Going underground with Kirkby Design

The article presents 'Underhill,' a unique four-bedroom house located near Holmfirth in the Peak District, which is primarily built underground. This property, described as a 'work of inhabitable art,' was conceived by architect Arthur Quarmby in 1969 and completed in 1975, marking it as Britain's first modern earth-sheltered home. It is currently listed for sale with Fine and Country, with offers in the region of £1.35 million. Underhill features four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and three reception rooms, offering a total of 3,929 sq ft of living space. A distinctive element of the home is its central swimming pool, around which the main living area, entrance hall, and music room are arranged. The property also includes 'the cave' and the four bedrooms are positioned in appendages extending from the central space. Despite its underground nature, the house appears well-lit, attributed to numerous skylights and large south-east-facing sliding glass doors. The interior is noted to be in excellent condition, equipped with modern conveniences and fittings, making it a 'turnkey' property despite its 1970s construction. The design of Underhill, described as a 'masterclass in geotecture,' allows it to blend seamlessly into the surrounding Peak District landscape. The external features of the property include an acre of gardens, which encompass the roof of the house. These gardens consist of large lawned areas, a rose garden, a vegetable patch, a shepherd's hut, and a paddock. Additionally, there is a double garage with an integrated studio. The article humorously suggests that the idea of living underground has become more appealing in recent times, highlighting the energy efficiency and potential for shelter offered by such a dwelling. The property challenges traditional notions of underground living, presenting a sophisticated and comfortable family home rather than a utilitarian shelter. Its design reflects the eccentricity often found in British architecture. The listing with Fine and Country provides further details and images for interested parties. The article highlights Underhill as one of the most unusual homes encountered by the author during their nine years at Country Life, emphasizing its unique architectural style and integration with its natural environment. #UndergroundHouse #PeakDistrictProperty #EarthShelteredHome #ArthurQuarmby #Geotecture #UniqueArchitecture #LuxuryRealEstate #ArchitecturalInnovation #BritishProperty

The home remodeling industry is witnessing a shift towards a more collaborative and personalized approach, with the emergence of design studios as a significant trend. Mosby Building Arts, a prominent player in this sector, recently launched The Mosby Studio in Kirkwood, Missouri, specifically designed to foster a one-on-one renovation experience for homeowners. This initiative is a response to the increasing demand for home remodeling and the challenges homeowners often face in navigating the complex construction industry. Mark McClanahan, president of Mosby Building Arts, emphasizes that The Mosby Studio serves as a dedicated space for conversation and creative exchange. Unlike traditional showrooms that present pre-selected products, the studio's philosophy centers on understanding the homeowner's vision first and then curating products to align with their specific ideas. This approach aims to empower homeowners by making them central to the design process, ensuring their preferences and needs are paramount from the initial stages of planning. The inspiration behind this new model stems from the common frustrations experienced by homeowners during renovation projects. McClanahan highlights that the construction industry frequently ranks among the top sectors for consumer complaints, largely due to the difficulties consumers encounter in understanding and managing the renovation process. The Mosby Studio endeavors to mitigate these challenges by offering a more transparent and accessible remodeling journey, thereby enhancing client satisfaction. Strategic location is another key aspect of Mosby's new design studio model. The initial Kirkwood location is part of a broader plan to establish more studios across the central corridor and further west. This expansion strategy is driven by the desire to be physically closer to clients, whether they reside in the city or surrounding county areas. Proximity allows for easier access to the studios and facilitates the crucial early step of visiting clients' homes to understand their living spaces and lifestyles, which is integral to Mosby's design philosophy. The Mosby Studio aims to transform the renovation experience into a curated process, where homeowners can meet with designers in an inspiring environment to collectively dream and plan their projects. By making the process more visible and accessible, Mosby Building Arts seeks to alleviate the strain often associated with home remodeling, especially in a market with high demand. This model suggests a future where home renovation is less about selecting from existing options and more about co-creating unique spaces tailored to individual needs and aspirations. #HomeRemodeling #DesignStudios #MosbyBuildingArts #HomeDesignTrends #ClientCollaboration #KirkwoodMissouri #ConstructionIndustry #PersonalizedRenovation

