What to expect from London: Clerkenwell Design Week 2023 Forecast

Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) comes back live, to EC1, on 23-25 May 2023. The 12th edition of this festival will showcase various revolutionary products for your modern design projects. The program is set to feature more than 600 events and would be merging with Design London, its sister show, for the first time.

The festival openly celebrates London’s artistic kink with more than 130 resident showrooms, over 200 exhibitors, and 300 design brands which would be covering furniture, bathrooms, kitchens, materials, surfaces, textiles, decorative, accessories and lighting. Additionally, 130 local showroom partners are ready for workshops, host product launches.

A total of 12 exhibition venues at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023

  • Design Fields – International furniture and interiors brands
  • Contract – Commercial interiors
  • Light – International lighting brands
  • Project – Workplace furniture and solutions
  • Elements – Architectural hardware and finishes
  • British Collection – British interiors brands
  • Detail – Luxury interiors
  • Platform – Emerging design talent
  • Old Sessions House – Brand pop-ups and activations
  • Ceramics of Italy – Italian tile brands
  • (NEW) The Garden – Outdoor furniture
  • (NEW) Catapult – Contemporary design for office, hospitality and retail.

At the Gateway

Clerkenwell Design Week presents an installation by British artist Steve Messam who is known for his large-scale artwork. County Durham-based artist will bring his unique public art – sponsored by the popular 3D design software company, SketchUp. Another site-specific art piece, will feature 27 giant spikes hand-sewn in a striking blue textile, all of which is a part of Messam’s ongoing art series.

In addition, one can experience Messam’s artistic take on the iconic telephone boxes – sponsored by Budvar. K6 was originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott for the coronation of George V in 1935, while K2 – also designed by Scott in 1924 – was the first national telephone box, many of which were initially installed in the neighbourhood. Spread over three locations, this installation can be found on Clerkenwell Road as well as outside St James’s Church.

Sustainability power

As part of the CDW Presents series, SYMBIOCENE LIVING: Mycelium Building Block made of mycelium installation and 3D-printed timber shell lets human engagement with fungi architecture. The blocks, which are similar in size to a watermelon – will be arranged to create a different formation.

East London-based PLP Architecture’s installation will be placed outside Clerkenwell & Social on St John’s Square.

Over at Old Sessions House, Heiter X – a sustainable food design and experience studio founded by Helis Heiter will launch its first collection of sculptural tableware. In collaboration with Krohwin, the collection serves as a visual reminder of the need for more food conscious consumption and waste reduction. It will be presented alongside Terra Firma, an edible tablescape.

Furthermore, Recork’s stand at CDW will feature its latest rug collection in partnership with Portuguese brand Sugo Cork Rugs.

The Monkey Puzzle Tree (Light), founded by former textile buyer Charlotte Raffo showcases creativity from the North of England, by collaborating with Yorkshire artists to locally design and produce fabrics and wallpapers.

Hit The North, featuring artwork by graphic artist Drew Millward which will be printed onto sustainable Portuguese cork.

Other highlights:

Ercol (British Collection)
Kirkby Design (Detail)
Morph (Project)
AllSfär (Project)
Parkside (Showroom)
Vepa (Showroom)

Must-Visit Showrooms during Clerkenwell Design Week 2023

🡲 Furniture

Starting off with the big ‘F’, furniture – ACTIU, a leading Spanish furniture for workspaces, hospitality, and home offices has showrooms across the globe, including London. During Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, ACTIU will launch three products in their London showroom. The A+S WORK chair, designed by Marcelo Alegre, combines two existing tilting systems and features a patented synchro mechanism for enhanced user posture. The QYOS acoustic pods, designed by Actiu’s R+D+i team, offer modular, intuitive assembly and promote well-being in open and collaborative spaces. Lastly, Tubbe is a flexible and lightweight modular shelving system that showcases a tubular design element. These products reflect Actiu’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and creating functional solutions for workspaces. Alongside, a talk titled ‘ The impact of AI in designing space typologies/spaces’ will be moderated by Cristina Mateo from IE School of Architecture and Design. Speakers include Jennifer Durand from Zaha Hadid Architects; Gilles Retsin, an architect and designer, and Manuel Jiménez García, the Co-founder and CEO of Nagami. Soledat Berbegal Roque, Advisor and Brand Reputation Manager at Actiu, will provide closing remarks. ACTIU will also host social events on their premises. To those who fancy a cool, Mediterranean vibe, you can register for the talks Paella and Sangria events, visit here: https://actiu.typeform.com

Popular office furniture manufacturer, Andreu World will focus on the future of the workplace and the circular economy during Clerkenwell Design Week 2023. Tuesday, 23rd May at 5:00 pm, Andreu World shall host a Panel Discussion on ‘Designing Wellbeing at Work’ with Works Magazine (RSVP here).Thursday, 25th May at 5:00 pm, will witness the Andreu World showroom turning into a space of discussion for a panel talk on ‘Neurodiversity at Work’ with WOD (Women in Office Design) (RSVP here).

