 250 international exhibitors.
The event focuses on the future of residential and commercial design, including exhibits on "How We Work" – incorporating workplace design – and a "Furniture Forecast."
Prof. Patrick Redko, Instructor/designer Shannon Didham, and the first-and second-year Interior Design students from St. Clair College traveled to Toronto to engage with the latest innovations and industry standards at this world-renowned event.
The experience served as a vital bridge between classroom theory and industry reality.
"As an aspiring interior designer and student, there is nothing more motivating than attending the Toronto Interior Design Show," said Lily Wiebe, a second-year student in the Interior Design program. "Being able to meet designers face to face and experience real-world products and innovations makes all the work that I have put into my education really seem like a close reality."
The exhibition layout facilitated direct engagement with industry representatives, offering insights into the professional processes of companies like Keilhauer and Ico. This exposure to new and upcoming technology provides a significant asset for collegiate projects and prepares emerging designers for the transition into the professional workforce.
"Learning about new products and design capabilities not only broadens your thinking when working on your next projects but also enables you to build connections early on in your career," Wiebe said. "Once I graduate, I will be well-equipped with knowledge not only from St. Clair, but from the working world as well."
"Connections were made, and a new love for design was enveloped as I was able to see other successful designers do what I am passionate about and push the limits of design," Wiebe added.
Prof. Redko says the trip is an annual tradition for students in the Interior Design program because it gives students a chance to see design happening but also bond during their travels.
"Beyond the computer screen and magazine images, the students get the opportunity to engage with actual products," Prof. Redko said, noting the chance for students to interact with designers adds insight into how products could be incorporated into future projects.
"The IDS experience for students plants the design ideals into future generations. The students get to participate in the process of seeing upcoming products, features, and materials that current designers are using in their practice," Prof. Redko said.
"It's an opportunity to move beyond the classroom, into real-life experiential learning, which the Interior Design program has prided itself on for many years."
