World Design Organization President Dr. Thomas Garvey asserts that Kochi has the potential to become India’s design hub, emphasizing the city’s design talent and global investment opportunities.
Kochi: Dr. Thomas Garvey, President of the World Design Organization (WDO), stated that Kochi has immense potential to emerge as India’s design hub. He made this remark during his visit to the Insight Centre for Design, Technology, and Creative Arts in Kochi.
On his first-ever visit to Kerala, Dr. Garvey expressed his excitement about interacting with students and professionals from the state’s design sector. He highlighted that Kerala has innovative ideas and a well-structured design ecosystem. He assured that the WDO would extend all possible support to students, professionals, and the broader design community through institutions like the Insight Centre.
“Kochi has an abundance of design talent compared to metropolitan cities. If utilized effectively, the city can position itself as India’s design hub,” he said.
Dr. Garvey emphasized that Kerala offers significant opportunities for global creative companies to invest and expand their operations. He also called for a more serious approach to urban design among city administrators in India. “Every city needs a Chief Design Officer, and even the smallest construction projects must adhere to design standards,” he suggested. He further stressed the importance of showcasing heritage assets effectively to the global audience.
Dr. Garvey urged India to actively pursue hosting global design summits like the World Design Congress. “Just like the Olympics, cities compete to secure hosting rights for such prestigious events. An Indian city should take the initiative to lead this effort,” he remarked.
Describing cities like Kochi as “hidden design gems,” he stated that the WDO is committed to helping such cities harness their potential. “With clear planning and preparation, the WDO is ready to provide full support for design-related initiatives,” he assured.
During the visit, Dr. Garvey engaged in discussions with students, faculty members, startup founders, professional designers, and Maker Village startups. The event was attended by Rahul R (IRS), Chairman of the Insight Centre for Design, Technology, and Creative Arts, as well as Manoj Kini, Principal of the Kerala State Institute of Design, among other industry leaders.
