Design Society

Overview

Design Society is a design-focused cultural centre in Shekou's Sea World district, housed in a striking building designed by Fumihiko Maki. It features a permanent V&A Gallery — the first overseas collaboration for London's Victoria and Albert Museum — alongside rotating design exhibitions and a theatre.

Highlights

• V&A Gallery: A permanent exhibition exploring the value of design through objects spanning centuries and cultures.
• Main Gallery: Large-scale rotating exhibitions on architecture, product design, fashion, and digital media.
• Design Store: A carefully curated shop featuring products by Chinese and international designers.

History

Design Society opened in December 2017 as a collaboration between China Merchants Shekou and the V&A. The partnership was the culmination of three years of research and planning, reflecting both institutions' interest in connecting Chinese and international design communities.

Visitor Tips

• V&A Gallery is Free: Only the main gallery exhibitions charge admission.
• Café: The ground-floor café has excellent coffee and views of the Sea World plaza.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.