October Special — 50% off Spotlights and exhibitor listsSee prices

    Dates

    21–24 Jan 2027

    City / country

    Toronto, Canada

    Venue

    Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Building

    Time

    9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    20 Floor Picks

    Matched booths for Interior Design Show

    Get my picks

    Exhibiting at?

    Enter your business email to get a free first Exclusive Spotlight worth 250$.

    Explore Spotlights
    Official Website Register / Buy Tickets

    Are you the organiser of this event?

    Event overview

    Overview

    The Interior Design Show (IDS) Toronto is Canada's largest celebration of design, serving as a catalyst and authority for Canadian design for over 25 years.

    It is a total design experience that showcases the best in global and Canadian design, from emerging designers to legacy brands.

    IDS is North America's premier design platform where visionary brands converge with an influential community of discerning professionals and design enthusiasts

    TL;DR

    1. 1Canada's definitive design event returns January 21-24, 2027, at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre
    2. 2Over 20,000 attendees including 8,000+ trade professionals and 8,000+ consumers converge to specify products
    3. 3Features include SELECT (premium curated furniture), Studio North (independent designers), ILLUMINATE (lighting showcase), and
    4. 4The accredited IDS Conference runs during Trade Days (Jan 22-23) with keynotes from industry
    5. 5A dedicated showcase for product discovery and lead generation, with consumers reporting high purchase

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Architects and architectural firms
    Interior designers and design studios
    Product specifiers and procurement professionals
    Builders, developers, and general contractors
    Hotel, restaurant, and hospitality owners/operators
    Retail buyers and showroom managers
    Design-enthusiastic consumers and homeowners
    Media and design journalists

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Premium furniture and lighting manufacturers
    Emerging and independent product designers
    Surface and material suppliers (ceramics, marble, tile, textiles)
    Home decor and accessory brands
    Kitchen and bath brands
    Workplace and contract furniture providers
    Architectural and design technology firms
    International trade delegations and pavilions (e.g., Italian Trade Agency)

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Furniture (residential and contract)
    Lighting (contemporary and decorative)
    Textiles and upholstery
    Flooring and surface materials (ceramics, marble, tile)
    Wallcoverings and finishes
    Kitchen and bath fixtures
    Home accessories and decor objects
    Glass and ceramics
    Architectural products and building systems
    Design technology and digital tools

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Halls & areas

    1
    North Building

    Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Building

    255 Front St W, M5V 2W6 Toronto, Canada

    Entrances & gates

    North Building Main Entrance

    North Building

    Primary entrance at 255 Front St W, Level 200. Box office located in east side lobby

    Facilities

    Parking

    Parking rates start at CAD 8 for 0 to 2 hours, CAD 10 for 2 to 4 hours, CAD 12 for 4 to 6 hours, CAD 15 for 6 to 12 hours, and CAD 23 for 12 to 24 hours. The rate structure is based on current info and subject to change for 2027. EV charging stations, accessible parking, and contactless payment accepted

    1,700 spaces · CA$30.00/day

    Accessibility

    MTCC is fully accessible with wheelchair-accessible entrances, elevators, and washrooms. Accessible seating for all show features. Support persons for attendees with disabilities receive complimentary admission with a paid ticket. Service animals welcome

    Prayer rooms

    No specific prayer room identified at the MTCC North Building. Nearby hotels or the Toronto Union Station may offer quiet spaces

    Cloakroom

    Coat check available on Level 200 near the main entrance. Fees may apply; cash and card accepted

    Luggage storage

    No dedicated luggage storage identified at the MTCC. Attendees should plan to store luggage at their hotel or use Union Station baggage storage (via UP Express/GO Transit)

    Charging points

    Charging stations available in common areas and near the ARIDO + IDC Stage lounge. Bring your own cable

    On-site shuttle

    No onsite shuttle at the venue. The MTCC is centrally located and walkable to downtown hotels and transit

    Food options

    North Building Food Court, Concession Stands, Surrounding Restaurants

    On-site dining

    Parking: MTCC has 1,700 indoor parking spaces across North and South Buildings. Height restriction 2 metres. Underground parking with EV charging, accessible spaces, accepts credit cards and contactless payment. No free parking on site; surrounding lots average CAD 30 per day

