Sometimes there’s no substitute for getting hands-on with the latest fabrics, wallpapers, furniture and lighting. And there’s nowhere better for that than London Design Week. Free to attend and open from 13 - 17 March, this annual celebration of creativity at Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour is an unmissable chance to immerse yourself in new ideas from a world-class range of talent.
As well as the venue’s 120 full-time showrooms (home to some of the industry’s biggest brands), there will be an opportunity to discover new favourites from the 27 pop-up House Guests.
These include established names such as Rose Uniacke, and British sofa expert Maker & Son, which will offer a moment’s respite in its legendarily cosy ‘Love Seat’. But there will also be some names you may not instantly recognise.
How about DKT Artworks? This London company’s papier-mâché wallcoverings are a must-see. Or Anta Scotland – a brand offering contemporary tweed rugs, textiles and stoneware using locally sourced materials?
For an injection of creativity, colour and pattern, be sure to stop by French fabric brand Misia’s showroom to see its collaboration with Maison Lily Blue. Launched at Design Week, the collection sees handcrafted walnut screens upholstered in Misia’s ‘Places des Vosges’ textile, inspired by La Marais – where the brand was founded. A moment of Parisian joie de vivre in the midst of London Design Week.
If, after all that exploration, you need to rest your feet while engaging your brain, there’s a packed Conversations in Design schedule (including our own Editor-in-Chief Ben Spriggs chatting to Alice Temperley – sadly now sold out). This year’s ticketed talks allow everyone the chance to hear directly from the designers, offering incredible insight and advice. There’s also plenty of free events – be sure to check the Access All Areas programme for what’s on when you visit. dcch.co.uk
