About us
Senses & Sensibility Conference
The Senses & Sensibility (S&S) Conference is a biennial international event dedicated to the field of design, organized by UNIDCOM/IADE since 2003. S&S serves as a dynamic platform that unites individuals passionate about design and committed to exploring how design practice and research can address societal challenges and drive change.
We invite a diverse range of participants—whether designers, educators, researchers, graduate students, professionals, entrepreneurs, managers, policymakers, or community leaders—to contribute to thought-provoking discussions. Our goal is to foster a rich exchange of ideas that explores both the present and future of design, encouraging innovative, insightful, and sometimes provocative perspectives on its role in society.
Conference Format and Dates
The S&S Conference typically takes place in the autumn of odd-numbered years. Over the years, it has been hosted at various esteemed venues, thanks to our partnerships with universities and other organizations. The event spans three to four days, featuring a variety of sessions including hands-on workshops, academic paper presentations, and cultural/social activities. Each day is complemented by keynote addresses from distinguished guest speakers, offering expert insights into current trends and future directions in design.
History
The UNIDCOM/IADE International Conference, established in 2003, holds a key position in the history of design research in Portugal. As one of the country’s first scientific events dedicated to design, it played a pivotal role in advancing the field while strengthening the academic credibility and international recognition of UNIDCOM/IADE, the research center founded in 2000. At the time, the center was undergoing accreditation by FCT (Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia), and the conference served as a crucial platform for enhancing its visibility within the global design community.
Over the years, the conference has evolved in both format and scope, adapting to the changing landscape of design research and expanding its international reach. Initially launched under a different name in 2003, the conference underwent several rebranding efforts, reflecting its evolving partnerships, including associations with events like the Cumulus Conference and the Design Research Society (DRS) Conference. In 2011, the brand “Senses & Sensibility” was introduced, marking a significant milestone in the conference’s history and establishing its identity as a leading forum for interdisciplinary dialogue in design.
From its inception, the conference has been a cornerstone in the development of design research in Portugal, fostering connections with the global academic community and stimulating discussions that continue to shape the future of design theory and practice.
The branding of the Senses & Sensibility conference embodies a holistic approach to design that bridges sensory experience with deep emotional, cultural, and ethical awareness. “Sense” reflects the way design engages our senses—how we experience and interact with the world through sight, sound, touch, and more. “Sensibility” goes beyond this, inviting us to consider the emotional, intellectual, and ethical dimensions of design, encouraging a thoughtful, empathetic, and socially responsible approach. Together, Sense & Sensibility captures the evolution of design thinking, moving from human-centered solutions to a broader, humanity and planet-centric vision. It calls for a design practice that is attuned not only to the immediate visceral impact on users but also to the long-term implications for society, culture, and the environment. Through this branding, the conference aims to inspire reflection, dialogue, and innovation in the way we design for the future.
Introduction to UNIDCOM and IADE
UNIDCOM/IADE
UNIDCOM/IADE is a design-focused research center at IADE – Universidade Europeia, one of Portugal’s leading design schools. Established in 2000 and accredited by FCT in 2003, we conduct interdisciplinary research at the intersection of Design, Technology, Arts, Marketing, and Communication. Our diverse team collaborates with stakeholders across sectors to address local and global challenges, contributing to human dignity and flourishing.
We offer research opportunities for undergraduate, master’s, PhD students, and postdoctoral candidates. In the 2019 FCT evaluation, UNIDCOM received a “Very Good” rating. With a team of 131 researchers, including 34 PhD students, we promote multi-, inter-, and transdisciplinary research with a focus on practical applications and scientific independence.
UNIDCOM is committed to advancing knowledge and driving design-led innovation through collaborations with national and international partners. Our work spans theoretical exploration to real-world solutions, guiding our vision to become a global leader in Design Research.
IADE
IADE – Universidade Europeia is a leading institution in design, technology, and communication, located in Lisbon, Portugal. Offering a wide range of innovative programs, IADE focuses on design, creative technologies, games development, and more, with an emphasis on sustainability, creativity, and the future of design.
The university provides a dynamic academic environment where interdisciplinary learning and research are integrated with practical applications. IADE’s approach prepares students to address contemporary challenges and thrive in rapidly evolving creative industries. With a strong commitment to excellence, IADE continues to be a key player in shaping the future of design education and contributing to global design discourse.