    Gate: North Building entrance at 255 Front St W. Main entrance and box office located on Level 200, east side lobby. Accessible via SkyWalk from Union Station to South Building, then connect to North Building

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Trade & Conference DaysJanuary 22 – 23, 2027, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Friday)
    10:00 AM –5:00 PM (Trade & Public Day)
    Public DayJanuary 24, 2027, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Opening Night PartyJanuary 22, 2027, 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM
    • Trade Day Pass

      Online price for professional trade access on Jan 22-23; on-site same price

      CA$35.00
    • Public Day Ticket

      Online price for public access on Jan 24; on-site same price

      CA$30.00
    • Opening Night Party Ticket

      Online price for Jan 22 party, includes Show Floor Pass; on-site $72

      CA$67.00
    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Badge collection and onsite box office located at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre North Building, Level 200, east side lobby. Trade passes start at $35 online; public tickets start at $30 online

    Ticket notes

    Trade Days (Jan 22-23) require trade registration and are oriented to professionals; Public Day (Jan 24) is open to all. The Opening Night Party ticket includes a complimentary Show Floor Pass. Seminars can be added during trade badge registration. Keynotes are free with any show pass. Support persons for attendees with disabilities receive complimentary admission with paid ticket

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    Catia Varricchio

    Director, Sales & Strategic Partnerships

    Christine Heyman

    Sales Manager

    What's on

    Programme

    Speakers

    JG

    Jackie Glass

    Principal Designer @ Jackie Glass Inc

    AI in residential design, smart home systems, wellness spaces

    AL

    Andrew Lane

    House of Digby

    AI's impact on the business of design

    BB

    Brad Burns

    Gensler Toronto

    AI's impact on the business of design

    HS

    Harvey Schaefer

    MillerKnoll

    AI's impact on the business of design

    ED

    Eames Demetrios

    Chairman @ Charles & Ray Eames Foundation

    Eames legacy, preservation and stewardship

    BD

    Ben Dreith

    US Editor

    Eames legacy (moderator)

    SB

    Supreet Barhay

    WZMH

    Reimagining workplaces

    NC

    Nicola Casciato

    WZMH

    Reimagining workplaces

    AM

    Alison McNeil

    Dialog

    Reimagining workplaces

    PS

    Peter Sobchak

    Canadian Interiors

    Reimagining workplaces (moderator)

    TB

    Tatiana Bilbao

    Principal @ Tatiana Bilbao Estudio

    Architecture of community, identity, representation

    JM

    Jack Murphy

    Editor-in-Chief @ The Architect's Newspaper and AN Interior

    Architecture of community (moderator)

    FI

    Fredrika Inger

    IKEA

    Turning ideas into products

    EP

    Elizabeth Pagliacolo

    Azure

    IKEA session (moderator)

    MN

    Mardi Najafi

    Principal, Chief Creative Officer, Retail + Hospitality Practice Lead @ SDI Design

    Designing adaptive workplaces

    SP

    Sebastien Panouille

    NCQLP-certified Lighting Designer and Founder @ ThinkL Studio

    Lighting in interior design

    AM

    Adriana Mot

    Consultant, Spatial & Behavioral Health @ Selftropy

    Life-work balance for interior designers

    Topic tracks

    AI and Technology in DesignWorkplace and Commercial DesignDesign Legacy and StewardshipSustainability and Human-Centred DesignProduct Design and InnovationLighting and Spatial Experience

    Awards

    IDS Booth Awards

    Annual

    Each year, a panel of industry experts judges exhibition design quality on the show floor, presenting six awards in categories including Judges' Choice, Sustainability, and size-based best-in-show categories

    Judges' ChoiceSustainability50 Sq.ft to 199 Sq.ft200 Sq.ft Gold Award201 Sq.ft to 499 Gold Award
    source

    Sponsors

    GROHE

    Anatolia

    KHAYERI

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2027 · 25,000 visitors

    Official 2027 attendee/exhibitor counts are not yet published. The organiser website cites 20,000+ attendees and 8,000+ trade registrants, but these figures appear to be based on prior editions or forecasts for the current edition. No official 2027-specific estimates were found

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    20,000

    Exhibitors

    250

    Growth over time

    New this edition

    • 1

      Furniture Forecast

      A new gallery-style initiative for IDS Toronto 2026 that presented recent launches from global manufacturers in a curated setting designed by Carv Projects

