From May 18 to 21, 2026, Belarusian State Technological University (BSTU) hosted a summer school dedicated to furniture design. The event established a collaborative discussion platform for students and faculty members from Northern (Arctic) Federal University (Arkhangelsk, Russia) to explore current industry trends, share best practices, and leverage the expertise of leading BSTU teachers.

Participants examined advanced design methodologies, academic programs, and ongoing research projects led by BSTU scientists. The curriculum provided an excellent opportunity for visiting students to broaden their professional horizons and adopt innovative workflows from their Belarusian colleagues.

With a strong emphasis on hands-on experience, the program covered modern manufacturing materials, hardware, and structural solutions. Specialized workshops and lectures focused on the following core areas:

• Modern materials and fittings in furniture manufacturing

• Ergonomic principles in product design

• Color theory and interior design palettes

• Design fundamentals: from concept to technical drawing

To gain first-hand experience with real-world innovation, participants visited the local showrooms of leading hardware manufacturers BLUM and GTV. Additionally, specialized modules introduced artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) applications in furniture design, offering a comprehensive overview of future digital visualization tools.

The academic schedule was complemented by a cultural program, which included a guided tour of Minsk with stops at key museums and symbolic attractions. Looking back, the summer school served as an impactful venue for immersive design learning, skill acquisition, and professional networking.