For anyone with an interest in new design, London Design Festival is a real treat. The largest collection of international design under one roof during the festival is London Design Fair, so I set out to explore new trends with the hope of finding a decent conscious edit. And I wasn’t disappointed. Actually, rather, impressed.
With many of the exhibitors being either Scandinavian or Asian there was a lot of stylish minimalism going on. Additionally, a strong focus on craftsmanship with a large section dedicated to the British Crafts Council. A wide selection of beautifully handmade products, with particular favourites being Elliot Ceramics‘ simple designs and stylish clay mixes.
I enjoyed the mix of old and new with long-time established companies like Karl Andersson & Söner, a family business founded in 1898, as well as the newer ones, like Forest + Found, a sustainable craft and design partnership.
Many exhibitors had an interesting story to tell in terms of their reasons for being and their passions, and even more designers were pushing their sustainability credentials.
An interest in, and a passion for, natural materials was widespread, and many are using innovative techniques and eco-conscious materials to create products that considers our planet. Stationery brand Before Breakfast presented notebooks made from FSC-certified paper, printed using soy based inks, and hand-sewn in the UK. And textile designer Carmen Machado specialises in woven fabrics for outdoor seating, created from stranded fishing gear that she collects from beaches in the UK and Puerto Rico. The stylish chairs shown in the picture above are by Bend, creator of products that are made to last, through timeless design and from locally sourced materials. Conscious thinking was also applied to some of the set design with Etsy.com‘s booth being built with materials that were sourced locally and that would be recycled or donated locally.
There wasn’t just a green focus in terms of materials but also in terms of displaying greenery, encouraging greener living through surrounding yourself with plants. The mix of plant stands and shelving units displaying plants was excellent.
Overall, the Fair showcased some great designs and the commitment to natural and sustainable products was a particular highlight. The products mentioned here are only a very small selection – do check out the website for loads more!