      Source
    • 2

      ILLUMINATE

      A new exhibition-style zone for IDS Toronto 2026 offering a focused snapshot of the lighting industry, curated by ThinkL Studio

      Source
    • 3

      How We Work

      A feature exhibition presented as a trio of conceptual work environments exploring evolving approaches to office design, created by BDP Quadrangle, Ste Marie + Moooi, and Syllable + Three H

      Source

    Testimonials

    This year we leaned into experimentation — inviting designers, brands, and visitors to experience design as a living discipline and to test new ways of thinking about space, materials, and how we come together. Even in the snow, the energy on the show floor was extraordinary

    Will Sorrell · National Director · IDS Canada · 2026

    Next edition outlook

    2027-01-21 – 2027-01-24
    confirmed

    IDS Toronto 2027 (January 21-24) builds on the experiential direction of 2026, retaining and expanding features like ILLUMINATE, SELECT, Studio North, and Furniture Forecast. A new Night & Day hospitality design feature replaces Future Neighbourhood as the centrepiece installation. The conference program addresses AI's impact on design, workplace evolution, and sustainability, with keynotes featuring Jackie Glass, Andrew Lane, Brad Burns, Harvey Schaefer, and others. The Italian Trade Agency has confirmed a pavilion for 2027, marking the third consecutive year of Italian participation, reflecting the strategic importance of the Canadian market

    New Night & Day hospitality design feature exploring the evolution of hotel design Confirmed Italian Pavilion for the third consecutive year Continued expansion of ILLUMINATE and Furniture Forecast as platform zones Conference sessions dedicated to AI, workplace transformation, and Eames legacy Return of SELECT premium gallery and Studio North independent designer section

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The 2026 edition of IDS Toronto reimagined the show floor as a living laboratory, shifting from passive product display toward immersive spatial experimentation. Three major feature exhibitions—How We Work, Furniture Forecast, and ILLUMINATE—formed the core of this experiential approach, exploring the dissolving boundaries between office, home, and hospitality, and redefining quality and longevity in furniture design. The show maintained its role as Canada's premier design platform, attracting thousands of architects, interior designers, students, and design enthusiasts despite record-breaking snow and cold weather. Keynotes from Yves Béhar, Eames Demetrios, and Tatiana Bilbao anchored the intellectual program, while the Booth Awards and Studio North/Prototype Awards recognised excellence across product presentation and emerging talent

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    IDS Toronto 2026 attracted a high-quality mix of design professionals and enthusiastic consumers. Canadian Interiors reported thousands of designers, architects, brands, and students attended despite extreme weather conditions. The show floor energy was described as 'extraordinary' by IDS Canada National Director Will Sorrell. The presence of major keynote speakers and accredited seminars drew strong professional attendance, while the public day attracted design-savvy consumers. According to the organiser's pre-show materials, the event typically draws 8,000+ trade registrants and 8,000+ consumers, many of whom specify or purchase products

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Exhibitors reported strong engagement and valuable networking opportunities. DAKO, a European joinery manufacturer, noted numerous discussions with contractors, design studios, architects, and engineers, with Canadian investors showing particular interest in European solutions. Gibbon Architectural described the show as 'genuinely valuable' for catching up with fellow brands and understanding industry direction. According to show data cited by industry sources, 68% of trade attendees visit specifically to specify new products, and 53% of consumers purchase from IDS exhibitors within 12 months. The absence of some major brands in 2026 gave smaller and newer companies greater visibility on the show floor

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    North America

    Why it matters

    IDS Toronto is the definitive commercial and cultural hub for Canada's CAD 2.8 billion interior design industry, connecting over 20,000 attendees (8,000+ trade professionals) with 250+ exhibitors annually. For buyers, it provides a live, curated showcase to specify products across furniture, lighting, surfaces, and materials from global and Canadian brands, with features like ILLUMINATE and SELECT addressing the top specification categories. For exhibitors, it offers direct access to decision-makers—88% of trade attendees visit to specify new products and over 70% of consumers make purchases from exhibitors within 12 months—making it a critical lead-generation platform for brands entering or expanding in the North American market. With confirmed international participation including the Italian Pavilion and a keynote program addressing AI, workplace evolution, and sustainability, IDS Toronto remains the flagship event for the Canadian design community

