Events

Clerkenwell Design Week 2018: What Not To Miss

Clerkenwell is home to more creative businesses and architects per square mile than anywhere else on the planet. It is, therefore, no surprise that it is also home to one of the UK’s leading independent design festivals. Now in its ninth year, Clerkenwell Design Week has firmly established itself an event not to be missed by the design community. Last year over 34,000 people flocked to the trendy streets of EC1 to explore a series of showroom events, exhibitions and special installations. This year promises to be just as successful. The event kicks off on 22nd May and lasts for three days - with so much to see and not much time to see it we asked a few members of the team to put together a list of the talks, exhibitions and installations that are not to be missed. - Design Crimes and Icons, Wednesday 23rd May First on the list is Design Crimes and Icons led by Icon deputy editor, Priya Khanchandani. Priya will be joined by an expert panel including Max Fraser to celebrate the very best of design and crucify the very worst. “The subject of this talk really interests me. We’re always talking about iconic, innovative design but what happens when it goes wrong and what makes it memorable?” – Daniel Boden-Wilson, PR Manager Taking place in a dedicated space at Design Fields, this talk is set to address the question of what is good design and why is it important. Find out more here. Takumi Woodwork With Japanese inspired design becoming increasingly popular around the world, we recommend going to visit Takumi Woodwork who create exquisite handmade Japanese inspired furniture and everyday items from all types of beautiful hardwoods. “Takumi is the Japanese for ‘artisan’ and ‘craft’ and given the increasing interest in Japanese inspired design and craft, I look forward to seeing the space of lifelong friends Louis Higgins and Ed Wilson, who make Japanese inspired designs in their Lancashire workshop.” – Sabina Miller, Head of Buying You can take a closer look at Takumi Woodwork’s at Platform, a show that recognises some of the world’s most exciting up-and-coming design talent. The show will be taking place at the House of Detention on Sans Walk, a 19th-century underground prison that will act as a striking and atmospheric backdrop. Behind Closed Doors by Hakwood Located at the entrance to Spa Fields, you’ll find a 3.2-metre high installation designed by Shape London, named ‘Behind Closed Doors.’ The structure will feature a street scene of tall decorative townhouses clad in Hakwood Wall Tiles. Each house will have its own unique pattern sharing the same colour palette. “I like how this installation celebrates diversity in design. Its aim is to highlight that any interior is an open door for creative inspiration.” Nadeige Pyndiah Each house includes a small door revealing a series of miniature interiors designed by various architects from Shape’s Dragon Fly Place Collective. The hidden rooms will be placed at various heights to invite visitors to interact with the installation and ‘discover’ all the rooms. Designing for the Future, Wednesday 23rd May Another talk not to be missed is “Designing For the Future”, a panel discussion led by Charles Leon, President of the BIID. The panel will be discussing how innovation and cultural change shape contemporary design, focussing on future trends, technological innovation within design and the diversification of brands. “This is a really unique opportunity to hear the opinions of experts about the future of design within a social and technological context. Not only will it be interesting to hear about future trends, but also why we will be seeing them.” – Kate MacNay, Content Coordinator Charles Leon will be joined by interior designers Nicola Harding, founder of Harding and Read, Lewis Taylor, design director of David Collins Studio, and Forster Inc’s owner Rachel Forster. Find out more here. Ercol's new Von Collection Ercol emerged in the post-war era with a passion for creating furniture that was both well-designed and well-made. Nearly 70 years on the brand’s design icons are still as stylish today as they were in the 1950s and its long-lasting reputation for creating pieces that stand the test of time is what sets it apart from other modern-day furniture makers. “Ercol will be showcasing their new 2018 Von Collection Designed by Hlynur V. Atlason. Based on a chair from Ercol’s archives, the new collection has a wooden frame with tapered legs and upholstered seat and reclining back.” – Rachel Tinkler, Assistant Furniture Buyer Set to be another future classic, take a first look at the brand new chair at the Albion, a small collection of food and drink destinations, specialising in unfussy and informal all-day dining. To explore the full programme and register for entry, visit the official Clerkenwell Design Week website.

