Interior Design Event: WOW!house Returns to Chelsea Harbour - an Immersive Showcase Bringing Design Concepts to Life

Homeowners often struggle to visualise new design ideas, even when presented with detailed mood boards or high-quality renderings. While these tools are helpful, nothing compares to experiencing a design concept in a real-life setting.

That’s exactly what WOW!house offers. Running this month through to 3 July 2025 at the Design Centre, Chelsea Harbour, London, the event presents an unparalleled opportunity to explore fully-realised interiors brought to life by some of the world’s leading interior designers.

WOW!house features 22 meticulously designed rooms and outdoor spaces, each created in collaboration with globally recognised design brands and suppliers. These full-scale environments—constructed within the Design Avenue—offer visitors a rare chance to walk through, feel, and truly experience design concepts as they would appear in a real home.

Starting at the newly reimagined classical façade, visitors enter a 600-square-metre show-house that offers an immersive exploration of luxury interior design at its finest. 

For those seeking to understand how creative concepts evolve into fully realised spaces, WOW!house serves as the ultimate source of inspiration.

 The Façade, by Darren Price of ADAM Architecture, introduces a refined classical character to this year’s WOW!house. It is accompanied by a beautifully planted Entrance Garden and a lush Garden Terrace, created by garden designer Alexander Hoyle.  The  façade design takes its cues from the elegance of a Georgian townhouse, featuring handmade cornices and heritage-style lighting. However, this is no period pastiche. Instead, it offers a contemporary reinterpretation of classical architecture—“a demonstration that the timeless language of classicism remains as relevant and inspiring today as it was 250 years ago.”

The Entrance Hall, designed by Victoria Davar of Maison Artefact, evokes the grandeur of a French château. To create a sense of scale and drama, Davar raised the ceiling height to five metres and introduced a floating staircase by Excel Stairs, suggesting the presence of an upper floor and rooms beyond.  At the heart of the space are striking sculptural pieces by room sponsor Cox London—the renowned furniture, lighting, and art studio. Taking centre stage is the show-stopping Oak Leaf chandelier, a dramatic focal point that sets the tone for the elegance to follow.

The Fromental Drawing Room, designed by Texas-based Chad Dorsey, exudes the atmosphere of an exclusive private club. A bespoke Strike fireplace, sumptuous furnishings, and a raised ceiling adorned with statement chandeliers set a tone of understated luxury. The space is wrapped in Kiku—a series of exquisite hand-painted panels by room sponsor Fromental—bringing artistry and depth to every surface. Natural motifs are thoughtfully echoed in both the chandeliers and the decorative ceiling wallcovering, creating a harmonious and immersive environment.

The Media Room, designed by Alex Dauley, offers an intimate, cocooning retreat in rich tones of amber, walnut, and antique brass. The atmosphere is relaxed yet refined—both sophisticated and sensuous.   Created in collaboration with sponsor Nucleus, renowned for crafting immersive environments, the space is a sanctuary of texture and contrast. Thoughtfully layered materials highlight the harmony between craftsmanship and comfort, while discreetly integrated surround sound speakers ensure a seamless and enveloping audio experience.

Designer Brigitta Spinocchia Freund, in collaboration with STARK, presents the Curator’s Room—integrating two connecting rooms - that celebrates collectible furniture, fine art, and exceptional artisanal craftsmanship. With a strong focus on female creative talent across generations, the room highlights influential women in art and design from the past, present, and future.  Visually striking and richly tactile, the space is both a tribute and a showcase, honouring the enduring impact of women’s contributions to the creative world.

The Primary Bedroom, designed by Tomef Design, transports visitors into the master suite of a luxurious Venetian hotel, where layers of detail, colour, pattern, and texture come together in perfect harmony.  The palette is rich and inviting, with deep burgundy and ruby tones accented by gold, amber, brown, black, and varied shades of green—evoking a sense of tradition and timeless elegance.  Tommaso Franchi, founder of Tomef Design, has partnered with three of Italy’s most revered heritage brands: renowned fabric house Fortuny, handcrafted rattan specialists Bonacina, and master glassmakers Barovier & Toso. Together, they have created a space that beautifully celebrates the artistry and legacy of Italian craftsmanship.

The adjoining Primary Bathroom by 1508 London is a contemporary sanctuary dedicated to ancient cleansing rituals, sponsored by House of Rohl.

