Talks

Nike: Form Follows Motion 
OPENING | 20 September 2024  
6 pm Talk (EN), Fire Station 
7 pm Vernissage, Vitra Design Museum  
9 pm Opening Party, Fire Station  

On 20 September 2024, the Vitra Design Museum proudly presents »Nike: Form Follows Motion«, one of the year's most fascinating design exhibitions. The evening kicks off with an engaging talk exploring the intersection of design and athletics, featuring Martin Lotti, the visionary Chief Design Officer at Nike. The Swiss-born designer, responsible for shaping the brand's iconic style and vision, will guide you through the past, present, and future of Nike's innovations. Glenn Adamson, the exhibition's curator and Curator-at-Large of the Vitra Design Museum, will moderate the discussion. Following the talk, join us for the exclusive vernissage, where you'll be among the first to explore the exhibition, including never-before-seen Nike prototypes. Raise a glass with us against the stunning backdrop of the Vitra Design Museum.  

At 9 pm, the fire station will transform into a vibrant party space. Celebrate the convergence of sport, design and culture with a DJ set that embodies the dynamic spirit of Nike. Enjoy drinks and music in this unique setting for an unforgettable night.  

Admission is free, but space is limited. Secure your spot by 15 September 2024 at events@design-museum.de 

Sneaker Culture: Nike in Pop Culture, Fashion & Innovation (DE)
Thursday | 17 October 2024  
6:30 pm, Vitra Schaudepot  

Nike has shaped and influenced pop culture, street style and fashion like no other sports brand. Drawing inspiration from global street and subcultures, Nike has become a pioneer in sports fashion across Europe. In our talk, we’ll explore the key factors that transformed Nike's sporting goods into a culturally significant icon.  

Our three guests will offer unique perspectives on Nike's evolution into a subculture symbol. Mischa Krewer, founder of the once largest German-language sneaker magazine »Sneakerized« and managing director of the leading sneaker store 43einhalb, brings over two decades of experience in the sneaker scene. Julia Schoierer, known as the »Sneaker Queen«, will share her insights as a photographer, passionate collector and influential voice in the German sneaker community. Sergio Muster, the visionary founder of »Sneakerness«, the world's leading sneaker and lifestyle convention, will contribute his experiences and insights from the Europe-wide trainer community.  

The talk will be held in German.  

Free admission, please register at events@design-museum.de 

Sport Spaces: The Global Stadiums of Populous (EN)
Thursday | 7 November 2024  
6:30 pm, Vitra Schaudepot 

Many of the world’s most famous sports arenas were designed by male architects for male athletes and remain empty six days a week. What does contemporary stadium architecture look like when integrated into the urban landscape and daily life? In her lecture, renowned architect Maria Knutsson-Hall will explore how modern sports venues must cater to the needs of a diverse society, while considering the physical requirements of all athletes. As a lead architect at Populous, one of the world’s foremost architecture firms specialising in sports and entertainment facilities, Maria Knutsson-Hall has played a pivotal role in designing iconic buildings since 2013. In 2019, she was recognised as a »Rising Star« by the RIBA Journal, a testament to her visionary work. With her extensive experience in addressing the needs of fans, teams, staff and partners, Maria has contributed to the design of several Premier League stadiums in the UK.  
Discover in this talk how Maria Knutsson-Hall is redefining the boundaries of stadium architecture and shaping the future of our sports facilities.  

The talk will be held in English.  

Free admission; please register at events@design-museum.de

Barragán Lecture #4: Fernando Laposse (EN)
Thursday | 20 March 2025
6:30 pm, Schaudepot 

Luis Barragán (1902–1988) is regarded as the most important Mexican architect of the twentieth century. Renowned for his minimalist yet sensitive approach to space, colour and landscape, he masterfully combined the international avant-garde with local tradition. The significance of regional materials and cultural contexts characterises the work of Barragán, as well as that of Mexican designer Fernando Laposse. In his lecture, Laposse explores the uniqueness of Mexican design. Drawing on his projects, he will discuss the impact of agriculture, environmental protection, indigenous rights and crime on Mexico's social structures, and how these factors impact the language of his designs. 

Free admission, please register at events@design-museum.de