Clerkenwell Design Week 2024: A DCA Design Team Retrospective
For the 10th consecutive year, the DCA design team immersed themselves in the vibrant and visionary atmosphere of Clerkenwell Design Week. Renowned for its avant-garde product design showcases, this year’s event also unveiled an array of exhibitions dedicated to textiles, tiles, and groundbreaking new materials. These exhibitions offered an intimate glimpse into the latest advancements and trends, emphasizing the creativity and technological innovations driving the future of industrial design.
Among the standout features of Clerkenwell Design Week, The British Collection was a beacon of high-quality craftsmanship, spotlighting the finest work from British designers and manufacturers. The collection included Riley, a coffee table by Dare, which captivated our design team with its meticulous craftsmanship and inventive use of layering and verticality. This clever design allows the upper table to function as either an extension or a standalone side table, embodying both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Benchmark, another highlight, stands as a testament to the UK’s furniture manufacturing prowess, seamlessly blending innovative design, exceptional craftsmanship, and a staunch commitment to sustainability. The OVO chair, crafted from solid oak, wool, and Sorensen Dunes Leather, exemplifies durability and timeless elegance through its use of natural, organic materials.
The Light exhibition, a perennial favourite of our team, was a feast for the senses. Beyond the exquisite products, the exhibition’s meticulously curated environment enhanced the overall experience. Immersive lighting displays, interactive installations, and thoughtfully designed spaces came together to create an inspiring atmosphere. Philips’ Spring Oasis, crafted from recycled water jugs, was a standout piece. These lamps, inspired by the raw beauty of their materials and the essence of water, utilized 3D printing technology to replicate the textures and colours of water jugs, creating a calming, natural ambience. This innovative design underscores the potential of recycled materials, transforming them into objects of serene beauty.
As the day drew to a close, our traditional social gathering provided a perfect opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and reconnect with former colleagues, clients, and friends. We eagerly anticipate our visit next year, looking forward to the chance to reconnect, explore, and engage with the inspiring experiences that Clerkenwell Design Week consistently offers.
