Back after a 2-year hiatus, thousands of visitors eagerly returned to Clerkenwell for the annual Design Week last week. The Broadbase team spent an incredible 2 days at the event squeezing in as many showrooms as we could, reuniting with old friends and looking out for new products, trends and inspirational new designers in the exhibition venues.
We noticed an unsurprising increase in products and designs influenced by agile and hybrid working with private and semi-private pods and functional home working desks proving popular. The influence of home working could also be evidenced from the increase of biophilic design, with varying styles of planters dotted around the showrooms as designers looked to emulate the look and feel of home in the office. Muted shades of green and pink and earthy tones were also popular choices.
From a choice of over 150 resident showrooms and 10 exhibition venues, here are just 10 of our favourites. In no particular order…
Hugg chair from Sixteen3
After a long first day, this aptly named chair provided some welcome relief. Its beautifully curved back is both supportive and comforting making it ideal as a multi-purpose meeting chair that can accommodate longer periods of sitting when extra support and comfort are needed. Available with 8 leg options and a range of colours including custom colours.
Hideaway Swing desk from Bisley
Designed to provide a smart and flexible home working solution for smaller spaces. In one easy movement, the desktop swings out at 90 degrees to transform this neat sideboard into a spacious workspace with storage and a built-in USB and plug charging point. Available in a range of finishes to suit any home.
Penny stool from Naughtone
These colourful stools were a firm favourite with the Broadbase team. Available in a vast range of RAL colours, keep an eye out for more information when they officially launch in September!
Soundsticks® from Offecct (part of the Flokk family)
These award-winning acoustic room dividers have been cleverly upcycled from upholstery textile scraps. With a sound-absorbing core, they contribute to a calmer ambience by breaking up large open areas. Available in 4 colour palettes each set varies depending on what excess fabric there is available. A versatile and sustainable option for open-plan spaces.
Sofas from Habbio
“the UK’s most sustainable sofa” made from recycled material and also 100% recyclable at end of life. Available in 4 styles, multiple sizes and modular options and a range of finishes, the fabric is so incredibly soft making it ideal for both home and the workplace.
TAKEoSEAT from Sedus
This stool caught our attention due to the simple and practical design. Sturdy, foldable, lightweight, easy to carry and store and surprisingly comfortable. They’re perfect for dotting around the office or home to create a quick seat.
Seaqual from Camira
Initially launched in 2020, this award-winning collection made up of Oceanic and Quest was created in partnership with the Seaqual Initiative. Inspired by the environmental issue of marine plastic pollution, the fabrics have been created using recycled polyesters and are woven entirely from waste plastic. Camira’s creative display made up of plastic waste rescued from the sea, made the story behind it come to life.
OVO lounge chair by Benchmark
Part of the Best of British exhibition. The soft curves and silky smooth finish of this solid oak chair make it a beautifully tactile piece of furniture.
Objects collection from Own Brand Projects
This new designer was part of the Rising Stars exhibition. The collection was inspired by the shape of shallow wooden bowl. An elegant choice of muted colours made these pieces stand out. We’re excited to see more from this brand in the future.
Hotbox 4 by Hotbox
The latest piece from hotbox’s collection of versatile accessories designed with agile working in mind. These useful tool boxes can be taken from the home to office or stored in a locker overnight making them ideal for hot desking and offices with a clear desk policy. We will be stocking the range on our website very soon!
Watch our full round-up video of everything we saw and loved at Clerkenwell Design Week, 2 days in 2 and a half minutes. Watch on YouTube
