The annual Atlanta Design Festival is an open platform, ideal for fostering international dialogue on the economic and social impact of design. It provides connection, the free exchange of knowledge, design thinking and community building. Each year the Festival brings together independent designers, established brands, young talent, international speakers from academia, NGOs and government entities, exhibitions, installations and architecture tours – all centered on the economic and societal impact of design. We define this activity as ‘the design economy’ – the direct and indirect value created by those who use design in a wide variety of industries.

Montalba Architects is an award-winning practice based in Los Angeles, CA and Lausanne, Switzerland producing a diverse collection of projects ranging in scale from residential homes to commercial office interiors, retail stores and master planning. By embracing a humanistic approach that considers a client's needs and site requirements along with the cultural and economic environment, solutions are realized that are contextually conceptual and visionary in their intent, effect and appeal. Our projects emphasize experiences by creating environments that are both socially responsive and aesthetically progressive. The forces of volumetric landscapes, material integrity and natural light are combined with pure spatial volumes to create solutions to pragmatic requirements of the client, constructability and context.

We believe our work can enrich the urban experience, improve the quality of city life, and be a driver to economic development by applying meticulous attention to detail, and combining spaces, forms, and materials with a commitment to the continued viability of the communities in which we live. We are experienced at tackling a variety of challenges with innovative yet simple design solutions that have the power to transform ordinary projects into remarkable ones. Over the last 20 years, Eugene Colberg has designed imaginative and environmentally sensitive residential projects, directed projects at recognized New York institutions, and helped master plan higher education campuses nationwide. His retail projects have successfully dovetailed architectural design and brand identity and expression. He has a BArch from Cornell University, is a Registered Architect in the State of New York, a LEED Green Associate, and is NCARB certified.

At the 1932 Melbourne Cup, Bill O’Brien, a radio salesman, and Harry Norville, an engineer, placed a bet on 4-1 pony ‘Peter Pan’, and won. Despite tough economic times, the two decided to invest their winnings into something they’d long dreamt of and started “Breville Radio”. The word ‘Breville’ is a derivate of the founder’s names; O’Brien and Norville. But by the late 50’s, television had all but replaced the radio, and as such Breville’s focus turned to small appliances.

SMEG was founded in 1948 by Vittorio Bertazzoni, Sr. from Guastalla, a town near the city of Reggio Emilia in Northern Italy, and is today one of the country's leading home appliance manufacturers. Initally focusing on the enameling of metals, SMEG anticipated the so-called "Italian Economic Miracle" of the 1950s and 1960s, and the desire for home comforts that increased affluence would bring, beginning to specialize in home appliance manufacturing just a few years after its founding. Today, SMEG is run by the third generation of Bertazzoni entrepreneurs, but it still keeps the memory of its beginnings alive in its Italian name: "Smalterie Metallurgiche Emiliane Guastalla," or the "Guastalla Emilia Enamel Works."

Economic housing design

Ullmayer Sylvester Architects is a young practice founded in 2005 following the participation in a collaborative housing project 'In- Between' in London, which -amongst others- won an RIBA award and the AJ first Building Award. As a practice they engage in urban, civic and domestic context attempting to make high quality, beautiful, yet economic, projects and environments.

We're a private consulting firm that does economic development while focused on environmentally sustainable design.

Caddis Collaborative is an architecture, urban design, and planning firm based in Boulder, CO, and working throughout the United States and the world. We are leaders in sustainable design, zero net energy buildings, and livable communities. Our work aspires to environmental, economic, and social sustainability.

Raven + Lily is a socially responsible brand dedicated to empowering women through design partnerships and sustainable economic opportunities.