Next door, the Morning Room features soaring ceilings and walls dressed in cotton poplin, hand screen-printed with a trompe-l'œil design inspired by 20th-century garden room treillage.  Interior designer and antique dealer Daniel Slowik has curated an elegant collection of paintings, furniture, and objets d’art sourced from exhibitors at The Treasure House Fair—the prestigious summer art fair founded by Thomas Woodham-Smith and Harry Van der Hoorn, which also sponsors the room.

The Courtyard Room, designed by Emma Sims-Hilditch, is a charming blend of classic elegance and playful practicality. Conceived as a refined back-of-house space, it seamlessly combines form and function with thoughtful features such as a boot room and a dedicated dog room.  Antiques, fine art, decorative wall finishes, and carefully considered architectural details lend the room a sense of history and permanence—creating the impression of a newly built space that feels as though it has always belonged.

The Living Room, designed by interior designer Kelly Hoppen, is a masterclass in tactile sophistication—moody, unexpected, and richly layered. Created in collaboration with lighting specialists and room sponsor Visual Comfort & Co., the space strikes a delicate balance between beauty and function.  Hoppen’s earthy palette of deep browns, terracottas, and soft neutrals evokes a sense of warmth, comfort, and tranquility. Natural materials—such as wood, honed stone, rose quartz, suede, and linen—enhance the room’s grounded elegance. “The room blends asymmetry, history, and personal storytelling,” said Hoppen, bringing a deeply personal narrative to a serene and thoughtfully composed space.

The Library offers an experience that celebrates both the power of silence and the expression of sound. This extraordinary circular space is the creation of Clémence Pirajean Lees and James Michael Lees, founders of the creative direction and design studio Pirajean Lees, in collaboration with the Italian fabric house Dedar, the room’s sponsor.  The room is wrapped in Dedar’s sumptuous wool satin, while the rug—crafted by Jennifer Manners—transforms A440Hz, the musical tuning standard, into a visible and striking pattern, blending artistry with sound.

In contrast, the Dining Room is a vibrant feast of colour inspired by Australia. Designed by Australian-born, London-based designer Peter Mikic and sponsored by Benjamin Moore, a leading manufacturer celebrated for its premium-quality paints, the space bursts with energy and character.  Dominating the room is an abstract artwork by Billy Metcalf, paired with a bespoke round dining table by British furniture brand Kaizen, adorned with semi-precious stones—adding a touch of luxurious craftsmanship to the bold, colourful setting.

The final space at WOW!house is the Garden Terrace, designed by Randle Siddeley and sponsored by McKinnon and Harris. Enclosed by an ornate trellis, meticulously handcrafted for the space by The Garden Trellis Company, the terrace features a striking stone fireplace framed by a lush green wall that serves as a focal point. Surrounding this, intimate seating areas are embraced by vibrant greenery, creating a serene oasis.

One of the best ways to experience WOW!house and deepen one's understanding of the creativity behind the rooms is by joining a complimentary guided tour that goes with the entry ticket. Visitors gain exclusive insights into how world-class designers transformed their concepts into spectacular, fully realised spaces. 

also troughout the month, there is a talks programme featuring many of the WOW!house designers who provide deeper insight into the creative intentions behind the rooms and the collaborative processes that brought the schemes to life.  

For the programme of WOW!Talks, click HERE.

As a dedicated centre for luxury interiors, the Design Centre is celebrated for its distinctive architectural style—modern, elegant, and designed to maximise natural light. Its main building is arranged around a central atrium, creating an inviting and uplifting environment for all who visit.

Originally part of a wider regeneration project transforming Chelsea Harbour from a commercial dock into a vibrant district, the Design Centre has become an international destination for sourcing the finest interior products and exploring the latest design trends. It is widely recognised as one of the country's if not the world’s foremost design destinations.

All images by Lucia Carpio.

Technical Fabric News: eVent® Fabrics Unveils Plant-Based Circular Collection to Drive Sustainable Innovation in Outdoor Textiles

eVent® Fabrics, a global leader in breathable, waterproof, and windproof textile laminates based in Kansas, USA, has announced the launch of its first fully circular fabric collection—marking a significant milestone in the company’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

The new collection, designed to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing technical performance, features 11 plant-based laminate configurations within eVent’s stormST™ and windstormST™ technology platforms. These fabrics are engineered with monomaterial construction to enable mechanical recycling and support closed-loop product systems.

