The design world is descending upon New York City once again. As the anchor of NYCxDESIGN, the International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) returns to the Javits Center from May 17-19, 2026.
This year’s theme, Common Ground: A Global Dialogue on Design and Shared Values, marks a pivotal shift for North America’s leading contemporary design platform. ICFF 2026 isn’t just a marketplace; it’s a cross-disciplinary forum tackling the urgent social, environmental, and material questions of our time.
Here is everything you need to know about the partnerships, exhibitions, and speakers defining this year’s fair.
- Dates: May 17-19, 2026 (May 19 public day)
- Location: Javits Center, NYC
- Key Event: ICFF Editors Awards – May 17 at 5:00 PM
- Registration: Visit icff.com to secure your pass
Discover ICFF 2025
ICFF entrance, 2025. Photo Jenna Bascom, from ICFF website
Design with purpose: the Habitat for Humanity Partnership
In a landmark move, ICFF has announced its first-ever charity partnership with Habitat for Humanity NYC and Westchester. This initiative focuses on equitable housing and affordable homeownership. A portion of all ICFF 2026 registration proceeds will go directly to Habitat’s mission; beyond financial aid, the partnership includes material resources and in-kind support to build a more inclusive New York.
Dan Rosen at ICCF Editor Awards 2025. Photo Jenna Bascom, from ICFF website
Landmark Exhibitions: Bauhaus to healthy materials
ICFF 2026 is bridging the gap between design history and future innovation through two major curated showcases:
- Rarify x Bauhaus Archive Berlin: In a historic first, Rarify – in partnership with Tecta and the Bauhaus Archive Berlin – will display original Bauhaus drawings, prints, and artifacts. This exhibition marks the first time a living manufacturer has united with the official archive at ICFF
- The Materials Section: Led by Jonsara Ruth (Healthy Materials Lab at Parsons), this new exhibit explores sustainable sourcing and non-toxic building. Sponsored by Hydro, Cosentino, and Habitat Matters, it’s a must-visit for eco-conscious architects
ICFF recharge Lounge 2025
Emerging Talent & WANTED Expansion at ICFF 2026
The WANTED segment continues to be a relevant section of ICFF, focusing on the next generation of designers:
- Emerging Designer Spotlight (EDS): Partnering with Clever and Amy Devers, this year-long program culminates in a live presentation
- Schools Showcase: Featuring 20+ international design schools, presented alongside Design Milk
- Launch Pad: Sponsored by American Standard, this remains the premier platform for independent designers to debut new prototypes
- Look Book: An expanded gallery of 70+ North American design studios, presented in partnership with Dezeen
The Talks Program: 90+ Voices on Common Ground
The 2026 talks program is the most expansive in the fair’s history. Key speakers and moderators include:
- Future of Housing: William Hanley (Dwell) discusses affordable housing solutions
- Design Media: Tiffany Jow (Untapped Journal) leads a panel with Lila Allen, Dan Rubinstein, and Jill Singer on the evolution of design journalism
- New York’s Economy: Julie Lasky (The New York Times) moderates a deep dive into the city’s design fiscal landscape
- Global Dialogue: Amit Gupta (STIRworld) explores cross-cultural design influences
ICFF 2025: Bespoke area
Immersive Lounges & Networking
ICFF 2026 transforms the Javits Center into a living ecosystem of hospitality and residential design:
- Bespoke Salon: Designed by Post Company, focusing on “The Art of Making”
- The Oasis: A relaxation space sponsored by Ethnicraft, Leon Speakers, and Mohawk Group.
- Juniper Recharge Lounge: Featuring expanded lighting programming
- ICFF Night Out: On May 15, the celebration hits the streets of NoMad, SoHo, and the Flatiron districts
- Dates: May 17-19, 2026 (May 19 public day)
- Location: Javits Center, NYC
- Key Event: ICFF Editors Awards – May 17 at 5:00 PM
- Registration: Visit icff.com to secure your pass