Ellie Langlands, one of our interior design tutors at the National Design Academy, recently attended the Decorex Design Show 2024 at London Olympia. The event showcased the latest in design innovation, where craftsmanship, heritage, and sustainability took centre stage. From ancient weaving techniques to state-of-the-art lighting designs, Decorex offered a wealth of inspiration for both aspiring and experienced designers alike. Ellie had the opportunity to immerse herself in everything from traditional crafts to cutting-edge design solutions. Let’s take a look at what stood out for her during this exciting visit!
Reviving an Ancient Craft: Tablet Weaving Workshop
One of the highlights of my visit was participating in an interactive tablet weaving workshop. This traditional technique, which dates back to the 8th century, was historically used to create belts and straps. As a beginner, it was an enriching experience to dive into a skill that connected me with designers from various sectors. We bonded over this lesser-known craft, which provided a tactile connection to history.
By the end of the workshop, I was proud to have completed my first tablet-woven piece, a slightly shaky but charming bookmark! The experience was not only fun and educational but also a reminder of how design can blend history and creativity in a hands-on way.
V&A: A Legacy of Timeless Design
The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) stand at Decorex showcased the museum’s vast collection of historical patterns, textiles, and designs. Known for its bold and intricate prints, the V&A collection is a treasure trove for designers looking to incorporate elements of history into contemporary interiors. The stand beautifully demonstrated how traditional patterns can be reinterpreted for modern settings, offering both residential and commercial spaces a sense of heritage and elegance.
As an interior design tutor, I was deeply inspired by the richness of the V&A’s offerings. The intricate details in their wallpapers and textiles are not only visually striking but also fun to work with, allowing designers to create bold and unique interior schemes.
Cameron Design House: Sculptural Lighting at Its Best
The Cameron Design House is synonymous with luxury lighting, known for its bespoke, sculptural installations. Their booth at Decorex was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing large-scale, handcrafted lighting pieces that command attention. These bold designs are often favoured by designers for high-end residential, commercial, and hospitality projects, adding an element of grandeur to any space.
What struck me most was the way Cameron Design House blends artistry with function, creating lighting pieces that are not just practical but also serve as statement sculptures in their own right.
Soho Lighting Company: Blending Tradition and Sustainability
Soho Lighting Company also made a strong impression with its commitment to sustainable craftsmanship. Known for their exquisite pendants, chandeliers, and wall lights, the brand merges traditional design with modern sustainability. As sustainability becomes an increasingly important aspect of commercial projects, Soho’s eco-conscious approach aligns perfectly with responsible design practices.
Personally, I was drawn to their focus on reducing waste and minimising environmental impact—a value that resonates with my own design philosophy. In today’s world, choosing sustainable brands is crucial for creating designs that are not only beautiful but also responsible.
Bert Frank: Where History Meets Modernity
The Bert Frank booth at Decorex was a visual treat. Set against a stunning backdrop of stained-glass windows, their contemporary lighting designs stood out in striking contrast to the historic setting. The juxtaposition of traditional elements with modern lighting made the display particularly memorable. I found myself inspired to sketch the space, capturing the interplay between the classic and the contemporary—an important theme in today’s interior design world.
Conversations on Sustainability: A Must Attend Feature
One of the most insightful parts of Decorex 2024 was the space dedicated to sustainability discussions. Throughout the event, experts shared valuable insights on topics like responsible sourcing, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and adopting circular design practices. One session that stood out was “Packaging with Purpose: Sustainable Alternatives,” which explored innovative ways to minimise waste and environmental impact through eco-friendly packaging solutions.
These conversations on sustainability are essential as we look toward the future of interior design. Designers are increasingly expected to consider the environmental impact of their work, and events like Decorex offer a platform to share ideas on how to create a greener, more responsible industry.
Final Thoughts
Decorex 2024 was an inspiring experience that reminded me of the importance of bridging the gap between heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability. From ancient weaving techniques to modern lighting masterpieces, the event showcased the diversity and creativity that makes interior design such a dynamic field. As I return to teaching, I look forward to sharing these insights with my students, encouraging them to embrace both the old and the new in their design journeys.
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