What does design look like when you design for people, coordinate international teams, and build projects that need to function in a constantly changing world? We will discuss this during the two days of ARDI Talks, on the BIFE-SIM 2026 stage.
One of the voices that will bring this perspective to Bucharest is the international speaker Aurélie Hsiao Xiao Zhihua, architect and AEC industry leader, mentor for women in STEM fields, and member of European Women on Boards. At ARDI Talks, the program which, for the first time, extends to two days of conferences dedicated to architects and interior designers, will bring into discussion her perspective on inclusive leadership, representation, and the power of feeling like you do not belong to a place.
Her presence is part of a program built around questions that go beyond the realm of trends and aesthetics: how do you build a solid practice, how do you grow a design business, how do you navigate difficult periods and changing markets, and how can the collaboration between designers and industry become more relevant for both parties?
The Romanian Association for Design and Innovation (ARDI) is continuing its partnership this year as well with BIFE-SIM, the most important event dedicated to the furniture industry, design, and interior fittings in Southeast Europe. During the 2026 edition, ARDI will organize two days of ARDI Talks conferences, bringing together on the same stage architects, interior designers, industry representatives, leaders of profile companies, and international guests.
A theme about women changing the industry. And about the industry changing
The theme of this year’s edition, „Women in Architecture and Design”, brings to the forefront women who design, run offices, develop products, manage brands, and influence the industry.
The theme functions, however, as a common thread throughout the two days, rather than a limitation of the conversation. ARDI aims to highlight different experiences and perspectives and to capture how the industry has changed in recent years. Therefore, women who currently hold prominent roles in architecture, design, and business, as well as men who contribute to the industry and can offer a perspective on the transformations it has undergone, will take the stage.
The result is a program about people, practice, leadership and business, with design as a common point.
Over the course of the two days, the public will enjoy keynotes, panels, masterclasses, project presentations and networking sessions, built around topics such as leadership, professional practice, the relationship between design and industry, business development, and the future of the profession.
„For the first time, ARDI is bringing two days of conferences dedicated to architects and interior designers to BIFE-SIM 2026. The goal is simple: to bring designers and manufacturers closer together. We have invited international speakers who will bring an external perspective on Romanian design and products—yet another reason to drop by the booths and the stage. We are discussing what truly concerns the community: entrepreneurship, how to navigate difficult markets and periods, collaboration, and profitability in design.” Sebastian Mîndroiu, President of ARDI
For ARDI, what is at stake over the two days is precisely this bridging of the gap between the creative community and the industry. ARDI Talks creates a space where professional experiences, challenges, and ideas can become the starting point for conversations, collaborations, and new projects.
Just like last year, the conversation starts on stage and continues in the exhibition space. Designers and architects will have the opportunity to meet manufacturers, discover materials and products, and see, directly within the context of BIFE-SIM, how an idea can be transformed into a concrete project.
BIFE-SIM, organized by Romexpo in partnership with the Association of Furniture Manufacturers of Romania – APMR and the Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Romania – CCIR and supported by ARDI, is the event that brings together the Communities of the Furniture Industry, Architecture, and Design, in September, in Bucharest.
The complete conference agenda and the list of speakers will be announced in the coming period on the official channels of ARDI, APMR, Romexpo, and BIFE-SIM.
BIFE-SIM. Meet the makers. Feel the craft. Live the design.
September 17–20 | ROMEXPO, Bucharest
Book your access on bife-sim.ro!
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