The Top 7 Design Events in the UK, September 2024 

As the summer heat mellows into the crisp, golden hues of autumn, September in the UK becomes a playground for designers, creatives, and antique enthusiasts alike. This month is packed with events that serve as treasure troves of inspiration, offering everything from vintage curiosities to cutting-edge design innovations. For anyone looking to reignite their creative spark, this is the perfect time to explore, connect, and soak in the wealth of ideas these gatherings offer. Let’s dive into seven must-visit UK design events 2024 that will supercharge your design inspiration and creativity from our Head of Product, Olivia. 

1. Ardingly Antiques Fair: 3rd – 4th September, Ardingly Showground 

Kicking off the month, we visited the Ardingly Antiques Fair – a haven for anyone with a passion for the past, with fairs held regularly throughout the year. Located at the sprawling Ardingly Showground, this fair is one of the largest in the South of England organised by the IACF and attracting exhibitors and visitors from all across Europe. With over 1,700 stalls, the fair offers an eclectic mix of antiques, vintage items, and collectibles that span centuries of design – the perfect way to begin ‘Secondhand September’.

For designers, Ardingly is more than just a shopping trip; it’s a journey through history. The items on display—ranging from Victorian furniture to mid-century modern décor—provide a unique opportunity to study craftsmanship and design trends from different eras. The fair’s vibrant atmosphere, combined with the thrill of discovery, makes it a perfect setting for sparking new ideas. Whether you’re hunting for a specific piece or simply browsing, Ardingly offers a wealth of inspiration, with each stall telling its own story.

2. Top Drawer: 8th – 10th September, Kensington Olympia

Next on the creative calendar is Top Drawer, held at Kensington Olympia. This event is a hub for the latest in retail design, home décor, and lifestyle products. Top Drawer is divided into carefully curated sectors, including Home, Gift, Fashion, Craft, and Greetings, ensuring that there’s something to inspire every type of designer.

Top Drawer stands out for its focus on both aesthetics and functionality, making it a must-visit for those looking to bring fresh, innovative ideas into their work. The event is a showcase of the latest trends, with exhibitors from around the world presenting products that push the boundaries of design. Whether you’re a product designer, interior designer, or retailer, Top Drawer offers a treasure trove of ideas that can be adapted and reimagined in countless ways.

In addition to the product displays, Top Drawer hosts workshops and seminars featuring industry experts. These sessions provide valuable insights into emerging trends, consumer behaviour, and the future of design, making it a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve. We can’t wait!

3. Sunbury Antiques Market: 10th and 24th September, Kempton Park Racecourse

For those who thrive on the thrill of the hunt, the Sunbury Antiques Market is a must-visit. Held twice a month at Kempton Park Racecourse, this market is one of the largest and most popular in the UK. It’s known for its diverse range of antiques, vintage items, and collectables, attracting dealers, designers, and enthusiasts alike.

Sunbury offers a unique blend of the rare and the eclectic, making it fertile ground for creative inspiration. The market is a labyrinth of possibilities, with each stall offering something different—from antique furniture and architectural salvage to retro décor and quirky curiosities. For designers, it’s an opportunity to uncover hidden gems and unexpected items that can add a unique touch to their projects.

The market’s dynamic atmosphere and the sheer variety of items on display make it a great place to explore new ideas. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for a specific project or simply looking to broaden your creative horizons, Sunbury is sure to provide plenty of food for thought.

4. London Design Festival: 14th – 22nd September, Across London

The London Design Festival is the crown jewel of design events, drawing creative minds from around the globe. Spanning multiple venues across the city, the festival is a celebration of all things design, featuring exhibitions, installations, and events that showcase the best of contemporary design across various disciplines.

What makes the London Design Festival truly special is its ability to transform the city into a living, breathing gallery. From large-scale installations in public spaces to intimate exhibitions in design studios, the festival offers endless opportunities to experience design in new and unexpected ways. For designers, it’s a chance to see the latest innovations, engage with cutting-edge ideas, and be part of a global conversation about the future of design.