Clerkenwell Design Week 2025, held from May 20-22 in London, showcased a vibrant array of design innovations, installations, and product launches. The event, known for transforming commercial design into an engaging exhibition, utilized iconic venues such as the 14th-century Charterhouse, a new space in Smithfield Market, and the medieval St Bartholomew’s Church, dubbed ‘Church of Design’ for the occasion. The atmosphere was notably lively, attracting significant crowds across various showrooms and venues. Among the standout installations was 'A Week at the Knees' by artist Alex Chinneck, a surrealist sculpture crafted from 7,000 bricks. This piece mimicked the Georgian façades of Charterhouse Square but dramatically bent across a path, inviting visitors to experience its distorted form. Although Clerkenwell Design Week concluded on May 22, Chinneck’s installation remained accessible until early July. Another notable public artwork was 'Harmonic Tides' by Arthur Mamou-Mani, which featured two sweeping 3D-printed walls with integrated bench seating. Designed to evoke the natural movement of water, the undulating walls were constructed from a sugar-based bioplastic (PLA) and incorporated LED lighting and a calming soundtrack, creating an immersive and tranquil environment. Additionally, 'Brick from a Stone: Arch Revival,' a collaboration between Hawkins\Brown and Webb Yates for Albion Stone and Hutton Stone, was unveiled on Clerkenwell Green. This double-arched pavilion, made from British stone bricks, demonstrated the inherent strength of stone through incredibly thin, load-bearing arches, merging ancient techniques with modern engineering. The event also featured unique interactive experiences, such as 'Beasley’s Biscuit Bar' by Sons of Beasley, located at Hawkins\Brown’s Clerkenwell Road studio. This installation revived a local historical anecdote about London’s first 'biscuit bar,' offering visitors Yorkshire Tea and homemade biscuits within a retrofitted servery. The space also showcased colorful furniture made from Plykea offcuts and provided a live-making demonstration, blending historical homage with contemporary design. In terms of product design, Hand & Eye presented a tactile range of slip-cast terracotta, stoneware, and porcelain wall lights, all handmade in their Devon workshop, as part of the British Collection. David Irwin introduced the 'Caston' chair for Origin Furniture, notable for its elegant form and circular design principles, featuring a tubular steel frame and zero-waste 3D-knitted upholstery that is fully recyclable. SCP debuted the 'Archer' chair by Magnus Long, a cantilever design with a tubular metal frame and plywood seat, displayed in the Church of Design. Mirage, in collaboration with AMDL Circle, launched ‘Terrae,’ a ceramic surface collection exploring the emotional connection between ceramics, light, and space, presented at Charterhouse. Curiousa introduced 'Carnival,' a sculptural lighting collection displayed in the underground space of the House of Detention. This collection combined hand-blown glass, porcelain, and wood in playful, Harlequin-inspired forms. NaughtOne launched 'Fin,' a new lounge chair by Daniel Schofield, inspired by 1960s space-age design and constructed with a simple plywood frame, minimizing its embodied carbon. Italian brand Bolzan showcased the 'Milo' bed, a cocooning design with a soft, foldable headboard, at Old Sessions House. Bolzan also exhibited headboards from their 'Woven Dreams' collection, including 'Fiocco' by Martino Gamper and 'Rosary' by India Mahdavi, both previously admired in Milan. The event successfully combined large-scale installations, product launches, and interactive elements, solidifying its reputation as a significant event in the design calendar. #ClerkenwellDesignWeek #LondonDesign #ArtInstallation #FurnitureDesign #LightingDesign #SustainableDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #ProductLaunch #InteriorDesign