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    AI as the Primary Disruptor in Design

    AI is emerging as the most disruptive trend shaping industries, according to BMI's 'Towards 2050' report. Generative AI is transforming design workflows, from concept generation to project management, and the 2027 IDS keynote program directly addresses AI's impact on the business of design

    Source
    02

    Workplace as a Destination

    The office is being reimagined as a purposeful destination to attract talent back to the office. The trend focuses on creating 'meaningfully better than home' environments that offer amenities, flexibility, and community, a theme echoed in IDS 2027's 'How We Work' feature and workplace-focused keynotes

    Source
    03

    Hospitality Design Convergence

    Hospitality design is blurring lines between commercial, residential, and office spaces. Hotels are becoming multi-functional social and work hubs. IDS 2027's new 'Night & Day' installation is a direct response to this trend, exploring the future of hotel design with immersive, experiential spaces

    Source
    04

    Honest Materiality and Sustainability

    Designers are moving toward 'honest materiality'—using raw, sustainable, and often biodegradable materials that emphasize craftsmanship and longevity. This was a key theme in the 2026 Furniture Forecast, and it continues to gain traction as environmental consciousness grows

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    AI Emerges as the Most Disruptive Trend Shaping Industries Through 2050

    A report by BMI identifies AI as the most disruptive megatrend globally, driving 27 industry megatrends. The report's survey of 741 senior executives highlights AI's impact across sectors, emphasizing its role in reshaping business models and requiring strategic adaptation in industries like interior design

    Read

    Robotics and Interconnectivity Lead Automation Investment

    A survey by IMI's Industrial Automation sector shows that 41% of engineering and manufacturing professionals see robotics as the top automation investment for competitive advantage. However, the report stresses that success depends on interconnectivity and AI-driven intelligence, mirroring the design industry's shift toward integrated technology solutions

    Read

    Italian Pavilion Confirmed for IDS Toronto 2027

    The Italian Trade Agency (ICE) will organize a collective Italian participation at IDS Toronto 2027 for the third consecutive year, featuring companies in furniture, ceramics, marble, lighting, and home decor. This underscores the growing importance of the Canadian market for European design brands

    Read

    North American Design Event Circuit

    September 2026 – December 2027

    IDS Toronto is part of a vibrant North American design event circuit that includes major trade shows and public design festivals. This planning window covers key events from fall 2026 through winter 2027, offering professionals opportunities for product sourcing, networking, and trend discovery across the continent

    21–24 Jan 2027

    Salone del Mobile.Milano

    Milan, Italy

    The world's largest furniture and design fair, overshadowing IDS in scale and global reach but less focused on the Canadian market

    website
    21–24 Jan 2027

    DesignTO Festival

    Toronto, Canada

    Focuses on independent and emerging designers, with exhibitions, talks, and events across the city; complements IDS for those staying for the full design week

    website

    Fall 2026 Trade Shows

    ICFFHigh Point MarketDwell on Design

    These events in October 2026 are key for North American design professionals looking for commercial product sourcing and networking before IDS 2027

    Toronto Design Week (January 2027)

    IDS TorontoDesignTO Festival

    IDS Toronto (Jan 21-24) is the anchor of Toronto Design Week, with DesignTO starting immediately after; an ideal cluster for design professionals and consumers

    Spring 2027 Milan Design Week

    Salone Del Mobile.Milano

    April 2027; the global benchmark; for those able to travel internationally, it offers a broader and more trend-setting experience than any North American show

    Event dates and positions are based on official event websites, trade press, and industry knowledge. Dates for 2027 events are based on historical patterns or official announcements where available

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · CAD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    YYZ

    Toronto Pearson International Airport

    Toronto's primary international airport. Take the UP Express train to Union Station (25 minutes, CAD 12.35) then SkyWalk to the MTCC; taxi/rideshare costs CAD 60-80; GO Transit Bus Route 35 provides an economical option (CAD 9-11, 45-55 minutes)

    26 km

    to venue

    25-35 minutes

    by car

    YTZ

    Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport

    Downtown island airport with regional flights. Taxi/rideshare costs CAD 25-30; TTC Bus 121 to Front St W at John St then short walk to venue; free shuttle to Union Station available

