BKLYN Designs, the annual design show returns this weekend to the Dumbo Historic District. The three day event showcases emerging furniture and home decor artisan and designers. This year’s event is its sixth year and is the largest one, showcasing 70 designers in four locations in Dumbo. The past years featured designers who have launched their careers at BKLYN Designs. The founder of the event, Karen Auster, has supported local designers and continues the tradition. DumboNYC caught up with Karen:

DumboNYC: How is this event different than the past years?
Karen Auster: Each year, we are pleased to jury in a whole new group of young, fresh designers to the show. For many of them, BKLYN DESIGNS is their first tradeshow ever – which means our audience are among the first to find these fabulous “locally grown” design trendsetters. These new exhibitors join a loyal group of talented veterans that bring new products to the show each and every year.

We also work hand in hand with our media and design partners to create programming that is timely and inspiring from “green” tours to hands-on design tips to family focused events so there is something for everyone!

DumboNYC: How has the event changed over the years? Is the focus still on local (Brooklyn) designers?
Karen Auster: The event, which is presented by the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, continues to grow with expanded programming, partner events and the largest number of exhibitors (70) and venues (4) ever. This reflects the growing creative economy in Brooklyn – so of course, the focus remains firmly on Brooklyn-based designers and manufacturers.

DumboNYC: Thanks Karen!

This year will also bring a lineup of 13 panels and presentations by the industry’s innovative designers and the Design Accessories Market in the Tobacco Warehouse. If you’re interested in furniture design or innovative furnishings, this is the show to meet and talk with new Brooklyn designers. (Yes, they’re definitely interested in talking to the attendees).

2008 SHOW HOURS
Friday, May 9: 10am–8pm
Saturday, May 10: 10am–7pm
Sunday, May 11: 11am–6pm

4 DUMBO, Brooklyn Locations
BKLYN DESIGNS 2008 will take place in the following venues: (**Indicates Box Office Location)
**Dumbo Arts Center, 30 Washington Street
Smack Mellon, 92 Plymouth Street
**St. Ann’s Warehouse, 38 Water Street
BD+ The Design Accessories Market will be held in the Tobacco Warehouse in Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park in partnership with NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, 26 New Dock Street
bklyndesigns.com

Previously:
{BKLYN DESIGNS 2007 to Celebrate Art, Design, & Architecture in Dumbo, 07May2007}
{BKLYN Designs 2007 Recap in Dumbo, 14May2007}