Luis F. Aleman Jr. is a highly respected global strategic consultant with deep expertise in international business development, economic strategy, and government advisory services. His extensive background in international relations, monetary policy, and trade facilitation has made him a key figure in driving economic growth, enhancing global partnerships, and fostering international cooperation. Leading LFA Consulting Inc. as CEO, Aleman Jr. directs a top-tier global consultancy that delivers outstanding advisory and support services to startups, middle-market companies, and foreign governments. His firm is committed to creating international partnerships, advancing economic development, and tailoring strategic business solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients. He has established strong ties with governments and key stakeholders across the U.S., U.K., European Union, Middle East, and African Union, driving strategic initiatives that promote economic cooperation and enhance trade relations. He specializes in economic development, trade policy, and strategic consulting. He has worked collaboratively with the governments of Guyana, Oman, Peru, Georgia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ghana, implementing significant economic and trade initiatives. His capability to navigate complex international markets and regulatory frameworks has earned him recognition as a trusted advisor in high-stakes negotiations and cross-border trade agreements. In addition to his executive role at LFA Consulting, Aleman Jr. is Managing Director at Ethiopian Wild Coffee (EWC), a specialty import/export business focused on distributing wild-grown and USDA-certified organic commodities to international markets. Under the umbrella of its parent company, East Atlantic International, EWC has expanded its operations internationally, including in Peru, offering a diverse range of products such as turmeric, ginger, vanilla, and tea. His significant contributions to global economic initiatives include: Spearheading the deployment of essential COVID-19 testing solutions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, assisting the government in safely managing travel and reopening key sectors. Facilitating energy cooperation agreements with Latvia and Romania to bolster their energy sectors. Orchestrating a $1.8 billion Memorandum of Understanding for the Great Inga Dam project in the Democratic Republic of Congo with General Electric to enhance energy production and infrastructure development. Negotiating a bilateral trade agreement between Ghana and the United States Department of Agriculture, enabling Ghana to introduce U.S. cattle into its market and expand agricultural trade opportunities. At LFA Consulting, Aleman Jr. focuses on strategic partnerships, security collaboration, infrastructure development, and economic revitalization. His initiatives include improving border security and migration management in North Africa, advising on critical energy and infrastructure projects, developing innovative public-private partnership (PPP) models, and championing economic reforms that promote trade liberalization and improve business climates. Under the leadership of Luis F. Aleman Jr., LFA Consulting continues to lead impactful projects that support economic growth and enhance global business development. These projects significantly impact the lives and businesses of people around the world. His strategic vision and dedicated leadership ensure he remains vital in the international economic landscape.

La Firme is a multidisciplinary team of designers, graphic artists, art directors and contractors. We are creative, curious and rigorous young people. We carry out made-to-measure residential and corporate projects, customized furniture and fully integrated branding solutions. Whether a duplex or a country house, a lamp or a sofa, a signage or a complete visual identity, our creative achievements combine accuracy, technical refinement and aesthetics. We offer a turnkey service and take care of every phase of a project, regardless of its size. From the selection of suppliers and materials, all our recommendations are based on humane, ecological and economic criteria.

Jacqueline Hassink (born 15 July 1966) is a Dutch visual artist. She lives and works in New York City. Hassink is well known for her global art projects that deal with the world of economic power. Her work represents visual, graphic, and sociological maps of the axes of global economic structures. Her first art project, The Table of Power (1993–95), was followed by projects such as: Female Power Stations: Queen Bees (1996–2000), Car Girls (2002–08), Haute Couture Fitting Rooms, Paris (2003–12), and The Table of Power 2 (2009-11).

jones | haydu is a San Francisco based studio established in 2004 by principals Hulett Jones and Paul Haydu. We are a young and thoughtful firm with a demonstrated interest in innovative solutions, attention to craft and detail, and a desire to enrich each project with a distinct narrative. Combining over thirty years of experience in architecture, design, and interiors, we have worked on commercial, institutional, hospitality, and residential projects in several states. We are a growing studio that strikes a balance between large firm experience and small firm intimacy. Our philosophy is centered on a specificity in each design problem and solution. We foster ideas and concepts informed by the unique nature of the client, the site, and the program. In so doing, we strive to unify aesthetic invention, functional sensibility, social and environmental responsibility, and economic reality. Rather than imposing a unified style upon user and circumstance, we seek inspiration from them. At the core of this philosophy is the goal to have architecture enhance one's experience. We are driven by the idea that architecture comprises and emerges from numerous forces and stimuli, some apparent, others hidden. With a focus on communication and exploration, we understand that dialogue is essential and allows both a clearer understanding of the clients and their concerns as well as the emergence of less apparent, though deeply resonant desires. During these discussions, a layered design melding the essential functional needs with more emotive and sensory gestures takes shape. Ideally, each design goes beyond the pragmatic requirements and aesthetic desires and allows for rich connection, discovery, and wonder.

motte is a Lisbon based practice formed by a group of architects, engineers and builders. The aim is to develop, through the design, research and debate, projects that are adapted to the contemporary life and to the new ways of living. The office has an experienced team committed to design buildings that consider the environmental, social and economic themes of sustainability.

