From 3-5 February ‘SDS26’ will showcase the very best in materials and surfaces for architects and designers to explore and interact with. This years’ theme is ‘Material Evolution’ and will stress a rethinking of newness and how the industry can make the shift from waste to worth. The show will encourage exhibitors and visitors alike to celebrate thoughtful design and redefine what it means to be new whilst championing circular systems, material transparency and inventive reuse.
Over 180 exhibitors will be showcasing the best in material innovation with surfaces for both exteriors and interiors ranging from hand crafted ceramic tiles to stunning marble walls, bespoke wood veneers and everything in between. Many of the thousands of surfaces and materials on display will be launched at the show, making visitors the first to explore new innovations in the industry.
The 2026 edition promises to be bigger and better than ever with returning features including Surface Spotlight, Stone Tapestry, Innovation Gallery, Green Grads and the Surface Design Awards. SDS has also announced a new partnership with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), serving as a host partner for two of RIBA’s most significant annual events.
Studio Justine Fox will be managing the curation of the designer hub for SDS26, using its expertise in applied colour psychology, colour insights and colour ergonomics to make the space one of the show’s standout areas.
The Green Grads will once again grace the innovation gallery with their experimental projects that push the boundaries of design and materiality. Last year included materials and products made from tennis balls, breadcrumbs and ground coffee. This year we will continue to see the best of what Barbara Chandler’s Green Grads have to display.
The ceramicist Andra Munro will be returning for 2026, bringing her expertise in porcelain and craft to the BDC, last year she created a beautiful entrance to show featuring an intricate wall. For 2026, Andra will be creating something even bigger.
The show will also host a range of powerful speaker sessions with over 55 industry leaders debating and exploring a range of topics including designing for neurodiversity, surfaces for art, material literacy and colour forecasting.
The highly anticipated Surface Design Awards ceremony will be held during the show, welcoming the shortlisted entrants along with visitors to a drinks reception on the evening of Wednesday 6 February. The awards celebrate excellence in material and surface innovation with categories highlighting both projects and products that have pushed boundaries in outstanding design. This years judging panel includes directors and principals from the UK’s leading architectural practices along with industry experts and includes Muyiwa Oki-President RIBA, Tina Norden, Principal at Conran & Partners, Tim Gledstone, Partner at Squire & Partners, Barbara Chandler, Founder of Green Grads and Roddy Clarke, Design Journalist among others.
SDS26 is a must in the design calendar to explore all creative things within the material and surface world.
Register today by scanning the QR Code.
Article supplied by the Surface Design Show