This article details the basement room reveals from Week 4 of The Block 2021, a reality television competition focused on home renovation and design. The teams were tasked with creating unique basement spaces, resulting in a mix of home cinemas and a steam room. Each team's design choices, expenditures, and the judges' feedback are highlighted. Kirsty and Jesse secured first place with a score of 29/30, spending $34,117. Their winning creation was a retro-inspired home cinema, complete with stepped seating, recliners with cup holders, a large screen, and classic movie posters. The judges were particularly impressed with the integration of modern technology and nostalgic touches, noting its potential as a performance space. The foreman's report indicated no issues with their build. Ronnie and Georgia, and Mitch and Mark, tied for second place, both scoring 28.5/30. Ronnie and Georgia invested $23,410 in their luxurious cinema room, which featured an acoustic panel ceiling with shooting stars, comfortable lounge seating, velvet floor-to-ceiling curtains, and a hidden lolly cupboard. The room was equipped with a huge screen, a state-of-the-art sound system, dimmable lighting with strip LEDs, and sound insulation, which led one judge to reconsider his opinion on home cinemas. Mitch and Mark, with a budget of $31,975, opted for a unique approach by transforming their basement into a day-spa style steam room. This fully tiled and plumbed wet-room included underfloor heating, perfect lighting, and a steam facility with steam-proof speakers. The judges praised its originality and high-quality execution, considering it a luxurious addition to any home. Tanya and Vito placed third with a score of 27/30, spending $32,106. Their home cinema featured a recessed cavity slider door, banked seating with luxurious electric recliners and side tables, a huge screen, and ceiling-to-floor boucle curtains. While acknowledged as less versatile than other spaces, it was deemed an excellent cinema, with blue LED strip lighting creating a post-COVID appealing environment. Josh and Luke received the lowest score of 21/30, with an expenditure of $28,321. They designed a multi-media space, described as a traditional home cinema experience, but also suitable for gaming and watching sports. Their room included a snack and drinks station, a large Iron Man sculpture, and comfortable reclining couches. The architectural highlight was the stepped ceiling, admired for both its practical lighting integration and aesthetic appeal. Despite its smaller size, the judges found the space eccentric and amusing. #TheBlock2021 #BasementReveal #HomeCinema #SteamRoom #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #RoomReveals #Renovation #HomeInspiration

A homeowner in Washington D.C. shared the successful completion of their basement renovation project, which was inspired by previous discussions on a local blog. The reader sought advice on basement renovations a few years prior and found the right team through the blog's recommendations. The design phase was handled by Rich Loosle and Andrew Baldwin of Kube Architecture. The renovation process encountered significant hurdles, including approximately six months of permitting delays. Following these delays, construction began with the initial dig-out phase. However, the first contractor experienced numerous issues, leading the homeowner to replace them after the excavation was completed. The entire project spanned nearly 2.5 years from its inception to the homeowner's happy occupancy. The final outcome of the renovation has been highly satisfactory for the homeowner. The article is accompanied by several photographs attributed to Greg Powers of Greg Powers Photography, provided courtesy of KUBE Architecture. These images showcase the completed basement, highlighting the design elements and the overall transformation. The blog post emphasizes the homeowner's journey, from seeking initial guidance to overcoming construction challenges, ultimately achieving a desirable living space. It serves as a testament to the value of community platforms for sharing experiences and recommendations in home improvement projects. The detailed account of the timeline, including both design and construction phases, provides insight into the complexities involved in such extensive home renovations. #BasementRenovation #HomeImprovement #KubeArchitecture #ConstructionProject #GregPowersPhotography #WashingtonDC #DesignProcess #ContractorIssues #PermittingDelays

This article presents an in-depth conversation with architect Bjarke Ingels, marking nearly ten years since his last interview with Archinect. The discussion focuses on BIG's extensive work in 3D printing and its implications for the architectural profession, as well as the emerging role of artificial intelligence in design. The interview begins by exploring BIG's latest collaboration with construction technology specialists ICON: a collection of pre-designed, 3D-printable homes for ICON's new CODEX catalog. Ingels details the philosophy behind these designs, which originated from investigations into how single-family homes could leverage 3D printing technology. He explains the three distinct collections within CODEX: the 'Storm' collection, featuring hurricane-resistant designs; the 'Fire' collection, offering resilience against wildfires; and the 'TexNext' collection, reimagining traditional Texan typologies like shotgun and porch houses through a 3D printing lens. These collections aim to provide affordable, customizable housing solutions that respond to specific environmental challenges and regional aesthetics. The conversation then delves into how previous 3D printing projects, such as the Mars Dune