The festival’s wide-ranging program means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re interested in product design, architecture, fashion, or digital innovation. It’s an immersive experience that encourages exploration and experimentation, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to push the boundaries of their creativity. We’ll be looking forward to ‘All in Proportion‘, a conversation between Katie Fontana and Veere Grenney, chaired by World of Interiors editor Emily Tobin.

5. Sandown Antiques Fair: 15th September, Sandown Park Racecourse

Following closely after Sunbury, the Sandown Antiques Fair is another gem for antique lovers and designers. Held at Sandown Park Racecourse, this fair offers a more intimate setting compared to some of the larger markets, but it’s no less rich in inspiration.

The Sandown Antiques Fair is known for its high-quality offerings, with dealers presenting a curated selection of antiques, vintage items, and collectables. For designers, the fair provides a chance to discover unique pieces that can add character and authenticity to their projects. Whether you’re looking for period furniture, decorative arts, or rare collectables, Sandown has plenty to offer.

The fair’s relaxed atmosphere also makes it a great place to connect with dealers and fellow designers, share ideas, and gain insights into the world of antiques. It’s an event that encourages a slower pace, allowing you to fully appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind each piece. We’ll be sourcing new props and decorative items for our new showroom in Sussex, opening later this year.

6. Focus/24: 16th – 20th September, Design Centre Chelsea Harbour

Rounding out the month is Focus/24, held at the Design Centre Chelsea Harbour. This event is a cornerstone of the London Design Festival and is dedicated to the world of luxury interiors. Focus/24 is a must-attend for interior designers, architects, and anyone with a passion for high-end design.

The event features a curated selection of the finest in interior design, with showrooms presenting the latest collections in furniture, fabrics, wallcoverings, lighting, and accessories. Focus/24 is not just about products; it’s about creating an immersive experience that showcases the art of interior design at its best.

In addition to the showroom displays, Focus/24 offers a rich program of talks, workshops, and panel discussions, featuring leading figures from the world of design. These sessions provide valuable insights into the creative process, design trends, and the future of interiors, making it an invaluable resource for professionals in the industry.

The Design Centre itself is a source of inspiration, with its stunning architecture and luxurious interiors providing the perfect backdrop for the event. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for a specific project or simply looking to immerse yourself in the world of luxury design, Focus/24 is the place to be.

7. The Country Brocante Harvest Fair: 20th – 21st September, The Meadows at Thyme

Nestled in the idyllic setting of The Meadows at Thyme, The Country Brocante Harvest Fair is a celebration of rustic charm and vintage elegance. One of our all-time favourite fairs – this event is a must-visit for anyone who loves the beauty of the countryside, with a focus on antiques, handmade goods, and artisanal products that reflect the heritage of rural England.

The Country Brocante Harvest Fair offers a carefully curated selection of stalls, showcasing everything from antique furniture and vintage textiles to handcrafted ceramics and botanical prints. The event’s emphasis on quality and craftsmanship makes it a valuable source of inspiration for designers who appreciate the artistry of handmade and vintage items.

The fair’s location in The Meadows at Thyme adds to its charm, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop that enhances the experience. For designers, the event is an opportunity to explore new ideas in a relaxed and inspiring environment, where the beauty of nature and the creativity of the exhibitors come together in perfect harmony.

A busy month ahead…

September is a month brimming with opportunities for creative inspiration. From the historical treasures at Ardingly and Sunbury to the cutting-edge innovations at Top Drawer and the London Design Festival, there’s something for every designer to explore and enjoy. The addition of events like The Country Brocante Harvest Fair offers a chance to connect with the beauty of nature and the timeless appeal of vintage and handcrafted items. Each event offers its own unique perspective on design, providing a wealth of ideas and experiences that can spark new projects and push creative boundaries. Whether you’re an interior designer, product designer, or simply someone with a passion for creativity, these events are sure to leave you inspired and ready to bring fresh ideas to life.