Reflecting on the festival's 20th anniversary, Bill Adair shares his admiration for DesignPhiladelphia's pioneering spirit "DesignPhiladelphia was the first of its kind in the country," he recalls, "and everyone came to learn from Hilary Jay and Jamer Hunt about how to replicate it in other places."

For Adair, DesignPhiladelphia has always been synonymous with energy and inclusivity He appreciates how the festival offers different levels of curated experiences, striking a balance between commissioned projects, co-presentations, and promotions. "You're a model for us in that sense," he says, noting how his organization looks up to DesignPhiladelphia. "We've often referenced you when explaining our approach". Adair acknowledges the challenges both organizations face, particularly in defining art and design and determining who gets to participate."You guys have been really good models in trying to figure that out and pushing definitions," he remarks.

Adair's reflections capture the essence of DesignPhiladelphia: a festival that not only showcases the city's vibrant design community but also serves as a model of inclusivity and innovation for others to follow.