What's Happening?
Dècor Tours has unveiled its 2027 schedule of design-focused travel experiences, offering nine curated trips across Europe and the United States. These small-group tours are designed for designers and design enthusiasts, providing opportunities to explore
international design events, discover new resources, and connect with artisans, makers, and brands. The schedule includes visits to major design events such as Paris Dèco Off, London Craft Week, Lisbon Design Week, and Copenhagen’s 3daysofdesign. Additionally, the lineup features trips exploring the craftsmanship and culture of Provence, a U.S. Makers Getaway including the Brimfield Market, and a New York City Autumn Design Master Class. Founded by industry experts Susan Schultz and Deb Barrett, Dècor Tours aims to combine event visits with behind-the-scenes experiences, workshops, and insights into the culture and history behind design products. The company emphasizes keeping group sizes small to foster intimate and engaging experiences.
Why It's Important?
This announcement is significant for U.S. design professionals and enthusiasts, offering unique opportunities for professional development and cultural immersion. By providing access to international design events and artisan communities, Dècor Tours facilitates networking, inspiration, and the discovery of new trends and resources that can influence the U.S. design market. The inclusion of a U.S. Makers Getaway also highlights and supports American craftsmanship, potentially boosting local design industries. For interior designers, architects, and retailers, these tours can lead to new product sourcing, innovative design ideas, and a deeper understanding of global design aesthetics, ultimately enriching the American design landscape. The curated experiences also cater to a growing interest in authentic, handcrafted, and culturally rich design elements, which can impact consumer preferences and market demands in the U.S.
What's Next?
Reservations for the 2027 Dècor Tours are already filling up, with some trips, like the Paris Dèco Off experience, already sold out and waitlists forming for 2028. Interested individuals are encouraged to visit decortours.com for the complete schedule and booking information. The continued demand for these specialized tours suggests a sustained interest in global design education and experiences among the U.S. design community. As these tours proceed, they are likely to foster new collaborations, introduce international design concepts to the U.S. market, and further establish Dècor Tours as a key player in design-focused travel. The success of these trips could also inspire similar initiatives, expanding the accessibility of international design insights for American professionals.
Beyond the Headlines
The trend of specialized design tours, as exemplified by Dècor Tours, reflects a broader shift in how professionals and enthusiasts engage with their fields. Beyond mere attendance at trade shows, there's a growing desire for immersive, educational experiences that offer deeper cultural context and direct interaction with creators. This approach not only enhances professional knowledge but also fosters a more holistic appreciation for design, moving beyond commercial aspects to embrace craftsmanship, heritage, and sustainability. For the U.S., this could mean a more informed and globally aware design community, potentially leading to more diverse and innovative design solutions that incorporate international influences and ethical production practices. It also underscores the value of experiential learning in a world increasingly dominated by digital interactions.