Alpha simulation habitat, the hospitality project with Liz Lambert, and the 100-home Wolf Ranch development, have informed BIG's approach to the CODEX collection. Ingels highlights that these earlier experiences demonstrated the potential for organically delivering large-scale communities. The traditional method of viewing demonstration homes and purchasing a plot for later construction is contrasted with the efficiency of having 3D printers on-site, capable of delivering a wider variety of customized homes on demand. This approach, termed 'home delivery on-demand,' offers increased customization for a broader audience and can be applied to both large developments and individual plots. Ingels also discusses the specific circumstances where 3D printing offers advantages over conventional construction methods. He points out that innovations driven by the challenges of building on the Moon and Mars, such as ICON's new robotic arm printers, are now yielding benefits for Earth-bound construction. These advanced printers can create taller, more complex structures with reduced site preparation, increasing quality and speed while lowering costs. For the immediate future on Earth, low-rise structures, particularly single-family homes, are best suited to leverage 3D printing's benefits, including effortless customization and freedom of form, which represent significant improvements over traditional methods. Furthermore, the article explores the concept of new business models for architects. Ingels suggests that the product-based model, exemplified by CODEX, allows architects to refine and improve their designs over time, similar to product manufacturers. This contrasts with the traditional service-based model where each project starts from scratch. He envisions a future where architects could generate ongoing royalties from their intellectual property, even after retirement, as seen with his co-founded design practice, KiBiSi. This product-oriented approach also enables continuous feedback and iteration, leading to enhanced quality and efficient delivery. Finally, the discussion addresses the impact of artificial intelligence on architectural practice. Ingels reflects on the progression of design tools, from crayons to rulers to mice, each offering new possibilities while requiring a shift in control. He posits that AI represents the next evolution, allowing young designers to leverage a creative force comparable to that of a large, experienced team. AI eliminates barriers to entry for delivering complex visions with precision and skill, much like modern digital camera technology has democratized film production. Ingels expresses excitement for architecture-focused AI systems like ICON's 'Vitruvius,' acknowledging that while these technologies are in their early stages, their rapid pace of improvement, driven by global collaboration and learning, promises a future of immense potential for the architectural profession. #BjarkeIngels #BIG #ICON #3DPrinting #ArchitecturalInnovation #ArtificialIntelligence #HomeDesign #SustainableArchitecture #FutureOfArchitecture

Designer Krysta Gibbons, a principal at Minneapolis-based Kipling House Interiors, embarked on a unique challenge to construct a new home that would seamlessly blend with its historic neighborhood, mimicking the character of 100-year-old residences rather than appearing as a modern 'glass box.' When a grand estate in her neighborhood was demolished, creating six prime city lots, Gibbons seized the opportunity to build from the ground up after selling her own home. Her primary goal was to create a new construction that felt storied and soulful, making it indistinguishable from older homes in the area. Gibbons focused on creating a floor plan that optimized space for her family of five while emulating the interiors of the historic period. The kitchen design was central to this vision, with Gibbons noting that a vibrant kitchen aesthetic influences surrounding spaces. She drew inspiration from the historic mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, incorporating elements like floor-to-ceiling tiles, center table islands, and large hoods. A visit to La Mercerie restaurant in New York City, known for its timeless feel despite being relatively new, further inspired her approach to use textiles in muted colors and surfaces with worn patinas. She aimed for the entire house to evoke a sense of aged elegance, as if the fabric had faded and paint had yellowed, avoiding a 'too fresh' appearance. The home features a rich visual tapestry and vintage appeal beyond the kitchen, utilizing a palette of subdued colors such as lavender and deep green, checkerboard floors, antique furniture, and an extensive use of 16 different wallpapers throughout. Gibbons expressed a preference for surfaces to be wallpapered, paneled, plastered, or tiled over drywall, reinforcing the home's layered and textured aesthetic. To further embed a sense of history, she even left notes for future homeowners within the walls, envisioning