Our recent ventures have introduced us to inspiring places, ideas, and people—all offering insights into the transformative power of design. I would like to extend my gratitude to Bhaskar Bhatt, Dean, and Soumitra Bhattacharya, Cluster Head of UPES Design School, for providing the opportunity to connect with the next generation of designers during my keynote. Before this, a detour to Tehri led us to the lake near the Tehri dam—a tranquil and scenic spot that reflects the region’s unique potential. Imagine people-centered studios here, thoughtfully designed to harness local talent and provide sustainable design solutions. Such studios would empower young professionals to thrive in their careers without relocating to urban centers, supporting a work-life rooted in clean, inspiring environments while also attracting those drawn to unspoiled landscapes.

At Lopez Forum 34, co-hosted with BITS School of Design at the India Habitat Centre, we explored how design is central to nation-building. Don Norman and Amitabh Kant made it clear: design isn’t just aesthetic but a powerful tool for societal progress. Norman’s call for humanity-centred solutions and Kant’s advocacy for sustainable, people-focused urbanisation aligns with our mission to leverage design in addressing today’s myriad and pressing challenges. The Forum’s discussions sparked vibrant engagement on social platforms, underscoring the growing momentum around design’s role in public policy and societal impact. Read our extensive summary of the event here: 8-min read.

Meanwhile, recent developments at my alma mater, NID Ahmedabad, have raised significant concerns about the future of design education in India. The recent appointment of a new director amid questions of transparency and sudden faculty changes has led to widespread student protests. NID’s founding mission has always been to encourage creativity while preserving institutional autonomy. Now, more than ever, the design community and stakeholders must rally with the director to protect these values.

My encounters with NID’s product design students during my recent visit to Ahmedabad provided a hopeful perspective on design’s future. Their insightful questions on the relevance and evolving role of design reflect a readiness to lead and shape the field’s future. I am excited to see the impact these young designers will have in the years to come.

In my column In A 100 Words, I share thoughts on agency in design and emphasize its role in addressing complex systemic challenges.

I would also like to thank Sujatha Shankar Kumar, our former editor, for her invaluable contributions. Her editorial vision has shaped many of our past newsletters, and she will be greatly missed.

Thank you for joining us on this journey—together, let’s continue pushing boundaries and designing for a better tomorrow.

Anthony Lopez,
Founder and Chief Creative Director,
LOPEZ