    2.5 km

    to venue

    10-12 minutes

    by car

    YHM

    Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport

    Secondary international airport serving Southern Ontario. Limited commercial service; taxi/rideshare to Toronto costs CAD 120-160; GO Transit bus connections to Union Station available (2+ hours)

    80 km

    to venue

    55-70 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    Budget
    Entertainment District / Downtown

    USD 85–100 / night

    Basic rooms within 1-2 km of MTCC. Shared or hostel-style options available. Prices are estimates based on typical downtown Toronto rates

    Mid-range
    Financial District / Eaton Centre

    USD 100–140 / night

    Business hotels with amenities; walking distance to venue. Examples include Holiday Inn Downtown, Cambridge Suites. Prices are estimates

    Premium
    Waterfront / Financial District

    USD 150–250 / night

    Full-service luxury hotels near CN Tower, Rogers Centre. Examples include Fairmont Royal York, Ritz-Carlton, Westin Harbour Castle. Prices are estimates

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    TTC Subway (Line 1)

    Estimated costCAD 3.30 single fare
    Best forUnion Station stop

    Direct connection to MTCC via the SkyWalk indoor walkway. Frequent service with fare capping: after 47 rides in a month, additional rides are free. Best option for downtown hotels and attractions

    TTC Streetcar

    Estimated costCAD 3.30 single fare
    Best for504 King, 509 Harbourfront, 510 Spadina

    Routes 504 and 509 stop within 2-3 blocks of MTCC; 510 connects to Spadina area. Service runs frequently during show hours. Use PRESTO card or contactless payment

    UP Express Train

    Estimated costCAD 12.35 one-way
    Best forPearson Airport (YYZ) ↔ Union Station

    Fastest airport connection (25 min). Discounts available for online booking (CAD 10.30) and group bookings. Arrives at Union Station, then SkyWalk to MTCC

    GO Transit Bus

    Estimated costCAD 9.00.00
    Best forRoute 35 – Pearson Airport ↔ Union Station

    Economical airport option; 40-55 minutes. Hourly service. Connects to other GO regional bus and rail services at Union Station

    Rideshare / Taxi

    Estimated costUber/Lyft CAD 10-15 within downtown; taxi to/from YYZ CAD 60-80
    Best forCitywide – from airport, hotels, and downtown

    Uber and Lyft operate citywide. Taxis available at airport ranks and hotel stands. Flat rates from airport to downtown are common but metered citywide

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)Visa-exempt foreign nationals (except U.S. citizens) flying to or transiting through Canada by air. Also available to citizens of certain visa-required countries who have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years or hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa$5.00Usually minutes to days; apply well in advance
    Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa)Citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt for Canada, including business visitors attending trade shows$75.00Varies by country; check IRCC processing times

    U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents do not require a visa or eTA to visit Canada. Citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., UK, EU, Japan, Australia) require an eTA for air travel. Qatar citizens were added to the visa-exempt list in 2025. Citizens of Malaysia and Indonesia may qualify for eTA if they have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years or hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa. Check official Canada.ca visa tool for specific nationality requirements

    Canada accepts ATA carnets for temporary import of commercial goods such as trade show displays, product samples, and demonstration equipment. Carnets are issued by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce and are valid for up to one year. Without a carnet, customs may apply duties on entry; carnets help clear goods duty-free and expedite border processing. Goods must be re-exported within the carnet's validity period. Security may be required for goods not accompanied by a valid carnet

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Toronto in January is cold and snowy. Average daytime high is -1°C (30°F) with overnight lows around -8°C (18°F). Historical data shows frequent light snow, occasional freezing rain, and wind chill making it feel significantly colder. Snowfall is common, with average January snow accumulation of 30-40 cm. The event's January 21-24 dates typically fall during the coldest and snowiest part of winter

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    The Metro Toronto Convention Centre is exceptionally well-connected to downtown transit. Union Station (Canada's busiest transportation hub) is directly linked via the PATH network and SkyWalk, providing covered access to GO Transit, VIA Rail, TTC subway (Line 1), UP Express (airport train), and regional bus services. The venue is also located near major highways (Gardiner Expressway, Don Valley Parkway) and is walkable from downtown hotels and attractions. The PATH underground pedestrian network connects MTCC to surrounding office towers, hotels, and shopping, making it possible to navigate much of downtown without going outside during cold weather