As the world's leading chemical company, BASF combines economic success with environmental protection and social responsibility. BASF Corporation is the largest affiliate of BASF SE and the second largest producer and marketer of chemicals and related products in North America.

LGA Architectural Partners is a skilled team of architects and building scientists, based out of Toronto and Edmonton, who create sustainable, contextually-sensitive and socially-minded architecture.Since 1989, the firm has been designing spaces that reflect the highest ideals and aspirations of its clients, while contributing to the healthy growth and vibrancy of the communities it serves. LGA aspires to make open architecture—one that can catalyze cultural and economic progress through the creation of inviting public spaces that encourage interaction.LGA's research-based process involves engaging many perspectives, each enhancing the breadth and quality of our work. It tells the unique story of a place and its people, through the careful shaping of space, and the resourceful detailing of materials.Design is an essential tool for improving people's lives, and LGA believes that all architecture should be intrinsically sustainable, beautiful, and built to adapt to the needs of future generations.

Bild Design is an assembly of independent architects, designers and fabricators—each with their own portfolio of experience and talent—that come together to collaborate on built form. Bild projects are a combination of ideas and explorations that focus on ground: how form receives and reacts to its context and surrounds; space: ways to configure and construct layered spatial experiences; and assembly: means and methods for joining various parts. Recent Bild work includes a variety of new construction and renovation, residential and commercial projects that often investigate an approach towards regional remediation. This work represents Pre-Hurricane Katrina concerns related to domestic vertical growth, the relationship of the occupant to the ground, and post-storm responses to extended contextual relationships with the water. To varying degree, each project is influenced by and aims to address the needs of a culture struggling with issues of decay, economic shortage, and preservation within a framework of the issues of salvage, integration and progress.

Kevin Hayes Architects has been established in Brisbane for over 20 years. Our practice specialises in providing innovative architectural solutions to the problems of working and living in urban environments, with the bulk of work over the past 10 years being in Brisbane 's inner city. We believe that the main challenge facing architects today is to think beyond standard solutions and embrace the challenges of bringing together economic, legislative, environmental, cultural and community demands and expectations. Our designs not only respond to the needs and desires of our clients, but are sensitive to the environmental and cultural regions into which they are integrated. Through our appreciation of the complexities of modern cities, we bring to life buildings which encompass our clients' dreams and aspirations.

We find trading as a convenient passive income generator without needing to spend a paramount time in office work and a nosy boss. Passive income does not depend on centralised entities. It is an income generator that provides great economic growth for individuals globally to achieve financial freedom.

Gracia Studio is based on the technical aspects of building systems that lead to worth living architecture for the users. Architectural solutions that are highly efficient and esthetic, by incorporating and experimenting with the wide variety of materials and structural systems possible. Due to the need of economic building our challenge comes always from the construction process for each of our projects; we seek the realization of them with everyday items, used in unusual manners to give added value only accredited by wit. Each project is handled in a unique matter and studied thoroughly during the design process, and followed through to the building stage, to ensure that detail and neatness is kept at a simple stage. An example of our design process is based on research materials produced in the project area as well as artisans or workers who perform certain types of work, thus we support the local industry, create jobs in the same study area and lower costs of materials and labor.

Skinners Funerals and Murphy Funerals are firms that Michael Hutchinson Funeral Director has purchased from original owners over the years and incorporated into the parent firm. They serve a particular need or geographical locality to serve the community. Despite the different names, the commitment to uncomplicated and economic funerals prevails throughout.

SPARC DESIGN is a professional consultancy firm committed to good design and its practice in the field of Architecture, Interiors, Landscape Design, Master Planning and Turnkey Solutions. We see design as a means of heightening the human level of consciousness and spatial experience. We aim at providing a synergistic response to aesthetics, experience, economic viability, and quality of design. We work together and blend our design with the requirements of the Client to achieve seamless integration of all the designed elements. [https://sparcdesign.co.in/]

Matthew G. Lockwood was the director of communications and product management for the Economic Innovation Group, a public policy group formed by Sean Parker that pushed for the introduction of Opportunity Zones to alleviate spatial inequality. Chief of Staff for Google Maps, special assistant to the president of Caltech, and speechwriter for Mayor Mike Bloomberg are among his previous positions.

