The tail end of May is an exciting time in London. It’s not just the (relatively) delightful weather that gives locals that rare chance to be out and about in shorts and sunglasses. It’s during this time that the Clerkenwell area – home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet – is host to the Clerkenwell Design Week , UK’s top interior design and architecture festival.
Last year itself saw 34,973 attendees flock the streets and over 300 exhibiting brands! There are fairly few exhibitions that bring about a sense of excitement like the Clerkenwell Design Week does. But then again, CDW isn’t an ‘exhibition’ in the traditional sense of the word.
What sets CDW apart is its non-conformance to the boundaries of an exhibition hall or building. Why confine visitors to a concrete space, when London has so much to offer. You’ll also find that exhibitors aren’t forced to stick to conventional exhibition stands – there’s space in old churches, underground prisons, and even the park! There’s something for everyone – from exhibits and installations to seminars and workshops for those looking to interact and learn.
It’s not all work and no play either. Londoners make sure to take full advantage of their few days of British summer! Brands and showrooms put their best foot forward and open their doors to anyone wanting to view and learn about their respective products – there’s breakfast, lunch, and drinks. And how often do you see an ice-cream truck outside a furniture showroom? Patrons of CDW speak will also speak highly of an assortment of after parties one can attend, just incase you thought the ‘networking’ ended with the close of business 😉
We decided to pay a visit to London this year to check out Clerkenwell Design Week 2017, and we weren’t disappointed. Here’s a highlight of what was on.