Allermuir has a trodden on a path untaken with a novel ‘Book a Bag’ Concierge Service. Visitors can drop their bags, discover the showroom and Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, and avail breakfast, lunch and drinks to replenish themselves. To quickly ‘bag’ this opportunity, those interested can RSVP Cheryl Holcroft at [email protected]

British furniture maker, Bisley, will unveil its new Home Space showroom at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, showcasing their range of products for both home and work environments. A notable highlight will be the collaboration with interior design writer and stylist Cate St Hill, who will curate an installation featuring Bisley’s Fern collection of steel lockers and new additions like the Reef wall-mounted shelf. The showroom aims to promote well-being and uplift moods, offering a diverse range of furniture and storage solutions. Additionally, Bisley will showcase their office furniture collection, including the versatile Outline range, stylish Bridge configurations, and a range of locker solutions such as the Kubbi range and the customizable LockerWall system, which incorporates the latest smart locking technology developed in collaboration with Keynius.

At the Old Sessions House, Humanscale‘s Path – the most sustainable chair in the world – will be exhibited in an installation at the picturesque setting of yesteryear UK’s largest courthouse, referenced in Dickens’ Oliver Twist. Humanscale Design Director Todd Bracher and other eminent design professionals like Tom Dixon and Yinka Ilori will speak at the ‘ICON at 20’ talk programme to commemorate ICON magazine’s 20th anniversary. Those keen to attend the talk must act quickly and book their slots at eventbrite.co.uk.

Senator will display its latest products, punctuated by breakfast, lunch, and drinks through all three days at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023.

Teknion is offering a series of curated talks and experiences at their London venue during Clerkenwell Design Week, focusing on health, wellness, and the future of workplace design. The WELL 2023 talk (May 23rd;11.30am – 1pm), led by Tracy Backus and Annette Barrelet from Teknion, explores the impact of flexible work arrangements on users and buildings. Suzanne Tick, Creative Director of Luum, will present a “What Now?”—a visually inspirational talk on wellness and creativity (23rd May; 3pm – 4.30pm). Phil Pond from Scarlet Opus Limited (May 24th; 11.30am – 1pm) provides insights into future design trends and rethinking our approach to design in the Future Trends Seminar. The Power Women in Design panel talk (24th May; 4.30pm – 7pm) showcases successful female designers in the office design sector. Lastly, forpeople’s Joohee Lee will discuss how creativity brings visionary ideas to life in the Design For People talk (25th May; 11.30am – 1pm). Participants can also engage in a weaving session led by Suzanne Tick, immersing themselves in Luum’s core practice (25th May; 3-5pm).

During Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, Wilkhahn will feature ‘Decide’ – a new conference swivel chair range offering revolutionary 3D comfort, and Timetable Lift Additions – a mobile, battery-operated hybrid collaboration solution that includes a flip-top table doubling as a magnetic whiteboard, along with features like monitor mounts for video conferences, wireless charging, and cable management. Yonda Lounge with tray and castors, part of the sustainable and comfortable Yonda chair family will also be displayed at the showroom, which will be alive with cocktail hours and networking events.

🡲 Sanitary

Sanipex Group is excited to showcase its Bagnodesign Architecture & Design Gallery at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023. Spanning two floors and 200 square metres, the gallery provides a toolkit for architects, designers, and specifiers to gather inspiration for their projects. Visitors can explore the latest product launches, including the elegant Chiasso brassware collection and the stunning Sestriere range with marble porcelain inserts. The gallery also features an entertainment area, bar, and meeting room for networking and planning future projects. It is a must-visit destination for design professionals seeking innovative bathroom designs. With its strategic location in London’s design district, the Bagnodesign A + D Gallery at 119 Charterhouse Street offers a vibrant and immersive experience for visitors during Clerkenwell Design Week 2023.

Situated at the bustling centre of Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, the Ideal Standard Design and Specification Centre in London will be the hub for showcasing cutting-edge bathroom designs. In addition to the exhibition, Ideal Standard will host an evening of cocktails and organise a ceramic tile decorating event on Wednesday 24th, followed by lively DJ performances on the 25th of May from 2pm to 4pm.

🡲 Flooring

Ege Carpets showroom in London will turn into a bustling event hub during Clerkenwell Design Week 2023. Every day between 9:00 am to 11 am, visitors can treat themselves to coffee and Danish pastries while experiencing the cosy and inviting Hygge feeling. Between 3:00 to 4:00 pm, there is a cupcake decorating and afternoon tea session where enthusiasts can learn the art of piping and decoration. In the Ege Carpets Showroom (on 24th and 25th May, 10 am – 1 pm and 2 pm to 5pm), Dyson will exhibit their innovative hair technology. On 23rd & 24th May, between 1 pm and 2 pm, Ege Carpets will host an in-house Lunch and Learn experience. Visitors shall learn about carpet design and recolouring, and also stand s chance to win a rug! Professional sleep therapist – Judy Clark, Sundowners and a workshop with Crown Paints will also be part of the itinerary.

At Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, Interface will display the Connect Ethos Collection song with a preview of Upon Common Ground at their showroom. Biophilic design strategist Victoria Jackson, well-being champion design Oliver Heath and Architects Climate Action Network will visit the premise for thoughtful talks and panel discussions. Dive into more details here: clerkenwelldesignweek.com/interface

Milliken‘s impressive three-storey London showroom during Clerkenwell Design Week. Located will showcase new collection launches, and offer tours of the UK’s only Platinum WELL Certified showroom. On May 23rd, visitors can participate in mindful drawing and slow looking workshops with artist Liz Atkin, focusing on tactile and sensory approaches to mark making. They can also discover the research findings on designing workspaces for neurodiverse individuals during an evening event. On May 24th, join Mindful Me for a workshop on the therapeutic power of nature and mindfulness. Be sure to explore Milliken’s latest carpet tile collections, including Sculptured Forms, Down to Earth, Continuation, and their first woven vinyl tile collection. Those to wish to RSVP, may jump to this link: clerkenwelldesignweek.com/milliken

Shaw Contract is set to deliver an engaging lineup of events at Clerkenwell Design Week 2023, and one of the highlights is the introduction of their closed-loop recycled carpet tile collection, New Path, featuring the eco-friendly Ecoworx S backing made in the UK. Attendees can also participate in talk sessions on ‘Non-adhesive workplace flooring, RIBA CPD’, ‘Inclusive environments and neurodiversity’ with Gillian Burgis-Smith – Architect and Neurodiversity Champaigner and ’ WELL Equity Rating and ESG considerations’ with Anne-Marie Aguilar, Senior Vice President International WELL Building Institute. The London Showroom will be open for professionals to connect and enjoy networking sessions with drinks in the evenings on Wednesday and Thursday. 

🡲 Acoustics

Hushoffice, a proud member of Haworth brands’ collection, will display their latest HushLock modular office storage at their showroom amongst their solid and benchmark-setting products like A11 Lounge and HushMeet Meeting Pod.

Brand Exhibits to Experience at Clerkenwell Design 2023

CBS will participate in Catapult venue at the event, displaying their latest products like the Flo X monitor arm, Monto, Oripura, Ollin, Ondo, and the CBS Ergonomics AR app. They will offer a preview of the upcoming Flo X multi-arm setup. In addition to product showcases, they will host Chair Yoga Sessions and Insight Seminars covering ergonomics concepts, new ways of working, ergonomic benefits, and screen technology trends. These sessions will be available throughout the day, providing visitors with the chance to attend and learn.

At the House of Detention in London, Impact Acoustic (booth P7, P8, and P18a) invites visitors to witness the brilliance of custom-made acoustic luminaires and be a part of the exclusive debut of their exciting new decorative lighting, created in collaboration with atelier oï.

A must-see is the exquisite Soft Blown collection from Lladró‘s Luca Nichetto at stall P10 in the Light Area, while enjoying the ambiance of the Firefly Bar located at stall P6.

Modern Craft to Marvel

Kostas Synodis (Platform), a London-based furniture designer and sculptor, will join the festival for the first time. He will exhibit a new foldable low deckchair.

Lighting brand Curiousa will present its new Wave chandelier – designed by its founder Esther Patterson. It features five hand-formed glass vessels threaded onto beams of light.

Jamie Hoyle and Katherine Mathew, Koda (British Collection) will bring in a reimagination writing desk as well as its walnut media unit to the festival.

To produce slip-cast ceramics and woodwork, Cornwall-based Studio Haran (Light) works closely with a team of local skilled craftsmen, some of which includes the Dawn pendant and wall light.

Kostas Synodis (Platform), a London-based furniture designer and sculptor, will join the festival for the first time. He will exhibit a new foldable low deckchair.

Lighting brand Curiousa will present its new Wave chandelier – designed by its founder Esther Patterson. It features five hand-formed glass vessels threaded onto beams of light.

Jamie Hoyle and Katherine Mathew, Koda (British Collection) will bring in a reimagination writing desk as well as its walnut media unit to the festival.

To produce slip-cast ceramics and woodwork, Cornwall-based Studio Haran (Light) works closely with a team of local skilled craftsmen, some of which includes the Dawn pendant and wall light.

A Line-up of Outdoor Furniture

Clerkenwell-based Jennifer Newman Studio will have an exclusive installation in St John’s Square focusing on outdoor terrace products. They are all set to reintroduce its classic Alfresco bench and Huddle table. 

Italian company Ethimo will showcase its 2023 collection, which includes their in-house designed ‘Bold table’, as well as a series of concrete vases named Bulbi by Studiopepe.

Case Furniture will display its Eos outdoor collection by Matthew Hilton, its Danish twin, Norr11 (Showroom) is set to launch the new outdoor editions of its widely acclaimed Studio sofa and Hippo lounge chair.


Related Articles