Jean-Claude Bastos de Morais is an entrepreneur and innovation influencer with a deep interest in African socio-economic development. In 2003, I founded Quantum Global Group, an international group of companies focused on African development, particularly in the fields of corporate finance advisory, asset and private wealth management, real estate and investment consulting.

Established in 1999, Kennerly Architecture & Planning is a San Francisco based design firm practicing architecture, interior design, and master-planning in urban and rural environments. Our projects include single family homes, multi-family infill developments, and complex mixed-use and commercial buildings. Our design combines exuberance and rigor, modernism and urbanism. With each project, whether urban or rural, we consider the larger framework in which the building fits—the living context. That includes nearby structures as well as ecological, social, political, economic, and regulatory layers. Our clients appreciate that our designs not only have flair, but also arise from a deep understanding of the finer points of building codes. We see all spaces in the urban environment as linked to each other, ripe for activation and capable of serving a variety of purposes. We believe in tying together big-picture thinking with small-scale finesse.

Frank Tate is an acclaimed economic developer with an acute ability to assess and identify the needs of a business, organization or community quickly, and with resounding accuracy. His acumen in business strategy growth has led him to placing, recruiting and retaining over $1 Billion in total capital investment within 8 years, Tate is decidedly a subject matter expert.

Emerging from the lively streets of Tempe, AZ, Holtzman Home Improvement distinguishes itself as a leader in the home renovation sector. Their acclaimed approach to customizing living spaces has set a new benchmark for excellence, delivering projects finely tuned to their clients' distinctive preferences and economic considerations, making them a beacon of innovation in the home enhancement landscape.

Safwan Sobhan, Vice Chairman of Bashundhara Group, has been a transformative leader in Bangladesh’s largest conglomerate. Over 15 years, his leadership has propelled the group’s expansion into over 25 sectors, including manufacturing, maritime, and industry. By prioritizing sustainability, he has seamlessly blended profitability with environmental and social responsibility, fostering significant economic growth and job creation. Safwan’s educational background has been integral to his strategic vision. He attended Shiplake College in the UK and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration focusing on International Business from American Intercontinental University. This global perspective has enabled him to steer Bashundhara Group into diverse markets, such as cement, steel, toiletries, and media, strengthening its position as an industry leader. A strong advocate for corporate social responsibility, Safwan has led numerous initiatives to improve health and education in Bangladesh. During the 2020 pandemic, he directed efforts to provide affordable healthcare, support medical education, and make essential services accessible to underserved communities. These initiatives reflect his commitment to creating positive societal change alongside business growth. Operationally, Safwan is recognized for his focus on efficiency and innovation. Under his guidance, Bashundhara Group has completed transformative projects such as the Bashundhara Sports Complex, a significant addition to the country’s sports and recreational infrastructure. He also led the development of a state-of-the-art steel manufacturing plant within the Bashundhara Industrial Economic Zone, boosting the group’s industrial footprint and contributing to Bangladesh’s economic advancement. Safwan’s contributions have earned him widespread recognition. He has received prestigious accolades, including the Global Leader of the Year award and the Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) of Bangladesh honor. Additionally, he was named the highest taxpayer in the young category, reflecting his substantial contributions to national financial growth and industrial development. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Safwan Sobhan is a dedicated family man who values time with his loved ones. His leadership embodies strategic foresight, ethical business practices, and a deep commitment to societal improvement. Sobhan inspires progress, driving Bashundhara Group’s success while contributing to Bangladesh's socio-economic advancement and leaving a lasting legacy across industries and communities.

The Atlanta BeltLine is the most comprehensive transportation and economic development effort ever undertaken in the City of Atlanta and among the largest, most wide-ranging urban redevelopment programs currently underway in the United States. The Atlanta BeltLine is a sustainable redevelopment project that will provide a network of public parks, multi-use trails and transit along a historic 22-mile railroad corridor circling downtown and connecting many neighborhoods directly to each other. The Atlanta BeltLine is transforming the city with a combination of rail, trail, greenspace, housing and art. It will ultimately connect 45 intown neighborhoods, provide first and last mile connectivity for regional transportation initiatives, and put Atlanta on a path to 21st century economic growth and sustainability. The beauty of the Atlanta BeltLine is that it offers not only modern conveyances and exciting new development, but it is a living, breathing part of our community; not simply a means of getting somewhere, but a destination unto itself. It offers a chance for Atlanta to redefine what it is to be a neighbor, to be a community, to be a region, and to share all that it has to offer.