Events

Step Back In Time At The Geffrye

Image Credit: Hannah Taylor Situated in a set of 18thcentury almshouses in buzzy Hoxton, the Geffrye Museum explores the home from 1600 to the present day. Perfect for those that are prone to nostalgia, the Geffrye offers visitors the unique experience of stepping back in time to the middle-class living rooms of the past. Starting from 1600, it’s an immersive way to take in domestic history, explore the evolution of design and the changing attitudes towards the home. From the beautiful antiques of the 1800s to the nostalgic feel of the 1990s room sets, there’s something for everyone to see. A highlight is the 1960s living room which features beautiful mid-century designs and plenty of varnished wood that transports you back to the era. Displaying original furniture, including many a design from the Heal’s archive, The Geffrye Museum is a must-visit for every interior design lover. Image credit: Jane Lloyd Unfortunately, there’s not long left to stop by. The Geffrye is set to close its doors on 7th January 2018 for two years in order for work to start on a transformational development project, Unlocking the Geffrye. Before it shuts its doors, the museum has organised a Farewell Party Weekend to say goodbye to both Christmas and the museum. Taking place over two days – Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th January – guests can see the period rooms for the last time, join in the Epiphany celebrations and enjoy live music and performances, street food, crafts for all the family, winter cocktails and special offers in the shop and café. Have a read of what’s on below... Saturday 6 January, 3.30-5pm: Farewell to Christmas Wrap up and get warm by the bonfire in our front gardens – sing along to carols with the London Orphean Brass Band, listen to stories about Epiphany and enjoy a taste of Twelfth Night cake and mulled wine. Sunday 7 January, 10am-5pm: Closing Day party Meet the museum team and hear all about the Geffrye’s plans, get behind the scenes with the curators, play games on the front lawn, get crafty in creative workshops, tuck into winter-warming food and hot cocktails, be entertained by drag queen Timberlina and punk-pop-poet showgirl Brigitte Aphrodite, and join in a traditional East End farewell sing-along around the piano. Although the museum is closing, there will still be plenty of reasons to visit the Geffrye. Events will be run on the front lawn and the restored almshouse will be open for tours on certain days each month. Keep up to date with the latest news and events at www.geffrye-museum.org.uk

Events

Heal's Festival Of Light 2017

The Heal’s Festival of Light is back for its second year, with more of the world’s finest designer lighting brands on display at our Tottenham Court Road store. This year we welcome pieces from Lasvit, Ferm, Northern Lighting and New Works who have all designed stunning installations that spread across the ground floor of our flagship. There are also new designs from our established favourites including Anglepoise, Anna Jacobs, Flos, Tala, Tom Dixon and Tom Raffield. Highlights include Tom Raffield's Woodland, a fully sized tree designed for Heal's to re-focus the spotlight on the use of Ash wood within design. Hand-crafted using Tom's unique technique of steam-bending, his Ash tree is a celebration of British craft. Also on display and exclusively available at Heal’s is the new Voronoi III from Tala. Having made its debut at this year's London Design Festival, the world’s largest sculptural bulb has now found its way to our store where a striking display takes centre stage in our front window. The organic forms in this collection stem from the Voronoi pattern found in the forest canopy and a singular spiral of LED filament mimics the Fibonacci sequence seen in pine cones and ferns. We also welcome Czech glass brand, Lasvit, who have a simple aim of creating breath-taking light and design experiences using the Bohemian glass that its country is renowned for. Combining traditional techniques with innovative technologies, Lasvit creates bespoke lighting installations that are just as much pieces of art as they are functional lighting designs. Displaying four of its premium lighting designs, be sure to take a close look at Yakisugi - a collaboration between Lasvit and Kengo Kuma. Kuma questioned the materiality of glass and natural wood by combining the two distinct textures within one striking design. Molten glass is poured into wooden moulds, charring the inner layer and leaving a permanent imprint of its scorched texture on the glass’s surface. It’s a magic moment when a living wood texture is eternally captured. With plenty more to see in store, stop by our Tottenham Court Road flagship before the 6th November 2017.