an ongoing narrative for the house. Each room was designed with meticulous detail and a nod to functionality and aesthetic continuity. The kitchen features a marble-topped island that resembles an antique baker's table, cleverly concealing custom, millimeter-measured drawers for every kitchen tool. The butler's pantry, designed for effortless entertaining, integrates appliances seamlessly behind panels and uses antique mirror inserts to enhance light, creating a luminous yet functional space. A bonus pantry extends the kitchen's utility, providing an accessible area for guests and children, dressed in a soft color palette and a small-scale wallpaper. The great room, the sole entertaining space on the main floor, was designed to comfortably seat eleven without appearing over-furnished, incorporating repurposed vintage items and layered textures. A large Flemish mirror, a long-held possession, found its place above the fireplace, while the television is discreetly hidden. The formal dining room, positioned prominently from the front door, boasts a custom mural and reupholstered vintage chairs, aiming for a theatrical and romantic ambiance. The foyer and vestibule set a quiet yet distinctive tone with paneled walls and a salvaged 1800s gas lantern, respectively. The private spaces continue the home's theme of thoughtful design. The primary bedroom is a serene retreat with blue-gray tones, rust accents, and layered textures, designed for quiet relaxation. The primary bath features Swedish-inspired vanities and marble floors with a subtle lattice motif. The daughters' rooms include a cozy bed nook for privacy and a dedicated lounge area for the three sisters, designed to encourage interaction while providing personal space. Even the younger daughter's playful yet polished bathroom showcases clever use of materials, including salvaged tiles, and a purple grasscloth. Finally, a garden shed, initially presented as a tool shed, was transformed into a secret 'Swiftie headquarters' for the daughters, complete with hand-painted floors and a salvaged church pew, extending the home's personalized and imaginative design outdoors. #InteriorDesign #NewConstruction #HistoricHomes #MinneapolisArchitecture #KrystaGibbons #KiplingHouseInteriors #HomeDecor #CustomDesign #VintageAppeal

The article explores innovative solutions for maximizing the often-underutilized space beneath staircases, drawing inspiration from Grand Designs Live's 'Under The Stairs' feature. This annual exhibition, which champions efficient use of small spaces, showcases various creative installations designed by interior stylists to transform this challenging area into a functional and aesthetically pleasing part of the home. These spaces, commonly used as an unplanned storage for coats, shoes, and cleaning equipment, are re-imagined with purpose and design in mind. At Grand Designs Live, eight distinct installations offer homeowners a diverse range of ideas. These designs incorporate bold colors, varied textures, and innovative concepts that cater to different needs and preferences. One notable example highlighted is a dedicated dog room, demonstrating the versatility of the space. The overall winner of the 'Under The Stairs' competition was Chloe Spillett of 'Chloe Gets Creative,' who designed a child-friendly hideaway den. This particular installation was lauded by the judges for its thoughtful features and its ability to celebrate the triangular shape of the space rather than attempting to disguise it. The design was described as inviting, fun, and open, making it an ideal play area for children, particularly relevant for families residing in smaller properties. Barbra Chandler, one of the judges, emphasized that Chloe Spillett's winning design resonated with many visitors due to its practicality and achievability for parents and grandparents. The success of this installation underscores the potential for transforming under-stair areas into purposeful, comfortable, and useful spaces. The article encourages readers to consider these ideas for their own homes, moving beyond the traditional use of the space as a mere storage area. The featured runner-up designs further illustrate the breadth of possibilities, ranging from bespoke storage units to integrated home offices or cozy reading nooks. These examples collectively demonstrate how strategic planning and creative design can convert an awkward architectural feature into a valuable asset, enhancing both the functionality and visual appeal of a living space. The ultimate goal is to inspire homeowners to view these challenging spaces as opportunities for inventive solutions that improve daily living and reflect personal style. #GrandDesignsLive #UnderStairsIdeas #SmallSpaceSolutions #HomeStorage #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving #CreativeHome #RenovationInspiration #ChloeSpillett

