~ The NID x FURLENCO Masterclass explored sustainability, evolving aesthetics, and flexible furniture solutions~
14th April 2025: Furlenco, in collaboration with the National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad, and the Furniture & Interior Design (FID) Alumni Network of NID, successfully hosted the NID x FURLENCO Masterclass event from April 9-10, 2025. The event explored the evolving landscape of furniture design, with a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and the future of the industry.
The event commenced with a panel discussion titled “Emergent Trends in Furniture Design” on April 9, 2025, at the NID Auditorium. A distinguished panel of academicians and industry professionals came together to discuss new opportunities in furniture design for changing times. From sustainable materials to evolving consumer preferences, this session fostered meaningful dialogue between academia and industry, encouraging collaborative solutions for contemporary design challenges.
The panel featured eminent speakers, including Keyur Zaveri, Chief Design Officer, Furlenco; Narayanan Rajagopalan, Vice President – Design, Homelane; Nehal Bhatt, Founder, StudioWorks; Mamata Volvoikar, Visiting Faculty, NID; P Prof. Kaulav Bhagat, Faculty of Design, CEPT, Ahmedabad; and Neha Mandlik, FID Faculty, NID, Ahmedabad. Their expertise offered a deeper understanding of the dynamic evolution of furniture design.
A special highlight of the event was the felicitation of L.C. Ujawane by the FID Alumni and Prof. Vijai Singh Katiyar in recognition of his invaluable contributions to the field of furniture and interior design. This gesture underscored the importance of honouring pioneers who have played a crucial role in shaping the design industry.
Alongside the discussion, the Live Better Now exhibition, curated by Furlenco, was held at the Design Gallery of NID Ahmedabad from April 9-10, 2025. Open to the public from 10 AM to 7 PM, the exhibition highlighted circular and sustainable furniture solutions that align with modern living requirements. By showcasing adaptable and responsible design strategies, the exhibition provided visitors with an immersive experience of user-centric and innovative furniture solutions.
Speaking about the event, Keyur Zaveri, Chief Design Officer, Furlenco, said, “NID was where my design journey began, and I am thrilled to return with Furlenco’s Designers and alumni to explore the future of furniture designs at the Furlenco x NID masterclass event. At Furlenco, we believe in creating furniture that is not only aesthetically appealing but also sustainable and functional for modern living. As we foray into the Ahmedabad market, we are eager to bring our design-driven, flexible furniture solutions to the city.”
Rama Krishna Rao, Principal Faculty FID,said,“Design is no longer confined to ownership; it is evolving towards experience, sustainability, and accessibility. Through this collaboration with NID and our FID alumni, we aim to showcase how rental models and circular design thinking can redefine the future of furniture. This partnership bridges industry expertise with academic creativity, inspiring the next generation to design not just for utility, but for a better, shared tomorrow.”
The event marked an important milestone as Furlenco officially entered the Ahmedabad market, bringing its design-driven and flexible furniture solutions to the city. With a commitment to redefining how people experience furniture, Furlenco introduced its innovative, subscription-based offerings to Ahmedabad’s residents.
The NID x FURLENCO Masterclass provided a one-of-a-kind opportunity for design students, faculty, and industry professionals in Ahmedabad to engage in insightful discussions, exchange knowledge, and explore potential collaborations that will define the next era of furniture design.