idd cologne 2025 is set to radically transform Cologne’s cityscape into a vibrant interior design stage by adopting a unique “urban-only” format. From 26 to 29 October, the premium interior design event will move beyond traditional exhibition halls to embrace carefully selected design locations throughout the city, bringing inspiration, brand presence and industry dialogue directly into Cologne’s urban heart.
The event’s urban concept was developed in close collaboration with the Association of the German Furniture Industry (VDM) and leading partners to present interior design as a holistic experience within the environments people live, work, and shop. This approach allows idd cologne to focus authentically on high-quality interior solutions for the residential, hospitality and contract business segments by staging exhibitions in real-world city venues.
Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer of Koelnmesse, emphasised the industry’s need for proximity and cultural context: “With idd cologne as the first ‘urban-only’ format, we’re responding to the current needs of the industry and moving even closer to the heart of the city, its creative scene and its people. At Koelnmesse, we see it as our job to tap into and develop opportunities like this shoulder to shoulder with the industry – in a spirit of partnership, with an eye to the future and a clear commitment to creating relevant platforms for our exhibitors and visitors.”
Leo Lübke, President of the VDM, highlighted the importance of this new platform: “The industry’s need for a strong platform with international appeal for exclusive interior design remains unchanged. The fact that Koelnmesse, our long-standing partner, continues to work with us to develop the concept sends an important signal to the market. This orientation creates proximity to the city, opens up future possibilities and provides the right setting for networking, dialogue and inspiration in today’s dynamic market environment.”
Selected venues anchor the urban exhibition concept
At the centre of idd cologne will be the Design Post Cologne, a year-round showroom and international design brand hub with which Koelnmesse recently formed a strategic partnership. This venue will serve as the event’s central stage and provide over 3,500 square metres for brand showcases from 35 prominent companies, fostering visibility and networking opportunities in a dynamic, inspiring environment.
Another key location is the Stoff-Pavillon Moeller, a 1952 post-war modernist architectural landmark by Wilhelm Riphahn, offering a unique, design-focused setting. Additional exhibition sites are currently being finalised to support the citywide interior design experience.
Collaboration with local design retailers enhances engagement
More than 25 partners from Cologne’s design scene—including prestigious furniture stores, creative pop-ups, showrooms and other design hotspots—will participate in idd cologne. These include Biomöbel Johannes Genske, Bretz Store, denisoberender, Eiting Räume, Goldkant, Gottfried Becker, Jan Kath, machwerkhaus köln, Markanto Depot, Qvest Shop, Smow, Stoll Wohnbedarf + Objekt and Vianden. The program will feature exclusive product launches, special promotions and panel discussions to explore new perspectives on interior design.
Urban integration sparks new synergies
idd cologne’s urban-only concept aims to bring interior design directly to where industry professionals, creatives, retailers and customers interact. The interspersion of exhibitor showcases and flagship stores will offer a holistic brand experience and transform Cologne into a hotspot for innovative interior design throughout the event duration. Further information on locations, participating brands and the accompanying program will be announced soon.
