Clerkenwell Design Week (CDW) returns to London from May 21-23, 2024, offering an extensive program that cements its status as a premier international design festival. Free to all visitors, this year’s edition boasts an unparalleled array of exhibition venues, brands, showrooms, and installations. Here are five must-see attractions to add to your itinerary if you’re in town:

1. Innovative New Collections

Clerkenwell Design Week 2024 promises a feast of fresh designs and innovative collections. Highlights include:

Utzon stool from Fritz Hansen

• Fritz Hansen unveiling its new collection at the Cowcross Street showroom with the “Inviting Workspaces” exhibit, featuring furniture and accessories from designers like Jaime Hayon and Jørn Utzon.
• Domus on Great Sutton Street, presenting vibrant tile designs by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, celebrating a decade of collaboration with Mutina.
• SCP launching the Peonia armchair by Wilkinson and Rivera at St James’s Church, emphasizing sustainable, 100% natural materials.

2. Spotlight on Emerging Creatives

Clerkenwell Design Week’s tradition of championing new talent continues at Platform (70 Cowcross Street) with:

Image courtesy Isabel Francoy

• Selfish Customs showcasing homeware crafted from farming by-products.
• Manuela Cabrales introducing shawls, trousers, and handcrafted lamps made from materials like lotus fibre and orange peels.
• Isabel Francoy blending wicker weaving and glassblowing in her La Sobremesa collection.

3. Trend: The New Stone Age

Natural stone takes center stage, reflecting its resurgence in design:

‘Brick from a Stone’ installation on Clerkenwell Green by Albion Stone and Hutton Stone

• Spectra Stone at Old Sessions House, displaying an exclusive marble collection.
• ‘Brick from a Stone’ installation on Clerkenwell Green by Albion Stone and Hutton Stone, highlighting sustainable stone brick production.
• ‘Stone Tapestry: Beyond the Surface’ by Stone Federation and Squire and Partners, exploring the versatility and beauty of natural stone.

4. Trend: For the Love of Wood

Wood remains a key material at Clerkenwell Design Week 2024, especially in the British Collection:

Image courtesy Matthew Burt

• Benchmark presenting a new storage system developed with Foster + Partners.
• Matthew Burt showcasing timeless designs in a made-to-order service.
• Collinson and James UK introducing new furniture pieces celebrating classic craftsmanship and modern joinery.

5. Engaging Workshops and Events

Don’t miss the insightful discussions and hands-on experiences:

• Neurodiversity and Design: On May 22 at 14:00 in Spa Fields, a panel from Gensler, Squire and Partners, Pantone, and Seedlip’s founder will explore how multisensory design can enhance environments.
• LeftBrain’s Pop-Up Showroom: Featuring talks and AI-crafted cocktails at Second Home, with events themed around the future of digital workspaces.
• Live Installation by Archie Proudfoot: At Cult Vision on Goswell Road, witness a unique visual experience combining gold leaf and reflections.