Designer collaborations make every edition of Decorex special. This year, decorative artist Claire Coles has been invited to transform all aspects of the event, from installations on the show floor to digital platforms and social media. Norfolk-based Coles specializes in handcrafted wallpapers and appliquéd artwork, and her layered style will weave a unique visual narrative for visitors to enjoy.
The VIP Lounge and Decorex Bar are also curated by hand-picked designers. The former will be decorated in a concept called Back to the Future – The Chalet Reimagined by Claudia Dorsch. Inspired by the Italian ski culture of the 1970s, it promises to give traditional alpine life a contemporary twist, and will celebrate wood, fire and craftsmanship. The bar, meanwhile, will be masterminded by AEVEN’s Alex Dawley and Grant Pearce, whose concept A Seat at the Table will be an immersive communal space featuring a long, shared table with individually sourced chairs from global designers.
‘Decorex is the one moment in the year where the wider design community stops to connect,’ says Dawley. ‘It balances production and craft with looking at where the industry is going next, which is why it’s so important to all of us. Designing a bar this year feels even more personal: that shared energy and cultural insight keeps our industry thriving.’
Dowley will also host a panel as part of the Decorex Talks program, whose engaging discussions offer invaluable insights into the issues shaping interior design today. Last but not least, visitors should not miss the Making Space platform, now in its fifth year, which not only highlights the work of the UK’s finest craft practitioners but also offers a glimpse into their making processes. Among the 14 artisans featured this year are mosaic artist Gary Drostal, paper artist Catherine Hammerton, ceramist Helen Johannessen and furniture maker Tim Evershed.
Registration for Decorex 2026 is now open, with early bird tickets available until July 17. Click here To secure your location.
