British design is in excellent health, and for proof you need only look to the talent on display across this year’s London Design Festival, held from 12–20 September. Anticipation is rising as designers – both established names and emerging talents – reveal details of the vast array of exhibitions, installations, talks and events that will once again cement London’s status as a global design capital.
According to Ben Evans, director and co founder of London Design Festival, London retains its allure. While the festival is traditionally mapped across districts, they have simplified things to focus on the events not to be missed across the east, west and centre of the capital.
Central Highlights
One of the main attractions in the central area is ‘The Pangolin Shield’, a landmark pavilion on the bank of the River Thames near Somerset House. Created by Studio Saar in collaboration with Atelier One, it explores dualities such as protection and vulnerability, craft and technology, East and West.
USM Record Shop is another must-visit, where USM is collaborating with Symbol Audio and The Vinyl Factory to turn its Marylebone showroom into a working record shop with a coffee bar. Visitors can find new audio obsessions, view USM’s new collection of sound solutions, and listen to live DJ sets.
Bethan Laura Wood is presenting a new purple version of Bocci’s iconic ‘14p’ lamp with an installation at 15 Bateman Street, promising to bring an injection of colour to London Design Week.
East London Events
In east London, New Designers Selects is debuting at the festival, showcasing designers one to five years into business, selected for originality, quality and commercial potential. Dan Davies Design is one of the highlights, with his ‘Hem’ stool on display.
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Material Matters is another event to discover innovative uses of materials, with a new home in a former industrial warehouse on Curtain Road. Tabitha Bargh’s handmade recycled cardboard lampshades are sure to make some rethink sustainable design.
Fritz Hansen Sound Club is popping up during the festival, offering a chance to see new product and enjoy an experience with three distinct domestic spaces open to kick back and listen to vinyl curated by Danish DJ Willone.
West London Attractions
In west London, Studio Iron is bringing its eclectic roster of makers to Brompton for the first time, mixing fine art and fashion. Isamaya Ffrench notes that if someone spends months making an detailed piece from chainmail and beads, it should be experienced as art, regardless of its medium.
The Conran Shop is celebrating 10 years of kinetic experimentation with an exhibition by London-based design duo Isabel + Helen, offering a playful peek into the work of their studio. Expect joyfully tactile pieces designed as an antidote to digital transience.
For design lovers seeking fresh, forward-thinking ideas, Isola is a must-visit, uniting emerging designers and independent studios from around the globe in a showcase of talent. 2LG Studio’s ‘Messy Heart’ is a showcase celebrating emotion, individuality and connection, presented in a unique and engaging way.
As the festival progresses, it becomes clear that this year’s London Design Festival is all about exploring the intersection of traditional crafts and modern design, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and bio-materials. The events and exhibitions on display showcase the best of British design, from established names to emerging talents.
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In practice, this means that visitors can expect to see a wide range of designs that not only showcase the latest trends but also highlight the importance of craftsmanship and attention to detail. From Camille Walala’s large-scale cityscape at Sketch to Tamart’s immersive room set at The Wax Building, there’s something for every design enthusiast.
The festival’s focus on accessibility is also noteworthy, with many events and exhibitions offering a platform for emerging designers to showcase their work. Aram’s free-to-enter exhibition in its basement gallery is a great example of this, featuring 123 objects by designers from across the UK.
With so many events and exhibitions to choose from, visitors are sure to find something that inspires them. Whether it’s the colourful redesigns of iconic venues or the thought-provoking pavilions, this year’s London Design Festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in design.
The variety of events and exhibitions on offer is a key aspect of the festival’s appeal. It allows visitors to explore different aspects of design, from the latest trends to the importance of sustainability and craftsmanship.
Ultimately, the London Design Festival is a celebration of design in all its forms, and it promises to be an exciting and inspiring event for all who attend.