Scholar of the history and theories of contemporary Japanese architecture and urbanism with a long list of publications, lectures, and other activities on his record; currently working on two books and several chapters to books, including: The “Bubble” and Beyond: Japanese Architecture in the Age of Economic and Social Upheavals. London: Phaidon Press (estimated publication: 05/2007); and Modern Architectures in History: JAPAN. London: Reaktion Books Ltd. (estimated publication: 11/2008)

Since its foundation in 2009, our Indian branch based in Ahmedabad has been pursuing a holistic approach: We look beyond the end of our nose, consider the entire development process instead of just the architectural concept, and develop holistic strategies - from the initial concept to realization. In this way, we find the best solution for each client - tailored to their specific needs. We plan and realize commercial buildings, shopping malls, mixed-use projects, educational institutions as well as private residences up to hotels and vacation resorts. We are always committed to ecological, economic and socio-cultural sustainability. From the outset, we integrate energy efficiency measures and principles of ecologically compatible construction into our planning and respond to local conditions on site.

A long time journalist and filmmaker, I've been rather obsessed with Tiny Homes for the past 5 years or more. I have taken design and drafting courses and worked as a project manager for the largest builder on California's Central Coast where we incorporated "casitas" into our developments. I am an advocate for increasing access to Tiny Homes through legislation, tax incentives and re-tooling building codes as a means of correcting economic disparity and environmental waste.

James Hurysz became more concerned about the degradation of local quality of life as a consequence of increased urbanization. As a consequence of this support, Jim decided to support candidates running for local, state, and national office because they, too, were concerned about issues of quality of life. Jim continued to provide quality assurance (QA) services to industrial enterprises after his death, pushing for long-term social, economic, and environmental stability over short-term expansionism.

WealthAbility, headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, is a trailblazer in tax-free wealth education. It is committed to empowering individuals, entrepreneurs, and investors with dynamic strategies to mitigate tax liabilities and expand wealth. Founded by the astute Tom Wheelwright, a certified public accountant with a prolific background in tax strategy and wealth management, WealthAbility has changed the financial trajectories of over 518,000 business owners by implementing strategic tax planning to optimize their financial health. Tom Wheelwright's notable career milestones include his role as CEO of WealthAbility Accounting Network from 2018 to 2023, the establishment of WealthAbility's educational resources in 2006, and the launch of TFW Advisors Tax Advisory Franchise in November 2023. Additionally, his continuous involvement as a key advisor in Robert Kiyosaki's Rich Dad advisory group since 2012 has contributed significantly to his reputation as a leader in financial strategy. His innovative thinking and leadership have positioned WealthAbility as an essential resource for economic education. WealthAbility offers a comprehensive suite of educational tools that help clients maximize their financial potential and minimize tax burdens. This includes Wheelwright's influential books, "Tax-Free Wealth" and "The Win-Win Wealth Strategy," which delve into sophisticated strategies for wealth accumulation and tax reduction. Furthermore, the WealthAbility Show, a podcast hosted by Wheelwright, offers actionable advice on achieving financial independence through tax efficiency. The organization also provides the Wealth Evaluator, a free online tool for economic assessment and strategic planning, alongside WealthAbility Live, a subscription service delivering monthly insights from financial experts on tax-saving strategies and wealth-building. Additionally, TFW Advisors, an affiliate of WealthAbility, offers specialized services in tax planning and wealth strategy. These services guide clients through complex financial management challenges, focusing on achieving optimal tax efficiency. TFW Advisors also develops personalized wealth management plans that promote a team-based investment approach, ensuring clients' financial decisions are both strategic and tax-efficient. TFW Advisors also excels in asset protection and legacy planning. They provide expert advice on establishing robust legal structures to safeguard assets and facilitate efficient wealth transfers to future generations or charitable organizations, ensuring clients' long-term financial security and effective legacy management. Through its extensive educational resources and the strategic guidance provided by TFW Advisors, WealthAbility continues to significantly impact the financial landscape. By equipping individuals and businesses with the necessary tools and knowledge for economic success, WealthAbility and TFW Advisors help more people achieve and exceed their economic aspirations, reinforcing their status as transformative leaders in financial education and wealth management.