Events

The Heal’s London Design Festival 2017 Roundup

It's been a busy week at the Heal's Tottenham Court Road store. In case you missed it, here are some of our highlights from London Design Festival 2017. LDF installation For this year’s London Design Festival we knew we wanted to do something special. We decided to team up with architecture and interior design firm, Jetico + Whiles, who designed a colourful wave of ribbons that ran through the ground floor of our Tottenham Court Road store. The colours were inspired by the tones found in our new AW17 collection, with jewel tones and dusty pinks taking centre stage. Nearly 4 kilometres of ribbon were hand cut by members of the Heal’s team in the run-up to the Festival before being meticulously attached to metal frames. This theme was continued to the exterior of the building - the iconic Heal’s flags were given a makeover and mirrored the ribbon effect inside. The result was a visually striking installation that provided a stunning backdrop to our LDF. Dinner with the Designers To celebrate London Design Festival 2017, we welcomed a number of Heal’s designers, collaborators and influencers to our flagship store on Tottenham Court Road. It was the return of ‘Dinner with the Designers’, our annual feast that sees some of the biggest names in the interiors industry come together under one roof. Heal’s designers past and present rubbed shoulders with emerging talent, established editors and industry experts all in the name of celebrating another year of innovation. Following a champagne reception amongst some of our new designs for AW17, guests were led to our 100 foot long dining table that was set under our bespoke LDF installation. The table was laid with glassware from Riedel and flowers from Highgate Flowers. Amongst the guests were a number of internationally renowned designers including Russell Pinch, Matthew Hilton, Michelle Ogundehin, Deborah Barker, Barbara Chandler, Sir Kenneth Grange, Janice Morley, Pip McCormac. The Heal's LDF Party The following night, we opened our doors to the public and threw a Scandinavian-themed party for every design lover in London. With ABBA playing in the background, guests were treated to canapes from Snaps + Rye, cider from Alska, and a Cointreu cocktail bar. Workshops were spread throughout the three floors of the store including mid-century collage with Eloise Renouf, paper crafting and printing with Marcus Walters and Scandi crafting with Emily Dawe Myer Halliday gave a captivating demonstration of his ceramic painting and Yam Studio gave an interior styling masterclass within our Brunel apartment. To see the full album of images, head to our Facebook page.

