World Design Capital 2026: Wiesbaden helps shape it
Together with the Frankfurt RhineMain metropolitan region, Wiesbaden is World Design Capital 2026! Under the motto "Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a better life", sustainable projects are being created that show how design positively shapes the city and society.
In 2026, the Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region will hold the title of World Design Capital (WDC) - an award presented every two years by the World Design Organization® (WDO). It recognizes cities and regions that use design as a tool to solve social, economic and environmental challenges. Under the motto "Let's design how we want to live", the WDC 2026 focuses on innovative and sustainable projects that make the region fit for the future.
As part of this metropolitan region, Wiesbaden will also play an active role in shaping the program. Numerous initiatives, companies and cultural professionals have contributed creative ideas to use design as a shaping force for our city.
Project management by the WDC project office in Frankfurt
The overall coordination of the World Design Capital 2026 lies with the specially established WDC project office in Frankfurt, which manages the strategic planning, program development and communication for the entire Frankfurt Rhine-Main metropolitan region. It acts as a central point of contact for all those involved, networks players from the fields of design, business, culture and urban development and ensures the coherent implementation of the program.
The project office accompanies the selected projects on their way to realization, organizes events and initiates collaborations to promote the topic of "Design for Democracy. Atmospheres for a better life" in the region. The state capital is in close contact with the project office to ensure that local initiatives are effectively integrated into the overall program.
Procedure & participation of Wiesbaden
Preparations for 2026 are also in full swing here in Wiesbaden:
- The city of Wiesbaden and the Wiesbaden Chamber of Industry and Commerce are working closely together to bring the theme of the WDC 2026 more into the city's society.
- Networks between creative artists, companies and institutions are being further expanded.
- Events, workshops and cooperation formats are being developed by the project initiators in order to bring design to life as a driver of innovation in various areas.
Outlook & added value for Wiesbaden
Participation in the World Design Capital 2026 offers Wiesbaden long-term opportunities:
- Strengthening the creative and design industries: companies, start-ups and creative artists will benefit from new collaborations and increased visibility.
- Innovative urban development: Projects in the areas of public space, mobility and sustainable construction will provide sustainable impetus.
- International attention: As part of the WDC 2026, Wiesbaden will become the focus of international networks and specialist audiences.
- Social dialog: Design serves as a bridge between business, culture and urban society and creates spaces for new forms of collaboration.
Together with partners from business, culture and society, the city of Wiesbaden will actively shape the next steps in order to make the best possible use of the potential of the World Design Capital 2026 for the city.