Like every yearfor London Design Week we arm ourselves with the best walking shoes we can muster, healthy nibbles and our LDF2019 guide. On this particular occasion we head to Chelsea Harbour, to enjoy the Design Centre’s open doors and discover what’s new in design.

 

It’s not easy to get to the centre but Focus/19 offers a convenient transport pick up and drop off point from Sloane Square. We had to wait longer than usual, but it’s a treat to begin our research day by being driven door to door to the event. We’re greeted with the same lovely vibes every year, stores offer nibbles and champagne, interesting talks, wonderful interior projects and inspiration galore.

 

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First up, we’re immediately drawn to Christopher Farr Cloth. Building upon Farr’s unrivalled expertise in custom handmade rugs and tapestries, Cloth nurtures relationships with likeminded makers, a continued passion for time-honoured screen-printing processes and artisan weaving. It’s noteworthy that they’re currently working with Turquoise Mountain, a non-profit organisation that works to preserve the traditions of rug and textile making in Afghanistan. Their pop up at Focus/19 also had live weaving demonstrations and it was a pattern heaven!

 

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We continue our exploration and we’re immediately drawn to a tunnel like road that leads to the Design Avenue. New for this season, we fall in love with the space. Light, spacious, towering ceilings and perfectly organised trade spaces. We particularly loved Baroncelli, Italian brand Ligne Rossetand Blithfield. The latter with a maximalist approach to the stand’s décor with the master of print Kit Kemp having curated the space using Blithfield textiles.

 

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We manage to catch some of the conversation with the enigmatic Luke Edward Hall– playful, eclectic and sophisticated – is his signature style. And we love it! He’s got a new book out and called Disco Greek. It’s divine for the eyes and food for your home.

 

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One of our favourite things about the Design Centre is its glass dome, as the sun sets, we make our way toGladee. And oh! The sun is in the perfect position to create the most spectacular show of lights that reflects beautifully on each astonishing crystal chandelier.

 

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Last but least, we must mention Porta Romana. As we walk into their store, we are immersed in a world of light. Beautiful table lamps,wall lightsceiling lightsand of course the one that always makes us smile!

 

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We finish our journey with some lovely snacks from the café, and a kick of sugar is much needed but instead we opt for a kick of caffeine with LoveRaw and a healthy dose of activated nuts by Boundless. The perfect end to Focus 2019.