A major innovation is set to take place this year at Marble Izmir – International Natural Stone and Technologies Fair, organized by IZFAŞ and hosted by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality. Hall D is being redesigned under the “D-ESIGN Arena” concept, transforming it into a new focal point where interaction and sectoral engagement will intensify throughout the fair.
With D-ESIGN Arena, the aim is to highlight the aspect of design that transforms into producibility and commercial value, while creating an integrated interaction space that brings innovation together with the industry.
Commenting on the redesigned Hall D, IZFAŞ General Manager Tuğçe Cumalıoğlu stated:
“The growing trade volume and high occupancy rate of Marble Izmir made it necessary to take a stronger step in our fair concept. With D-ESIGN Arena, we are creating a dynamic meeting space where design and art become more visible, sectoral knowledge and experiences are shared, and international business interactions are intensified. We do not see our fairs merely as commercial platforms where products are exhibited; we see them as communication environments where the sector comes together, interaction is strengthened, and new collaborations emerge. Designed with this perspective, D-ESIGN Arena will host a wide range of activities—from the natural stone design competition and talk programs to the Sculpture Workshop exhibition and international B2B meetings. We believe this new concept will enrich the fair experience while further strengthening sectoral interaction and business connections.”
8th International Natural Stone Design Competition
One of the key components of D-ESIGN Arena will be the 8th International Natural Stone Design Competition, organized as part of Marble Izmir. The competition aims to encourage the transformation of marble and natural stone into high value-added and innovative products, enhance the sector’s international competitiveness, and guide young designers toward production-oriented thinking.
With participation from 67 universities across 8 countries, a total of 724 projects were submitted. The competition features a wide range of designs, from decorative objects to unique furniture pieces, and from functional home and office products to items such as sinks and bathtubs—all created using natural stone and stone waste materials.
Key evaluation criteria include producibility, innovative use of materials, and commercialization potential. The 19 finalist projects have entered the production phase and will be exhibited throughout the fair at D-ESIGN Arena. The winners will be announced at the award ceremony on the opening day.
Sculpture Workshop Exhibition
As part of the Marble Izmir Sculpture Workshop, six sculptors produced their works through a live production model at Fuar Izmir between March 16 and April 8, 2026. These works will be presented to visitors at D-ESIGN Arena during the fair, held between April 14–17.
Curated by sculptor Ekin Erman, the workshop features works by Bahadır Hızol, Çağdaş Erçelik, Dilşad Akçayöz, Orhan Gazi Keskin, Özkan Arslan, and Tonguç Sercan. The exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the transformation of natural stone into artistic form. After the fair, the sculptures will be placed in various locations across Izmir, becoming permanent elements of the city.
Marble Talks: Design and Architecture in Focus
D-ESIGN Arena will also host Marble Talks, a series of panels and sessions featuring national and international speakers including industry professionals, architects, academics, and designers. The program will explore current approaches, design trends, and practical applications within the sector.
In addition to professional visitors, architecture and design students will also have the opportunity to attend these sessions and gain valuable insights.
Dedicated Spaces for Business Connections
Another key feature of D-ESIGN Arena will be the Marble B2B Lounge, designed as a central meeting point to support the fair’s international trade volume. Here, industry professionals, buyers and participating companies from around the world will be able to conduct scheduled one-on-one business meetings.
The Marble VIP Lounge also located within the same area will serve as a networking space where sector representatives can come together and establish new connections.