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Business Etiquette

    Canadian business culture is professional, punctual, and direct with a friendly tone. Handshakes are standard for meetings; first names are commonly used quickly. Punctuality is important. Networking is highly valued – the Opening Night Party is the primary social event of the show. English is the working language; French is not required but is spoken in parts of Canada

    Tipping Culture

    Tipping is customary in Canada: 15-20% at restaurants, CAD 1-2 per bag for hotel porters, and 10-15% for taxi/rideshare. Coffee shops often have tip jars or electronic prompts (10-15%). Gratuity may be included for large groups at restaurants

    Payment and Taxes

    Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere; contactless payment (tap) is widely available. The currency is Canadian Dollar (CAD). Ontario applies 13% HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) on most goods and services; this is typically included in displayed prices

    Communication and Queuing

    Canadians value politeness and orderly queuing. Design professionals in Toronto are approachable and collegial. The show environment is professional but welcoming; networking and conversations with exhibitors are encouraged

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the primary international gateway for IDS Toronto. Billy Bishop (YTZ) is the closest airport for domestic/regional flyers

    Book flights 2 to 3 months in advance for best pricing. Consider flying into YYZ and taking UP Express train (CAD 12.35) to Union Station – 25 minutes to downtown, faster than taxi during rush hour. YTZ is closer but has fewer flights and no direct international connections

    Visa

    Most attendees will need either an eTA or a visitor visa. Business visitors attending IDS Toronto for meetings, purchasing, or trade show activities generally qualify under the business visitor exemption and do not need a work permit, provided they do not enter the Canadian labour market. Border officers now apply stricter scrutiny – bring comprehensive documentation including invitation letters, employment verification, proof of funds, and detailed itinerary

    Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

    Processing: eTA: minutes to days; Visitor Visa: varies by country

    Business visitors should carry a letter of invitation from the Canadian host (organiser or exhibiting company), proof of foreign employment and income, detailed business purpose, and sufficient funds. Visit duration is typically up to 6 months but determined at entry. Frequent travellers may face additional scrutiny; avoid vague documentation

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Areas to stay

    Entertainment District · Financial District · Waterfront

    Budget

    CAD 110

    Mid-range

    CAD 135

    Premium

    CAD 200

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: From YYZ: UP Express train to Union Station (25 min, CAD 12.35) then SkyWalk to MTCC; taxi/rideshare CAD 60-80; GO Bus Route 35 (CAD 9-11, 45-55 min). From YTZ: taxi/rideshare CAD 25-30; TTC Bus 121 to Front St W

    Hotel → venue: Downtown hotels are walkable (5-15 min). Use TTC streetcar (504 King, 509 Harbourfront) or subway (Line 1 to Union Station) for longer distances

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft operate throughout Toronto. From downtown to MTCC: CAD 10-15; from airport: CAD 60

    Public transit: TTC single fare CAD 3.30; Day pass CAD 13.50. Union Station connects to subway, GO Transit, UP Express. SkyWalk provides indoor access from Union Station to MTCC

    Parking: MTCC parking: CAD 8 (0-2h), CAD 23 (12-24h). Limited onsite; nearby lots CAD 30/day. EV charging available

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: January

    Temperature: 8°C to -1°C (18°F to 30°F)

    Seasonality: Frequent light snow and freezing rain; average monthly snowfall 30-40 cm

    Packing: Pack a heavy winter coat, waterproof snow boots, hat, gloves, scarf, and thermal layers. Toronto's show floor is indoors, but walking between hotels and the venue requires navigating cold and potentially slushy streets. The SkyWalk from Union Station reduces outdoor exposure

    Itinerary builder

    Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

    Add side trips

    Default day plan

    1. 08:30Arrive via SkyWalk from Union Station; collect badge at North Building Level 200
    2. 09:00Keynote session (free with pass) – check schedule for featured speakers
    3. 10:30Explore SELECT premium gallery and Studio North independent designers
    4. 12:30Lunch at venue food court or nearby restaurants (CN Tower area)
    5. 14:00Attend accredited seminar or workshop
    6. 16:00Visit ILLUMINATE feature and Furniture Forecast; networking in The District
    7. 18:00Day ends; head to Opening Night Party (Jan 22) or explore nearby attractions