In the foothills of Sierra Morena, Spain, a distinctive dwelling named 'Casa Tierra' has been meticulously carved into the natural limestone strata of the Cuevas del Pino estate. This project, undertaken by UMMO estudio, showcases a harmonious integration of architecture with the existing geological features. The interior design celebrates the rough texture and inherent characteristics of the calcarenite stone, which is prominently featured throughout the living spaces. The design philosophy behind 'Casa Tierra' revolves around a continuous and fluid dialogue between the ancient, pre-existing rock formations and the new architectural interventions. Rather than directly contacting the stone, the intervention maintains a sympathetic proximity, creating a peaceful and unique abode. This approach allows the natural environment to remain a dominant aesthetic element while ensuring modern comfort and functionality. The dwelling's interior layout is sculpted to conform to the irregular contours of the natural rock, resulting in a strong sense of enclosure. Despite being embedded within a cave, the spaces are surprisingly bright, thanks to strategically placed windows that allow ample natural light to penetrate. This careful allocation of openings ensures that the residence does not feel subterranean or dark, but rather open and inviting. New elements introduced into the cave home include a sophisticated marble floor, sleek glass openings, and subtle stone details that complement the natural surroundings. Additionally, the project incorporates hand-crafted furniture, which adds a layer of bespoke artistry and warmth to the unique spatial experience. These modern additions are carefully selected to enhance, rather than detract from, the inherent beauty of the cave environment. The integration of walls provides necessary partitioning for functional areas such, as the bathroom and bedroom, while maintaining the fluid nature of the overall design. Concrete and marble flooring has been meticulously laid to contrast with the ruggedness of the existing rock, creating a visual and tactile juxtaposition that highlights both the raw and refined aspects of the home. Stone tiling is also used to further emphasize this interplay between natural and artificial textures. The architects at UMMO estudio focused on creating a new spatial experience that profoundly values the tectonic nature of the region. The project serves as a testament to how contemporary design can respectfully engage with ancient natural formations, transforming them into livable and aesthetically rich environments. 'Casa Tierra' offers a retreat that is both deeply connected to its geological context and equipped with modern amenities, providing a distinctive living experience. #CaveHome #LimestoneArchitecture #SpanishArchitecture #SustainableDesign #NaturalMaterials #IntegratedArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #Cordoba #UMMOEstudio

The General Contractors Design Group, Inc.™ offers an integrated design-build service for high-end residential projects, aiming to provide a seamless process from concept to completion. The firm is led by Founder and CEO Dylan Blake Kapneck, who is both a licensed general contractor and an internationally recognized interior designer. This approach consolidates architecture, design, engineering, permitting, and construction under one entity, which is presented as a solution to common issues associated with hiring separate firms for design and construction, such as delays, miscommunication, and compromised outcomes. The company's methodology is designed to enhance clarity, accelerate project timelines, and deliver results that meet or exceed client expectations for luxury residences. A key differentiator for The General Contractors Design Group, Inc.™ is its emphasis on precision, innovation, and comprehensive accountability throughout the project lifecycle. The firm leverages advanced technology, including real-time, patented 3D model renderings and virtual reality simulations, to allow clients to visualize their spaces before construction begins. This technological integration facilitates detailed refinement of every aspect of the project, ensuring that clients can make informed decisions and approve designs with a clear understanding of the final outcome. The company also focuses on integrating modern systems, from smart home technology to sustainable building materials, into its designs, reflecting a commitment to contemporary and environmentally conscious construction practices. With offices located across South Florida and a portfolio that includes projects on an international scale, The General Contractors Design Group, Inc.