“Circularity starts with design,” said Chad Kelly, President of eVent® Fabrics. “With these stormST and windstormST fabrics, we’re giving brands the building blocks to create products that are easier to recycle at end-of-life—without sacrificing technical performance.”

The circular collection aligns with the growing demand across the textile and apparel industry for sustainable, high-performance materials. It also positions eVent ahead of anticipated regulations, including the European Union’s forthcoming Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation, which will require brands to adopt more circular and eco-conscious materials in the near future.

eVent’s stormST™ fabrics provide breathable, waterproof protection ideal for outerwear, footwear, and accessories, combining high performance with a reduced environmental footprint. Meanwhile, windstormST™ fabrics offer lightweight, windproof protection with exceptional breathability—suited for dynamic outdoor and urban conditions. All fabrics in the collection are PFAS-free and carry certifications including bluesign®, Oeko-Tex®, and the Global Recycled Standard (GRS).

Founded in 1999, eVent® Fabrics pioneered the first air-permeable, 100% waterproof membrane and has remained at the forefront of textile innovation. Known for its trusted performance and breathability, the company continues to set industry benchmarks with technologies designed to help users defy the elements™—now with a sharper focus on circularity and environmental stewardship.

Interior Design News: British Interiors Brands Collaborate on Limited-Edition Paint Collection Unveiled at Clerkenwell Design Week 2025

Two prominent names in British interiors, Kirkby Design and COAT Paints, have launched a collaborative, limited-edition paint range, marking Kirkby Design’s debut in the paint sector. The new collection, unveiled during the 2025 Clerkenwell Design Week (May 20–22), introduces 12 bespoke shades tailored to pair with Kirkby Design’s latest textile line, HEIR.  

During Clerkenwell Design Week, Kirkby Design unveiled its new collections at Old Sessions House with a vibrant, contemporary display. 

Painted pillars and bold upholstery pieces formed the centrepiece of the stand, visually illustrating the concept behind the brand’s collaboration with COAT Paints. 

Visitors were able to see firsthand how the complementary and contrasting paint shades paired seamlessly with the HEIR textile range, bringing the collection’s layered, characterful aesthetic to life.

Rooted in the stately charm of British heritage interiors, the HEIR collection offers a modern reinterpretation of vintage design. Each fabric in the range is matched with two COAT Paints shades—one muted and complementary, the other bold and contrasting—intended to give homeowners and designers alike flexible options for layering tone and texture in interior schemes. Click HERE for details. 

Photo by Lucia Carpio

The resulting palette ranges from rich, saturated colours to refined neutrals. 

According to the brands, the combinations are designed to allow for both calm, tonal harmony and dramatic, high-contrast styling. The collaboration is positioned as a fusion of innovation and tradition, reflecting both companies’ shared emphasis on characterful design and sustainable practices.

Kirkby Design’s HEIR textiles
Photo by Lucia Carpio

Kirkby Design’s HEIR textiles feature a playful yet sophisticated aesthetic, evoking the idiosyncrasies of historic British estates through graphic geometrics, organic forms, and tactile finishes. Materials include cut and uncut velvets, soft chenilles, and dense weaves, many crafted from recycled or responsibly sourced yarns.

The collection channels what Kirkby describes as a "young royal vibe"—a nod to aristocratic whimsy and eclectic elegance—while remaining firmly rooted in contemporary design. Colour choices draw on regal jewel tones and retro hues, offering a visual narrative that bridges nostalgia and modernity.

Led by Brand Director Jordan Mould, Kirkby Design has gained recognition for its bold use of pattern and colour, as well as previous collaborations with cultural icons such as Transport for London and fashion label Eley Kishimoto. The brand operates under The Romo Group, a fifth-generation family business with a global footprint in textile and interior design markets.

The limited-edition paint collection is now available through COAT Paints and selected design retailers, offering a fresh resource for interiors that blend tradition with a twist.

Paris Trade Fair: Texworld and Apparel Sourcing Paris Return to Le Bourget in September 2025 with Renewed Focus on Sustainability and Innovation

Texworld and Apparel Sourcing Paris are set to return to the Paris-Le-Bourget Exhibition Centre from 15 to 17 September 2025, occupying Halls 2, 3 and 4. The shows will once again bring together Texworld Paris, Apparel Sourcing Paris, and their specialist offshoots Avantex and Leatherworld, forming a comprehensive sourcing platform for the international fashion industry, from ready-to-wear to luxury.

