HOW Design Live Cancels Live Event in Atlanta, Announces Immersive Virtual Experience 

When we think about what’s made HOW Design Live such an incredible experience over the past 29 years, there are so many factors that go into it – but key among these is the people. Every year at HOW, our community comes together to connect with old friends and welcome those who are new. We’re an inclusive family that comes together and shares our ideas, our inspirations. This makes it even more disappointing that we do not have the opportunity to gather with you all face-to-face in Atlanta.

Maintaining the health and safety of every member of the HOW community, as well as that of the HOW Design Live team, is of the utmost importance to us. Amid the challenging circumstances arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, and after having extensive discussions with our community, we’ve made the decision to cancel the live portion of HOW Design Live, scheduled for October 26-29, 2020 in Atlanta.

The cancellation of the live event is due to the ongoing progression of the COVID-19 pandemic, including the latest government data, measures, and guidelines on the phased reopening plans in the U.S.; current restrictions on congregating and large gatherings imposed by states and other government and public health authorities; and the various company-imposed travel restrictions on employees affecting attendees and participating companies.

Though we won’t get to see you in person this year, our team is committed to keeping the community connected by creating new ways to facilitate learning and networking. To serve this current need, HOW Design Live is proud to announce a virtual conference experience taking place November 10-12, 2020. This 3-day virtual experience will feature an engaging mix of live-streamed education, creative community connection opportunities, live chats, fun social sessions, and a range of business solutions that will help take your design work to the next level. We will be in touch with additional information very soon.

Who knew when we chose our 2020 theme, “A New Paradigm,” how fitting it would be for this year? Now more than ever, designers have the opportunity to envision, design, and imagine a better world. Massive shifts are underway, but HOW do we thrive in a world disrupted by change? These words have never been truer, and we as the HOW community need to come together, share our energy and passion and adapt in order to thrive in this new paradigm.

We appreciate your ongoing loyalty to HOW Design Live as we navigate through the unknown. While we are disappointed we won’t celebrate 30 years of HOW Design Live in person in Atlanta this year, we are excited about the opportunity for us all to connect virtually this fall!

Stay safe. Stay healthy. Stay positive.

-Amy Conover
HOW Design Live Show Director