Archetech Issue 46 2020 | Page 88

SURFACE DESIGN SHOW CELEBRATES 15 YEARS OF BRINGING TOGETHER THE BEST IN INTERNATIONAL SURFACE MATERIAL INNOVATION Surface Design Show returns to London’s Business Design Centre from 11-13 February, with a new focal point through this year’s theme ‘Close to Home’, which will look beyond aesthetics and into manufacturers’ impact on the environment. As well as over 180 exhibitors, visitors can also enjoy a packed programme of approximately 30 presentations from 50 speakers across the purpose-built stages, including the ever-popular Opening Night Debate and the lively PechaKucha evening, which will be hosted by Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects. The winners of the prestigious Surface Design Awards will also be revealed during the 2 ½ days. Surface Spotlight Live, a section of the show curated by trend expert Sally Angharad and forecasters Colour Hive, will take a look at what the future holds for materials while the Stone Gallery also returns for 2020. Supported by the leading industry body Stone Federation GB, this section’s Stone Knowledge Hub will form a focal point for the event where architects and designers can interact with, and learn more about, specifying natural stone. Light School is key component of the show, reflecting the fact that London is the world’s capital for lighting design specification. Here leading manufacturers will demonstrate the relationship between light and surfaces, as well as showcasing the latest architectural lighting products and innovations in lighting technology. Light Talks, a series of sessions supported by the Institution of Lighting Professionals and collated by Rebecca Weir from Lightbout.IQ, will underpin this knowledge sharing. As well as established brands, Surface Design Show is dedicated to promoting up- and-coming designers in the materials sector with its New Talent section appearing once again, curated by internationally acclaimed speaker and forward-thinking chief creative director at Trendease International Jennifer Castoldi. Renowned practices including Steven Holl Architects, Mikhail Riches, AECOM, WilkinsonEyre, Arupand Chris Dyson Architects are among those shortlisted for the 2020 Surface Design Awards, which exemplify creative use of surface materials and lighting. There are an impressive 39 projects across 14 categories in total, from retail and public buildings to commercial projects and housing. Demonstrating the truly international reach of the awards, now in their sixth year, projects on the shortlist spanned 13 countries from 34 different organisations with emerging practices represented, as well as established firms. The judging panel praised both the high quality and variety of entries within the field of surfaces and materials, which made for a captivating and exciting day of judging. Tickets are free to professional and trade visitors. Register at www.surfacedesignshow.com/register