Organisers expect between 1,200 and 1,300 exhibitors at this autumn edition, which has returned to its traditional September slot to better align with buyers' schedules. The event layout will mirror that of the February 2025 edition, which was positively received by both manufacturers and fashion professionals.

Participation from key textile-producing countries is already confirmed. Exhibitors from China, India, Turkey, South Korea, Taiwan, and Hong Kong will be in attendance, underlining the continuing importance of the European market amid persistent US-China trade tensions. Interest from Central European garment producers is also said to be strong, and delegations from Armenia, Kyrgyzstan and Ukraine are expected to make notable appearances at Apparel Sourcing Paris, showcasing high-quality, skilled manufacturing.

As in previous editions, the fair will be organised into thematic zones, with dedicated spaces for women's fashion and activewear. These curated areas aim to create a smoother sourcing journey for visitors by linking textiles with finished products.

Sustainability and innovation remain central themes. Avantex, situated in Hall 2, will focus on sustainable sourcing and technological solutions for a more transparent, circular fashion industry. Highlights include the unveiling of findings from the Herewear European project, led by TCBL, which explores bio-based, locally produced textiles as a foundation for a regionalised European market. The programme will include keynotes, panel discussions, exhibitions, and workshops.

The 8th edition of the Avantex Fashion Pitch will also take place during the show, with finalists presenting to a jury comprising notable industry figures such as Carol Hilsum, Yoobin Jung, Jayne Simone Estève Curé, and Élodie Lemaire Nowinski. The event is held in partnership with IFA Paris and Messe Frankfurt’s Texpertise Network.

Leatherworld will return to Hall 4, adjacent to the Denim section, reinforcing the link between raw materials and finished garments. Also in Hall 4, the Initiatives by Texworld zone will spotlight the textile expertise of countries including Turkey—presenting a trend-focused area featuring leading weavers—and India, showcasing traditional embroidery techniques.

Organisers say this September’s edition reaffirms Paris’s position as a vital hub in the global sourcing calendar, blending international craftsmanship with forward-looking innovation and sustainability.

All images from Messe Frankfurt Paris.

Crafts Exhibition: Living Spirits: Celebrating the Timeless Artistry of the Bai People at London Craft Week 2025

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, the appreciation of authentic arts and crafts has become more vital than ever. As digital convenience dominates our daily lives, handcrafted traditions serve as grounding forces that reconnect us to our humanity, history, and the natural world. They embody values that are often overlooked in modern consumer culture — patience, skill, cultural continuity, and a respect for material and time. 

At the recently concluded London Craft Week, visitors had the opportunity to explore, engage with, and learn about remarkable handmade crafts from cultures around the world. Among them were the works of the Bai people from southwestern China, showcased under the evocative title "Living Spirits: Bai Craft and the Art of Nature." The exhibition, held at Cromwell Place, featured their intricate tie-dyeing, silverwork, woodcarving, ceramics, and metalwork — each piece a reflection of centuries-old traditions.

The Bai (白族, Báizú) are one of China’s 56 officially recognized ethnic groups, with a population of over 2 million, most of whom live in Yunnan Province, especially around Erhai Lake and the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture.  

The Erhai Lake is a large alpine lake (one of China's largest freshwater lakes), surrounded by Bai villages. It’s central to Bai culture, economy, and spirituality.  Dali is the cultural and historical hub of the Bai people. Once the capital of the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom (8th–9th century) and Dali Kingdom (10th–13th century).

Rooted in their Benzhu faith and shaped by the landscapes of mountains, rivers, and ritual, the Bai people carry within their traditions a deep reverence for the belief that all things possess spirit. This animistic worldview perceives stones, clouds, and water not as inert matter, but as living presences with whom one is in constant relationship. 

For the Bai, everyday craft becomes a medium for spiritual dialogue with nature, where artistry and reverence are inseparable.  Highlighted are the Bai people's skills in tie-dyeing, especially in Zhoucheng village near Dali.  They are also skilled in woodcarving, lacquerware, and silver jewellery.   

These crafts are not just decorative — they are deeply tied to Bai identity, aesthetics, and traditional knowledge passed down through generations, according to spokespersons at the exhibition. More than just an aesthetic experience, the exhibition invited audiences to appreciate the profound layers of identity, memory, and meaning embedded within these handcrafted objects.

