Published: 27 November 2025
Meeting with Lidewij Edelkoort at School of Form
Author: Magdalena Miszewska
How do we design in a world defined by constant change? What does the future hold for design—and why might reconnecting with childlike sensitivity be the key to creating bold, meaningful work? These were the questions explored by Lidewij Edelkoort, a leading trend forecaster and co-creator of the School of Form curriculum, during her recent October meeting with students and faculty.
Design process as a return to childlike creativity
Lidewij Edelkoort is one of the most influential voices in contemporary design, shaping how industries understand and anticipate trends for decades. Her insights have guided business sectors ranging from fashion and beauty to interiors, technology, and automotive design. Publications from her agency, Trend Union, have become essential resources for design professionals worldwide.
Her connection with the School of Form dates back to the very beginning of design studies at SWPS University. As the school’s strategic director, she co-developed the concept and curriculum for the Design program together with Agnieszka Jacobson-Cielecka and Dawid Wiener. Her holistic approach remains an integral part of the School of Form’s identity.
Given her impact, it was no surprise that the meeting drew significant interest. During her lecture, Edelkoort spoke about curiosity, intuition, and a willingness to experiment. She discussed how cultural, social, and political shifts shape the trends—perspectives that strongly resonated with the audience.
Lidewij built her entire lecture around the idea of returning to childhood. She spoke about how the design process mirrors a child’s development. She encouraged us to think not just with our minds, but also with our senses and inner intuition—to enjoy the design process. Everyone knows the saying ‘Think outside the box,’ but she paraphrased it: ‘Think in the box, be in the box, feel the box—but not every day, sometimes be around the box.’ Her lecture was incredibly inspiring and uplifting. I saw so many smiles in the room.
Alicja Dobosz
School of Form student
What impressed me most was the depth of Lidewij’s knowledge. Every trend forecast she discussed was closely tied to larger global changes—in politics, climate, or technology. While the theme of the lecture revolved around childhood, each design example she presented was connected to deeper concepts beyond surface-level trends. She talked about textures, colors, and materials, but also about sources of inspiration. Li emphasized the importance of wood, natural materials, braided fabrics, and cardboard. She spoke about drawing inspiration from archaeology, fairy tales, and childhood itself. We received several guidelines for designing in a rapidly changing world shaped by AI and mass production. What stood out most was the idea of freedom and play. The ‘joy factor,’ as Li called it, is meant to help us create unique work that we pour our hearts and time into. Despite her awareness of global challenges, Lidewij radiates optimism and hope—that is something truly valuable to take away from her lecture.
Agata Łukasik
School of Form student
Meeting Lidewij Edelkoort was a wonderful experience. She seamlessly combined design forecasting with practical examples, making the content easy to understand and absorb. But what I appreciated most was that the lecture did not focus on a single topic—it showed the full complexity of design, from furniture and fashion to diverse materials.
Daria Landowska
School of Form student
Explore the photos from the meeting