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: January 22, 2027 (Thursday)

    Thursday is the first Trade Day and features the full conference program with accredited seminars, keynotes on the Main Stage, and the Opening Night Party (7-11pm) – the most comprehensive experience for professionals. It has the highest concentration of trade attendees, maximising networking and lead-generation opportunities. Trade passes start at CAD 35

    T-90

    Register for trade or public pass online to secure lower rates — Trade Day Pass CAD 35 online; Public Day Ticket CAD 30 online. On-site prices are same, but online registration is recommended

    T-60

    Book travel and accommodations for January 21-24 — January weather may cause delays; book flexible options where possible

    T-30

    Review keynote and seminar schedule; reserve sessions if required — Keynotes are free with any show pass. Seminar registration is additional

    T-14

    Check weather forecast and pack winter attire — Toronto in January averages -8°C to -1°C with frequent snow

    T-7

    Plan show floor route using feature and exhibitor guide — Must-see features: ILLUMINATE, SELECT, Studio North, Night & Day

    T-1

    Download event app and confirm badge pickup details — Badge collection at North Building Level 200 east lobby

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    08:30

    Arrive via SkyWalk from Union Station; collect badge at North Building Level 200

    MTCC North Building
    09:00

    Keynote session (free with pass) – check schedule for featured speakers

    IDS Conference Theatre
    10:30

    Explore SELECT premium gallery and Studio North independent designers

    Exhibition Floor
    12:30

    Lunch at venue food court or nearby restaurants (CN Tower area)

    MTCC or surrounding
    14:00

    Attend accredited seminar at ARIDO + IDC Stage or conference rooms

    Seminar Room
    16:00

    Visit ILLUMINATE lighting feature and Furniture Forecast; shop. The District

    Exhibition Floor
    18:00

    Day ends; attend Opening Night Party (Jan 22) or explore nearby attractions

    MTCC / Downtown Toronto

    Side trips

    5

    CN Tower

    Landmark / Observation Deck

    Iconic Toronto views, EdgeWalk, 360 Restaurant

    5-minute walk

    Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

    Attraction

    Indoor aquarium with underwater tunnel; excellent for evening downtime

    5-minute walk

    Rogers Centre

    Stadium

    Home to Blue Jays; check for events during show dates

    6-minute walk

    St. Lawrence Market

    Market / Food

    Historic food market with local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared meals

    15-minute walk

    Distillery District

    Cultural / Shopping

    Pedestrian-only heritage district with galleries, boutiques, and restaurants

    20-minute walk or 5-min transit

    Networking spots

    7

    Opening Night Party

    Official Event

    The primary networking event, held on the show floor Jan 22 at 7 PM. Presented by Anatolia, curated by Rollout Sound. Includes complimentary Show Floor Pass

     

    ARIDO + IDC VIP Lounge

    Association Lounge

    Exclusive lounge for ARIDO and IDC members – a relaxing spot to network and unwind during the show. Portfolio reviews and mentorship for students

     

    BAIDA Networking Session

    Industry Group

    Connect with Black Architects and Interior Designer Association Executive Team. Meeting at Central Bar, 3:30-4pm on Friday Jan 23 and Saturday Jan 24

     

    IDC Networking Session

    Industry Group

    Connect about the future of Interior Design with Interior Designers of Canada. 11-11:30am on Friday Jan 23

     

    RIBA Networking Session

    Industry Group

    Network with top architects at Royal Institute of British Architects session. 5-5:30pm on Friday Jan 23

     

    IALD Networking Session

    Industry Group

    Connect about the future of lighting with International Association of Lighting Designers. 11:30am-12pm on Saturday Jan 24

     

    The District

    Marketplace

    Retail area where visitors and exhibitors mingle; informal networking during shopping hours

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    IDS Toronto 2027 booth pricing not published as of September 2026. A preliminary budgeting checklist references 2026 costs as a guide, with a 5% increase expected for 2027; final forms will be in the Exhibitor Kit closer to the show. Hardwall packages for a 10'x20' booth started at $3,824.00 for 2026

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 18.58 m² × $156.00/m²$2,898.48
    • Hotel × 3 nights$255.00
    Estimated total$3,153.48