Bai tie-dye is an indigo-resist dyeing technique. Every household in Zhoucheng is involved in some part of the tie-dye process — it's a living tradition.

Characteristics of the Bai tie-dyeing reveals a sharp, high-contrast design with rich texture and depth.  Patterns often appear fluid or blooming, owing to the handcrafted irregularity so each piece is unique.  Traditionally the finished fabrics are used for headscarves, aprons, skirts, wall hangings, altar cloths, now also for bags, scarfs, clothing, and home decor — especially popular with tourists and designers.

Bai embroidery plays a meaningful role in traditional clothing, ceremonial items, and cultural expression, particularly among women, who often learn these skills from a young age as part of their cultural upbringing.  Bai embroidery is typically hand-stitched, using silk or cotton threads on linen or cotton fabric. It features a mix of flat stitching, cross-stitch, and raised patterns, depending on the item and intended use.  Though less intricate than embroidery styles from some other Chinese ethnic groups (like the Miao or Zhuang), Bai embroidery emphasizes bold patterns, vivid colors, and symbolic motifs.

Dali Old Town and surrounding Bai villages (e.g., Xizhou, Shaxi) are known for their artisan silver workshops.  Silver is important in Bai ceremonial and wedding traditions.   The Bai silver artisans are known for hand-hammering and engraving silver pieces with great detail; using traditional tools and fire techniques to melt, cast, and mold silver and creating fine filigree, repoussé, and openwork. 

The Bai people’s wood carving tradition is a rich and refined craft that reflects their deep cultural roots, aesthetic sensibility, and spiritual beliefs. It is most visible in architecture, furniture, and ritual objects, particularly in and around Dali and the Erhai Lake region of Yunnan.  Bai wood carving is most famously used in residential architecture, particularly in the traditional “three rooms and one wall” courtyard homes.

The Living Spirits exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich world of Bai artistry and living cultural heritage. It is presented by YiCraft studio based in Camden, northwest London. Founded by Yiran, a member of the Bai ethnic minority, YiCrafts was born from her experience of the UK’s vibrant multicultural landscape — and her realization that the diverse traditions of China’s many ethnic minorities remain largely underrepresented abroad. Too often, China is perceived as a monolithic culture, overlooking the distinct identities within. Through workshops and an online retail space, YiCrafts seeks to share the unique handicrafts of the indigenous ethnic communities of southwestern China, celebrating their creativity, heritage, and continuing relevance.

Photos by Lucia Carpio

Exhibition of Crafts: Threading the Future: Saudi Craftsmanship Reimagined at London Craft Week 2025

London Craft Week 2025, held earlier this month, once again celebrated the very best of British and international creativity. The festival brought together over 1,000 established and emerging makers, designers, brands, and galleries from around the world. Audiences had the opportunity to explore the diversity of contemporary craftsmanship, materials, and techniques, while engaging with stories that spanned cultures and generations. 

Among the standout contributions was the Saudi Arabia Pavilion held at Cromwell Place in Kensington, which offered visitors an immersive and meaningful encounter with Saudi craftsmanship and heritage.

Entitled "Woven Whispers: Celebrating Threads of Legacy", the Saudi Pavilion spotlighted the timeless beauty and cultural depth of Sadu weaving, presented by the Heritage Commission of Saudi Arabia. This traditional Bedouin craft, historically practiced by women, transforms simple fibres into rich, geometric textiles that serve as living archives of Saudi identity. More than decorative, each design carries ancestral knowledge, personal stories, and social values—woven silently yet powerfully into every thread. The exhibition honoured these "soft storytellers" by presenting works that blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics, showcasing the enduring relevance of Saudi craftsmanship in contemporary design.

Saudi Arabia’s cultural legacy is deeply rooted in its diverse regions and nomadic heritage, where art and craft have long been essential forms of expression and identity. From intricate woodwork and palm weaving to metal engraving and ceramics, the Kingdom is home to a wide array of traditional crafts passed down through generations. Each craft reflects the environment, resources, and customs of its region, forming a rich tapestry of material culture. Today, efforts led by national initiatives like the Heritage Commission are not only preserving these crafts but also revitalising them—integrating age-old practices into modern design and encouraging global cultural exchange.

