Clerkenwell: centre of the design universe

Clerkenwell Design Week, the most hotly anticipated event of the year for all design professionals and furniture lovers, is set to return to London between 22 and 24 May. Now in its ninth edition, the event takes place in Clerkenwell, one of the most vibrant and prominent design districts in the city. It’s also a chance to celebrate the unique identity of this buzzing area, which is home to 80 brands including Arper, Bolon, Bulthaup and Vitra, in addition to more than 200 architectural practices of the likes of Studio Egret, Howarth Tompkins and Wilkinson Eyre. Over the course of the three-day festival of design, the streets of Clerkenwell will bear witness to events, talks and workshops taking place in the various showrooms, while workshops and studios will open their doors to the public for the occasion.

There are seven exhibition spaces in total, all showcasing the best in show across different goods categories. Design Fields will shine a light on contemporary international design in Spa Fields, Platform in House of Detention will provide a platform for promising talent, Project will focus on contract design in the grounds of St James church, British Collection will display the best British designers in Clerkenwell’s Crypt on the Green and Detail is set to provide a snapshot of the luxury interior industry in St John crypt. The big new development for this year is Elements, located in St John’s square and showcasing architectural accessories, while Light – taking place in the renowned London nightclub Fabric – will celebrate the best in illumination systems.

The city will also see the arrival of interactive installations, gigantic street sculptures and displays that promote fun whilst also inviting the observer to reflect. And last but not least, Design Fields will play host to Conversations, with participation from Patrizia Moroso – the heart and soul of the Moroso brand – and Ola Rune, the designer behind Swedish practice Claesson Koivisto Rune.