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    Trade Day Pass

    visitor · Professional

    CAD 35 / per person

    official

    Public Day Ticket

    visitor · Consumer

    CAD 30 / per person

    official

    Opening Night Party + Pass

    both · Event

    CAD 67–72 / per person

    official

    Hardwall Package (10'x20')

    exhibitor · Booth Construction

    CAD 3824 / per booth

    estimate

    MTCC Parking (Daily Max)

    both · Transport

    CAD 23 / per day

    official

    UP Express Airport Train

    visitor · Transport

    CAD 12.35 / one-way

    official

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    This quiz helps you decide whether to visit, exhibit at, or skip IDS Toronto based on your role, budget, goals, and readiness. Answer each question honestly to get a personalized recommendation

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    What is your primary role in the design industry?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Your goal is product sourcing, professional education, or direct networking. Trade Days (Jan 22-23) are best for professionals; Public Day (Jan 24) is best for consumers

    Best for

    Interior designers, architects, specifiers, students, and design enthusiasts who want to discover new products, attend accredited conference sessions, and network with Canada's design community

    Min. budget

    $50.00

    Timeline

    T-30: register for tickets; T-7: review schedule and book keynotes

    Risks

    January weather may cause travel delays

    Popular keynotes and sessions fill up quickly – arrive early

    On-site ticket prices are higher than online

    exhibit

    You have a clear sales pipeline for Canada, a product story that benefits from in-person display, and capacity to follow up on leads within 30 days post-show

    Best for

    Furniture, lighting, surface, and home decor brands targeting the Canadian design market. Ideal for companies with a defined product line, sales-ready staff, and a budget of CAD 10,000+

    Min. budget

    $5,000.00

    Timeline

    T-180: secure booth space; T-120: finalise booth design; T-60: order services and lead capture; T-30: staff training

    Risks

    Booth prices not yet published for 2027; budget planning based on 2026 estimates

    Competition for prime booth locations is high

    Weather may affect freight and staff travel

    skip

    Your target audience is outside Canada, your product category is not well-represented at IDS, or you have no sales capacity in the Canadian market for the next 12 months

    Best for

    Companies with limited budget, no Canadian sales presence, or those primarily focused on B2C transactions in other markets

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    N/A

    Risks

    Missing the event could mean losing early market intelligence

    Competitors may gain brand visibility in your absence

    Book with

    Partners

    ARIDO + IDC Stage

    Association Partner

    Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO) and Interior Designers of Canada (IDC) partnered for the third time at IDS Toronto, featuring educational panels, VIP lounge, portfolio reviews, and mentorship opportunities

    Visit partner Confidence: High

    Direct from official event site

    GROHE

    Presenting Sponsor

    Presenting sponsor of Trade Days at IDS Toronto

    Confidence: High

    Mentioned on tickets and registration page

    Anatolia

    Presenting Sponsor

    Presenting sponsor of the Opening Night Party at IDS Toronto

    Confidence: High

    Mentioned on Opening Night page

    KHAYERI

    Stage Sponsor

    Presenting sponsor of the Main Stage keynote program

    Confidence: High

    Mentioned on Features page

    Rollout Sound

    Experience Partner

    Curated and produced the IDS Party experience, activating the venue with a venue-wide sonic journey

    Visit partner Confidence: High

    Official party page

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    SELECT
    An exclusive, invitation-only feature within IDS showcasing exceptional premium furniture and lighting brands in a curated gallery setting, celebrating design innovation, craftsmanship, and quality
    2
    Studio North
    A dedicated section where independent product designers exhibit their custom and one-off creations, including furniture, lighting, glass, ceramics, textiles, and decor objects in a gallery-like setting
    3
    Prototype
    A platform within Studio North featuring products not yet in production that address new ideas for the residential market, showcasing conceptual and to-market works
    4
    ILLUMINATE
    A curated exhibition section built from tube and clamp scaffolding that presents high-quality, contemporary lighting products from leading brands, positioned at the entrance of the show
    5
    The District
    The marketplace at IDS where designers and consumers can shop and discover fresh collections of design products for the home, featuring smaller decor items and art
    6
    Furniture Forecast
    A gallery-like feature spotlighting leading furniture manufacturers and brands on plinth spaces within the show floor, showcasing the beauty, brilliance, and artistry of design pieces

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card