This exhibition focuses on the Sadu weaving, featuring a variety of traditional motifs, each rich with symbolic meaning:

Al-Shajarah, with its vertical lines, symbolises growth and balance;

Al-Dalee’ah, a symmetrical, vessel-like shape, is known for its rhythmic beauty;

Al-Mathkar, made of small, framed units, adds fine texture;

Hudub, with its mirrored lines, brings visual depth;

and Al-Habbah, a softly rounded pattern that creates gentle repetition across the fabric.

This remarkable collection was the result of a collaboration between two generations of artisans: Ghareeba Al-Enezi, a master weaver from the Hirfa Association in Buraidah, who embodies the essence of traditional craftsmanship, and Hanouf Al-Muqati, a young artist committed to preserving and sharing the Sadu legacy on a global stage. Together, they wove not only textiles, but stories of cultural continuity, creativity, and shared pride—each piece a poetic expression of welcome and a celebration of heritage crafted for the future.

Photos by Lucia Carpio

Crafts and Arts: London Craft Week 2025 Opens May 12th: A Global Celebration of Creativity

London Craft Week (LCW)  returns on May 12, 2025, bringing together over 1,000 established and emerging makers, designers, brands, and galleries from across the globe. With a sharp focus on substance over status, this year’s festival presents a curated showcase that prizes authenticity, skill, and a touch of magic—the spark that elevates craft to art.

As always, LCW offers a unique opportunity to experience craft not only as an aesthetic pursuit but as a cultural force—one that connects tradition, innovation, and global perspectives.

The headline event for 2025 is Homo Faber, presented by the Michelangelo Foundation for Creativity and Craftsmanship, a non-profit institution based in Switzerland, which champions contemporary craftspeople worldwide with the aim of promoting a more human, inclusive and sustainable future.

More than just an exhibition, Homo Faber is an international cultural movement dedicated to championing master artisans and nurturing the next generation of craftspeople. Through a combination of education programmes, a biennial celebration, and an engaging digital platform, Homo Faber honours the diversity of craftsmanship and the evolving stories of makers, materials, and techniques around the world.

Battersea Power Station - 

Where Angels Live

London Craft Week and FiredUp4 present the second edition of Secret Ceramics, making its debut at Christie’s London.

This unique exhibition and sale features over 100 ceramic vessels created by both leading and emerging artists—all offered anonymously. Buyers won’t discover the maker’s identity until after their purchase, adding an element of intrigue and discovery.  Featured celebrated artists icludes Claudia Rankin, Hitomi Hosono, Bouke de Vries, Freya Bramble Carter, Kate Malone, Gregory Tingay, and Sophie Wilson, among others

All works are sold at a fixed price, with proceeds supporting the annual running costs of four FiredUp4 ceramic studios across London. These studios provide young people from disadvantaged backgrounds with meaningful access to clay, creativity, and community.

For the first time, London Craft Week will take over No. 9 Cork Street with a curated series of exhibitions that reimagine heritage craft through the lens of contemporary art and design.

This specially selected programme showcases exceptional material intelligence and creative collaboration. Highlights include a group presentation by Béton Brut, featuring works by Grace Prince and David Horan’s innovative ‘vegan vellum’ pieces.

A striking collaboration between marbling artist Nat Maks and furniture maker Sebastian Cox will explore the ancient Japanese technique of Suminagashi, transforming it into a series of contemporary tables.

Other standout installations spotlight leading studios and makers such as YALI Glass, AOI, Bocci, and Brodie Neill Studio, working with materials including straw marquetry, hand-blown glass, and reclaimed timber.

Louis Vuitton - 

The Craftsmanship of the Capucines Bag - will be featured on Sloane Street

Sloane Street Series: The Art of Craftsmanship

One of London’s most prestigious addresses, Sloane Street—a verdant boulevard lined with flagship boutiques, world-class restaurants, and luxury hotels—has recently undergone a £46 million transformation.  As part of London Craft Week, the newly revitalised Sloane Street becomes the setting for a curated journey into the world of exceptional craftsmanship. From the meticulous attention to detail in the new streetscape to the artisanal mastery behind the world’s most iconic luxury houses, visitors are invited to explore the art behind the craft.

Highlights include a behind-the-scenes, architect-led tour of the street’s transformation; live demonstrations at Ferragamo, showcasing refined Italian shoemaking techniques; an evening celebrating diamond craftsmanship at Jessica McCormack; an exploration of Gucci’s silk artistry legacy; and a look at the heritage of FENDI’s Selleria leatherwork; plus more from Louis Vuitton, Emilia Wickstead, Temperley London, L’Objet, …At Sloane and others.  

