Join our designer Andreia on her journey to Clerkenwell Design Week 2023! Get inspired and learn all about the latest design trends in this must-read article.
I embarked on a visit to Clerkenwell Design Week to immerse myself in a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. From the buzzing atmosphere to the diverse range of exhibitors, workshops, and installations, it was a stimulating experience, igniting my imagination and providing a fresh perspective on design possibilities. Here’s what I captured from the event.
Sustainability is the bare minimum
In this current climate (pun intended), companies are increasingly embracing sustainability as a core value, showing a deep concern for materials and their impact on the environment. What I saw at several showrooms were brands actively incorporating recycled materials into their products, reducing the demand for raw materials. They are also finding innovative ways to reuse waste generated by various industries, transforming it into new materials that serve new purposes.
What’s more, a lot of exhibitors prioritise the full life cycle of their products, considering how they will be disposed of and striving to minimise their environmental impact. By adopting such sustainable practices, these companies are not only demonstrating their commitment to the planet but also setting an inspiring example for others to follow.
Orange is the new neutral
Shades of orange, yellow, red and green seemed to dominate several designs. From 2021 until now, the colour-of-the-year has been mostly vibrant and happy (2021 had a bright and cheerful yellow; 2022 chose a blue hue with a vivid violet-red undertone; and 2023 is time for magenta). It’s no secret that in recent times, we’ve been focused on creating an atmosphere of warmth and cosiness.
Possibly in response to the pandemic, people were craving that connection with nature resulting in a surge in the popularity of furniture pieces that exude natural elements. Vibrant hues mimic the colours found in nature, evoking a sense of vitality and rejuvenation much needed to unwind and find solace amidst the challenges of the modern world.
Made just for you
Planet Earth can’t support consumerism at this scale. Some companies are reducing the manufacture of mass-produced items and instead prioritising the uniqueness and personality of each piece or project.
It's all about creating spaces that truly reflect our tastes and lifestyles. No more cookie-cutter furniture; we want pieces that speak to who we are. By incorporating different textures, materials, and finishes, we can make a space our own and create that special connection between ourselves and our environment.
Now, as much as I loved all the amazing designs and ideas at the Clerkenwell Design Week, there's still one main challenge we need to tackle: making sustainability more affordable and accessible for everyone. It's great that there's a growing demand for eco-friendly options, but consuming them is more of a luxury rather than a norm. We need businesses, policymakers, and consumers to come together and find ways to scale up sustainable options and make them more affordable for all.
All in all, my visit to the Clerkenwell Design Week was such an inspiring experience. Needless to say that wherever I visit these exhibitions, my favourites are always the colourful installations and jaw-dropping innovative materials. That’s sustainable design turning heads and saving our planet one product at a time.
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