AUST Turns the Spotlight on Design Thinking with “Design ON”

Hosted by the Arts + Design Department, the day served as a platform for graduating students to unveil their final projects—rigorous, human-centered solutions built on design thinking and relevance. From climate-conscious branding to mental health pertinent design solutions, the work reflected an academic program deeply rooted in purpose-driven design.

The initiative was backed by a heavyweight lineup of international voices. Dr. Melike Taşcıoğlu Vaughan, President of the International Council of Design (ICoD), brought both insight and influence to the panel. A Turkish graphic designer and academic, Vaughan is renowned for her work at the intersection of design education and social justice. As an advocate for global design connectivity, her presence underscored the event’s international resonance.

Also taking part was Nicholas Ward, British fashion entrepreneur and co-founder of the acclaimed label Longshaw Ward, known for marrying masculine cuts with feminine fluidity. Finnish architect and IFI President Tatu Ahlroos completed the trio, offering a European perspective on how interior design is adapting to contemporary social shifts.

The event was not confined to AUST’s Beirut campus. A follow-up exhibition at Beirut Digital District showcased student work across graphic, interior, and fashion disciplines. 

In parallel, AUST announced the launch of its updated design program and foundation year structure—now centered on sustainability, social equity, and real-world application.

“Our role as educators is to instill in students the power to transform—not just design, but the way we live,” said Dr. Halim Choueiry, Chairperson of the Arts + Design Department.

“With Design ON, we’re turning design into a force for good in Lebanon and the region.”

In line with this vision, AUST has officially joined ICoD, the Global Design Thinking Alliance (GDTA), and announced additional international partnerships aimed at further embedding Lebanon’s role in the global design conversation.

Looking ahead, AUST will be hosting an exclusive fashion show on July 23, along with a series of more intimate, impact-driven design forums.

The event wasn’t just another academic curtain-raiser—it was a sharp declaration of where design education is headed and who’s shaping that journey.

ArabAd was on the ground at the exhibition, engaging with students and diving into the work. Our editorial team selected three standout projects that will be featured in the upcoming Student Talent edition—an edition that will spotlight design education across the region and give top graduates a chance to introduce themselves through a 2-page editorial spread: a visual CV-meets-portfolio for the regional creative scene—because when bold thinking meets bold design, it deserves a bigger stage.