The Malaysia Handicraft Development Corporation presents "Virtuosity of Craftwork:
Masterpieces of National Heritage Crafts." 

The Pimlico Road Series: A Celebration of Craft and Creativity

Renowned for its timeless elegance and creative spirit, the Pimlico Road Design District brings together a fraternity of world-class artisans, makers, and curators. Nestled in Belgravia—just a short stroll from Chelsea, Victoria, and Knightsbridge—Pimlico Road has long been a go-to destination for discerning designers and collectors, offering a rich tapestry of interiors, antiques, and contemporary craft.  This year’s Pimlico Road Series shines a spotlight on the district’s vibrant community of talent, from sculptors and woodworkers to embroiderers, textile artists, and crystal specialists. It’s a melting pot of inspiration, where tradition and innovation meet.  The programme highlights include a hands-on block printing workshop at Edward Bulmer Natural Paint; a behind-the-scenes look at custom cushion and lampshade making at Robert Kime; an artisan-focused exhibition at Cox London, celebrating handcrafted excellence, a special event at Collier Webb, marking 100 years of Art Deco, and the debut of new lighting collections from Ochre and Soane Britain.

International Pavilion: Thailand at the Royal Thai Embassy

A highlight of this year’s programme is the International Pavilion: Thailand, hosted at the Royal Thai Embassy in London, presenting the exhibition "Chud Thai Through the Ages: Weaving History, Craft, and Identity".

Marking the 170th anniversary of Thailand–UK diplomatic relations, this captivating showcase explores the evolution of Thai dress as a reflection of cultural heritage, craftsmanship, and national identity.

At its heart is an extraordinary display from Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari’s private costume collection, featuring both traditional Thai national costumes and contemporary fashion pieces, offering a rare glimpse into Thailand’s rich textile traditions through the lens of royal patronage and modern design.

Also not to be missed are International Pavilions of  Saudi Arabia, South Korea, China and Malaysia.

Also featured on the programme is Battersea Power Station, one of London’s most dynamic cultural and lifestyle destinations, drawing over 26 million visitors since opening to the public in 2022. Recognised by National Geographic as one of the “Top 20 Best Cultural Hotspots” in the world, the riverside neighbourhood now hosts more than 150 shops, bars, restaurants, and leisure attractions, alongside a vibrant year-round events calendar that includes the Light Festival, celebrASIA, and Christmas at Battersea Power Station.

For London Craft Week 2025, Battersea Power Station continues its commitment to accessible art and culture with Modern Masters—a public realm programme created in partnership with cultural placemaking agency New Public. Now in its second year, this free outdoor art series spotlights the craftsmanship and innovation behind contemporary art. This year’s featured artist is filmmaker and multimedia visual artist Charlotte Colbert, whose monumental installations Dreamland Sirens and Where Angels Live will be exhibited in the historic turbine halls from 23 April to 1 June. Exploring themes of identity, dreams, and self-reflection, Colbert’s surreal works resonate with the spirit of Radiant Reflections, the Power Station’s Spring/Summer 2025 fashion campaign celebrating body positivity and inner beauty.

For more information on the programme, click HERE.

All images from London Craft Week website.

Design, Lifestyle and Interiors: Clerkenwell Design Week Returns May 20 - 25 2025

London’s annual Clerkenwell Design Week is back from May 20 - 22 2025, celebrating its 14th edition with its largest programme to date.

CDW is a distinctive platform for showcasing leading interior brands and emerging talents, with a wide-ranging programme of showroom events, curated exhibitions, installations, as well as informative discussions, design hotspots, fringe events, culinary delights, and more. 

Spread across the district's exhibition venues, the event curates a global array of furniture, lighting, textiles, surfaces, accessories, and product design, solidifying its status as the UK's premier design festival.

The allure of Clerkenwell - London EC1 -  lies in its fusion of historical heritage and contemporary flair. Characterized by cobblestone streets, repurposed warehouses, and industrial edifices transformed into modern workspaces and galleries, the district exudes an inspiring ambiance. 

This year CDW introduces three stunning new venues for the festival: the historic Charterhouse, the iconic St Bartholomew the Great, and Studio Smithfield, a creative space above the legendary Smithfield Market.

