Special Events

Have fun and GATHER with new friends and colleagues to socialize and celebrate interior design, and don’t forget to dress to impress!

Wednesday, September 16

Welcome Reception

5:30 - 7 p.m.

Mingle, network, and ignite connections as we kick off the GATHER: Catalyst experience! Join us for a casual reception to reconnect with old friends, forge new relationships, and explore the vibrant sponsor area.

THE SPARK: An Illuminating Welcome to GATHER: Catalyst 2026

7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Hudson Valley Lighting Group and held in their Dallas Market Center showroom, The Spark celebrates the people and ideas shaping what’s next in design.  Guests are invited to connect over artfully crafted cocktails, elevated bites, and unexpected moments of discovery as we set the tone for an inspiring week ahead, in a space illuminated by possibility.

Thursday, September 17

Welcome and Opening Keynote

9 – 10:15 a.m.   

In a time of endless noise, the most powerful tool a leader possesses isn’t a spreadsheet; it’s a story. Join us as we kick off GATHER: Catalyst 2026 with an immersive exploration of narrative with Ron Tite, a globally recognized expert on purpose-driven leadership and marketing.

This humorous and insightful keynote will explore stories as a deliberate growth strategy: to sell a vision before it exists, overcome objections without getting defensive, and position yourself as a trusted advisor. 

Connections & Celebrations: The ASID Networking Luncheon

man and woman taking a selfie at a reception

12:30 - 1:30 p.m.

Join ASID as we gather, connect, and celebrate over lunch. This is your chance to engage in insightful conversations and build new connections with fellow attendees, GATHER: Catalyst sponsors, and the ASID National Board of Directors. As we dine, we will also take a moment to recognizing the distinguished winners of the 2026 Ones to Watch program and the ASID Student Portfolio Competition.

Showroom Experience and Reception at Kichler 

5:30 – 8 p.m.   

Join us for an evening of inspiration and connection at the beautiful, state-of-the-art Kichler Experience Center (KEC). This exclusive reception, open to all GATHER: Catalyst attendees, invites you to explore the full potential of light while enjoying dinner and cocktails. To ensure a seamless experience, Kichler will provide complimentary transportation from the Dallas Market Center (DMC) to the KEC, with return service provided to all three ASID host hotels. 

Friday, September 18

ASID State of the Society Awards Luncheon

12:45 – 1:45 p.m.

Join us for an inspiring luncheon exploring the power of design and the future of our industry. During the event, Khoi Vo and Elizabeth Von Lehe, ASID, NCIDQ, will present the ASID State of the Society, showcasing the organization’s impact over the past year and offering a look ahead at our dynamic future as a community. We will also celebrate the recipients of the 2026 ASID FOCUS Awards, honoring exceptional projects addressing the world’s biggest challenges through innovative, human-centric design.

Design & Discover: The ASID Showroom Crawl

3:30 – 5 p.m.   

Experience the Dallas Market Center like an insider during ASID's curated showroom crawl. Explore a hand-selected collection of leading showrooms, connect directly with industry partners, and discover products, materials, and solutions shaping today's design landscape. Along the way, you'll visit Crystorama, Designer's Patio, Hinkley Lighting, Hubbardton Forge, Legrand, Minka, and Unique Loom for product demonstrations, meaningful conversations, and fresh inspiration you can bring back to your projects. Network with fellow design professionals while experiencing one of the industry's premier design destinations firsthand.

Light up the Night: ASID Awards Reception 

7:30 – 10:30 p.m. 

Neon Vibes and Western Skies in Celebration of Design Excellence

Dust off your boots and get ready to shine! We’re closing out GATHER: Catalyst by blending high-design with Lone Star style. Join us as we celebrate the 2026 ASID National Award winners and honor the 2026 ASID Fellows under the bright lights of Texas. A selection of light fare and drinks will be served. Cocktail attire encouraged.