The Creative Futures Conference is back for its second year at the Atlanta Design Festival, cementing its reputation as a must-attend event for those at the intersection of design, technology, and social innovation. 

This year’s theme, “Now That You Know, What Will You Do?” challenges attendees to harness the power of human-centered design in addressing the most pressing global issues of our time.

Taking place on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at the Fourth Ward Offices, this full-day event will bring together a distinguished lineup of speakers from diverse sectors including business, academia, nonprofit, and the arts. The conference aims to provoke deep discussions, challenge established norms, and inspire the creation of inclusive cultures.

Atlanta: Southeast Hub for Design Innovation

The Creative Futures Conference is a cornerstone of the Atlanta Design Festival, drawing thought leaders who are pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve. This year’s speakers include heavyweights such as architect Morris Adjmi, FAIA, known for his unique ability to blend modernist principles with a deep respect for historical context, Iris Pan, Lead Designer at Amazon, and Monica Delores Hooks, Chief Experience Officer at The Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs. Each brings a unique perspective on how design can drive radical transformation in areas ranging from urban development to sustainable technology.

The conference will delve into critical topics that explore the future of design and its potential to create positive change. Sessions will cover everything from the role of AI and extended reality in transforming design practices to how architecture can promote justice and human dignity. Highlights include a discussion on Atlanta’s Westside development led by Tabea Fahr and Taylor Coles, and a session on sustainable innovation featuring leaders from Google Cloud and The Lola.

Morris Adjmi (Morris Adjmi Associates) and Jim Irwin (New City Properties) will also present an exclusive look at the Fourth Ward Offices and new FORTH Hotel, a landmark project that embodies the innovative spirit of the festival. The building, which houses a boutique hotel, social club, and restaurants, will be open for a special tour on Sunday, September 29, offering attendees a deeper connection to the event’s host city.

A Catalyst for Change

The Creative Futures Conference is a call to action. As Atlanta continues to rise as a cultural and design hub, this event offers a platform for participants to engage with the ideas and practices that will shape the future. Whether you’re a design professional, an academic, or someone passionate about social innovation, the conference promises to leave you with actionable insights and a renewed sense of purpose.