A standout feature will be a major public artwork by British artist Alex Chinneck, installed in Charterhouse Square, alongside outdoor living displays and curated talks. Inside the Charterhouse, top design names like Geberit, Colefax & Fowler, and Victoria + Albert Baths will showcase their latest collections.

Over 350 design brands will exhibit across 16+ venues and 160+ showrooms, including Roche Bobois, Ercol, Kasthall, and Ultrafabrics, with talks, workshops, and product launches throughout. Returning favourites like Design Fields, British Collection, and Light will host global talent, while the new Church of Design venue will stage a special programme by US design publisher Sandow.

“We’re thrilled to be back in Clerkenwell this May with our largest programme yet, both in scale and content,” says Marlon Cera-Marle, Design Division Director at Media 10, the organiser of the annual design festival. “The new venues, including some of London's most historic landmarks, will provide a stunning backdrop for presenting some of the world’s most exciting design brands. We’re also partnering with incredible international names, from country pavilions to leading media outlets from the UK and US.”

Cera-Marle adds, “This year, we’re especially excited to announce one of our headline features: a surreal public artwork by the acclaimed British artist Alex Chinneck. As one of the most attended specification events on the A&D calendar, CDW 2025 will once again serve as a platform for discovering new trends, talent and ideas. We look forward to sharing more details about the programme in the coming months.”

Visitors can also enjoy exclusive food, drinks, and guided design tours, plus a brand-new interactive map to help navigate EC1 with ease.

The New Venues:

Dating back to the 14th century, The Charterhouse is a historic complex of buildings, courtyard gardens and green spaces reflecting over 600 years of British history. This May, this heritage site will serve as a striking backdrop for contemporary furniture, decorative lighting and luxury finishes. It will feature an array of global bathroom brands, from Geberit and Toto to Bette, C.P. Hart and Victoria and Albert Baths.

Also joining them will be British fabric and wallpaper company Colefax and Fowler. In addition to design brands, the venue will host Conversations at Clerkenwell, the festival’s official talks series. For 2025, the talks will take place in a theatre designed by the London-based design studio Kapitza, known for its colourful public art installations for British Land, wayfinding designs for the Royal London Hospital, as well as public and leisure architecture projects. 

Outside, Charterhouse Square will showcase products for outdoor living and hospitality, alongside Alex Chinneck’s new sculpture. 

Studio Smithfield is a 27,000-square-foot Grade II* listed building above Smithfield Market, Studio Smithfield is a new creative event space and will be home to commercial and workplace interior brands during CDW, including Houzz Pro and Bandalux.

Church of Design is set within St Bartholomew the Great, a 900-year-old Grade I listed medieval church, Church of Design will offer a breathtaking setting for modern design showcases. 

In addition to the new venues, existing locations will house a variety of product-focused exhibitions, including:

● Clerkenwell Green and Installations – Structural stone will take centre stage in the recently refurbished Clerkenwell Green, where Albion Stone and Hutton Stone will reveal a special new commission by Hawkins\Brown, demonstrating the durability and beauty of British stone bricks.

Nearby, the ambitious Stone Tapestry structure by the Stone Federation will be featured, along with showcases from exhibitors specialising in contract and workplace interior products and solutions.

● Project – Focused on contract furniture and surface design.

● Design Fields – Showcasing contemporary furniture, lighting and product design with an

international focus. The Design Meets talks series will also return, inviting representatives from

trade bodies and associations to engage in a range of intimate, industry-led discussions.

● Light – Home to global lighting companies. Darc Thoughts, Darc’s talks series, will also return.

● Elements – Dedicated to architectural hardware and finishes.

● British Collection – Taking over the whole of St James’s Church again and highlighting the best British design talent and brands.

● Detail – Featuring luxury interiors.

● Platform – Spotlighting emerging design talent and companies.

● Ceramics of Italy – Hosting Italian ceramic and porcelain tile brands at VaynerMedia’s headquarters on St John’s Square. This exhibition is organised by the Italian Trade Agency in collaboration with the Ceramics Association of Italy.

● Old Sessions House – Home to brand activations, presentations and the festival hub (free access for CDW visitors, 20 – 22 May).

● The Goldsmiths’ Centre – Presenting products for commercial and workplace interiors.

● Cowcross Pavilions and Brewhouse Yard – Both presenting leading commercial interiors from the UK and abroad.

For registration and more information click HERE. 

Images from CDW 2024