Every year, Montréals creative community eagerly awaits the Annuel de design at the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). And this spring, its back brighter, bolder, and bigger than ever. From May 1 to 7, 2025, UQAMs Design Pavilion transforms into a vibrant showcase for the work of nearly 200 graduating students, shining a spotlight on the future of design in Québec and beyond. This 11th edition isnt just about admiring good design its a lively meeting ground for students, professionals, and curious visitors to connect, exchange ideas, and celebrate innovation in every form.
Six Floors of Pure Creative Energy
For one full week, UQAMs Design Pavilion will feel more like an experimental art gallery than a university space. The event spans six floors packed with projects covering graphic design, environmental design, fashion, and even advanced studies in heritage architecture and immersive environments. The energy is contagious its not just an exhibit, but a conversation starter. From bold, interactive installations to elegant, socially conscious fashion collections, every corner of the building hums with fresh ideas and forward-thinking perspectives. And the best part? Entry is totally free you just need to register online.
The City Becomes a Canvas
One of the coolest additions this year is whats happening outside the walls of the Design Pavilion. Starting in the fall of 2024, UQAM turned the Pavilions façade into a permanent outdoor display space, and its about to shine during the Annuel. Throughout the event, student-created video projections will light up the building, adding a striking new layer to the experience. Meanwhile, the façade of UQAMs Président-Kennedy Pavilion will feature Enchantement: Design in Motion and Visions of the Future, a series of immersive, moving-image works produced by students in the DGX6134 course. Running from late April to the end of August, these eight-minute loops turn the citys skyline into a living, glowing gallery.
Special Events You Dont Want to Miss
The Annuel de design isnt just about admiring finished projects its also a chance to dive deeper. On May 5, a roundtable discussion brings together recent grads from UQAMs masters program in environmental design to chat about their work and the future of the field. Then, on May 10, UQAM celebrates the 50th anniversary of its School of Design with Design International, a public event featuring renowned international designers like Na Kim, Fraser Muggeridge, Julie Richoz, Sandra Kassenaar, and Tyl Vergriete. Its a rare opportunity to hear from some of the most exciting names in global design and yes, its free too.
Where Creativity, Community, and Future Visions Meet
What makes the Annuel de design so special isnt just the volume of work or the eye-catching installations its the spirit behind it. This is where Montréals next generation of designers get to show what matters to them, experiment with new ideas, and build connections that could shape their careers. If youre in town this May, dont miss it this is where creativity lives.
Event Name: UQAM Annuel de design 2025
Dates: May 17, 2025
Location: UQAM Design Pavilion, 1440 rue Sanguinet, Montréal
Admission: Free with registration
Website & Social: UQAM official channels
Nearest Metro: Berri-UQAM
Complete Timeline
| Date | Event | Location | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| April 21 August 31 | Enchantement: Design in Motion and Visions of the Future video projection | Président-Kennedy Pavilion façade | 8:00 PM Midnight |
| April 30 | Opening Vernissage | UQAM Design Pavilion | From 6:00 PM |
| May 17 | Annuel de design 2025 Exhibition | UQAM Design Pavilion | 12:00 PM 6:00 PM |
| May 5 | Roundtable: Masters Graduates in Environmental Design | UQAM Design Pavilion (DE-3550) | 4:00 PM 6:00 PM |
| May 10 | Design International (50th Anniversary Event) | UQAM Design Pavilion | From 10:00 AM |
| April 30 June 4 | Student Video Projections | UQAM Design Pavilion façade | 8:00 PM Midnight |