™ targets a clientele that demands high standards of control, creativity, and value in their luxury construction ventures. Dylan Blake Kapneck's leadership and innovative strategies are highlighted as central to the firm's standing as a leader in the full-service luxury design-build sector. Kapneck's diverse background, encompassing both real estate development and creative direction, positions him at the forefront of the industry. This blend of expertise enables him to influence the evolution of high-end design and construction, not just in individual homes but also within the broader industry. The firm emphasizes a holistic approach to project management, ensuring that all elements are carefully coordinated and executed to achieve a cohesive and superior final product. This includes meticulous attention to detail in material selection, structural integrity, and aesthetic appeal, all managed within a single, accountable framework. The firm's operational model is structured to mitigate the complexities typically associated with large-scale luxury residential projects. By maintaining an in-house team capable of handling all project phases, The General Contractors Design Group, Inc.™ streamlines communication and decision-making processes. This integrated approach is intended to reduce the administrative burden on clients and ensure consistent quality control. The commitment to a unified design-build process is a core aspect of their service offering, aimed at delivering efficiency and a high level of client satisfaction. This specialized advertising section underscores the firm's dedication to providing a sophisticated and comprehensive service for clients seeking bespoke luxury homes. #GeneralContracting #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #DesignBuild #SouthFlorida #DylanBlakeKapneck #3DRendering #VirtualReality #RealEstateDevelopment

The Surface Design Show is set to feature its 'New Talent' section once again, providing a platform for emerging creatives in surface materials and lighting design. Scheduled from February 11 to 13, the event aims to highlight innovative designs and materials. This year's 'New Talent' section, curated by Jennifer Castoldi, Chief Creative Director at Trendease International, has significantly expanded, showcasing 37 exhibitors compared to 16 in the previous year. All participating designers have been in business for five years or less. Christopher Newton, Director of Surface Design Show, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with Trendease International, noting that Jennifer Castoldi has assembled a collection of exciting new designers with fresh ideas in material design. He anticipates that visitors will engage with the diverse designs, textures, and materials presented within the 'New Talent' area. Many of the exhibitors integrate traditional craft techniques with contemporary design approaches. For instance, Charlotte Relf, an experimental embroidery artist, utilizes exaggerated stitches to impart detail and energy to her work. Similarly, Frances Stone, a Royal School of Needlework graduate, employs various experimental embroidery techniques, including gold work, crewel work, and beading, to craft footstools, chairs, and cushions. Charlotte Clayton Design merges knitting with automotive interior design for surface applications, while Farr Designs combines photography with contemporary design through hand screen prints and digital technology. The 'New Talent' section demonstrates a broad spectrum of approaches to surface design. Janine Partington emphasizes carving and hand-painted leathers. Trifold presents designs featuring thermal and acoustic layers, folded using traditional origami tessellation. Research-based designer Megan Cowley creates mild steel molds using water jet technology, which are then transferred onto glass. Wallcoverings are a prominent feature among the 'New Talent' exhibitors. Olenka's luxury British wallpaper collection showcases natural motifs of leaves and flowers. Catherine Griffiths' work includes bold wallpaper designs, fabrics, and cushions, drawing inspiration from Celtic mythology, the Renaissance, and European architecture. West by Design specializes in intricate hand-painted wallpaper inspired by the English countryside. King Kong Design produces site-specific corporate wall art and custom wall panels for retail, public, and residential settings. A significant theme among the 'New Talent' exhibitors is sustainability and a focus on nature, reflecting the broader 'Close to Home' theme of the Surface Design Show, which emphasizes designing with a conscience beyond mere aesthetics. Jonel van Schalkwyk creates surface designs with human-sized plants in a painterly style. Designer Paula Nerlich concentrates on circular biomaterials, exploring vegan compostables and foams derived from industrial and household food waste. Atticus Durnell, founder of That’sCaffeine, has developed a material from recycled coffee grounds that emulates granite stone. Brussels-based Studio Gilles Werbrouck employs an innovative approach to material reuse by knitting textiles from unconventional sources such as video tape and dead stock from fashion designers. Access to the Surface Design Show is free for professional and trade visitors, with registration available online. #SurfaceDesignShow #NewTalent #EmergingCreatives #SurfaceMaterials #LightingDesign #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign #MaterialInnovation #CraftTechniques