Events

Capital Craft: 10 Top Workshops In London

If you’re anything like us, simply admiring a finely crafted piece is not enough. Not only do we want to know how it’s made but we are always willing to roll up our sleeves and try our hand at making it for ourselves. So as our Made in London season draws to a close, it seems only fitting that we pull together a guide to ten of the city’s most exciting craft aficionados. From pop-up sessions to evening classes, one-day workshops to qualified courses, these master makers are the go-to for anyone keen to get crafting. A post shared by Blackhorse Workshop (@blackhorsews) on Apr 10, 2017 at 8:03am PDT Blackhorse Workshop Taking the ‘make, do and mend’ philosophy very much to heart, Blackhorse Workshop is an open access wood and metal workshop situated in Walthamstow. The fully equipped space is staffed by a team of expert technicians and is available to rent for half a day or you can sign up for an annual membership. For those less adept with a power saw, Blackhorse Workshop also run a number of courses and workshops covering the basics of woodworking that range from a one-day introduction to more comprehensive classes spanning five evenings. www.blackhorseworkshop.co.uk A post shared by The Kiln Rooms (@thekilnrooms) on Feb 18, 2017 at 12:33am PST The Kiln Rooms Peckham-based The Kiln Rooms is a communal studio that seeks to provide a platform for professional ceramicists. Spread over two studios, which are conveniently situated just around the corner from each other, this community of makers offers professional development to its members as well as classes aimed at beginners and master makers alike. www.thekilnrooms.com A post shared by Hato (@hatopress) on Feb 15, 2017 at 7:07am PST Hato Press While you may not be familiar with the term risograph printing, it’s likely that you will have already seen the work of Hato Press as part of exhibition graphics at the Tate, Design Museum and V&A. Capturing the warmth of analogue prints through the use of a digital printer, risograph printing is an easy, environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to create multi-layered artworks. Based in Hoxton, you can work with their team of printers to realise a riso project or learn the basics through their design, publishing and production workshops. hatopress.net A post shared by Louise SDR (@shoreditchdesignrooms) on Mar 6, 2017 at 3:06pm PST Shoreditch Design Rooms A working upholstery studio, Shoreditch Design Rooms are specialists in all things furniture and fabrics. Priding themselves on a playful and personal approach, the studio’s master upholsterers have gained a reputation not only for their work with interior designers and architects but also as one of the country's leading upholstery training centres. Whether it’s a taster course in caning, embroidery and cushion making or a full qualification you are after, Shoreditch Design Rooms is the perfect place to learn. shoreditchdesignrooms.com A post shared by Royal Drawing School (@royaldrawingschool) on Apr 13, 2017 at 6:23am PDT Royal Drawing School If you’ve ever fancied yourself as the next great figurative artist, the Royal Drawing School is just the place to sharpen your skills (and not to mention your pencil). Studios are spread across the capital in Shoreditch, Oxford Street and Trinity Buoy Wharf with the institution offering over 250 flexible courses in life drawing, etching or even the art of comics and graphic novels. royaldrawingschool.org A post shared by London Terrariums (@londonterrariums) on Apr 2, 2017 at 1:13am PDT London Terrariums For those keen to bring some greenery into their home, a workshop with London Terrariums is a must. Masters in the art of bottled gardens, this growing botanical business is soon to launch its first store in New Cross with owner Emma having just penned her debut book. The studio itself is based in Bermondsey, however, the bumper schedule of workshops take place across the capital in a host of trendy locations including Heal’s stores. londonterrariums.com A post shared by Sophie (@grainandknot) on Apr 27, 2017 at 8:03am PDT Grain & Knot Lovingly handcrafted by Sophie, Grain & Knot produce a range of sleek wooden goods for the home. When she’s not busy whittling away at her home studio, Sophie spends her time travelling across the capital hosting her pop-up wood workshops, which includes spoon and butter knife carving using reclaimed timbers. www.grainandknot.com A post shared by Katie + Kirstie (@theworkbenchldn) on Feb 9, 2017 at 9:23am PST The Workbench Founded by east London jewellers and best friends Katie Woodward (a.k.a. Crux London) and Kirstie Maclaren, The Workbench helps would be designers carve their own solid silver ring. Fusing their creative flair and technical know-how, the pair has found a niche in the ever competitive world of pop-up workshops by producing a DIY kit that lets you create your own design. www.theworkbenchlondon.com A post shared by Bread Ahead Bakery & School (@breadaheadboroughmarket) on Apr 29, 2017 at 2:13am PDT Bread Ahead Master bakes are a piece of cake when you’ve got the expertise of the Bread Ahead team by your side. Located in the heart of the foodie mecca that is Borough Market, their bakery school is the perfect place to hone your baking skills with a mouth-watering array of courses including sourdough, patisserie and doughnut workshops. www.breadahead.com A post shared by London Beer Lab (@londonbeerlab) on Jan 7, 2016 at 8:14am PST London Beer Lab Raise a glass to Brixton based London Beer Lab. Demystifying the craft behind your favourite tipple, this open source micro brewery have plenty of ales to tell with beer making workshops for individuals or groups of up to six people. Well if you’re going to plan a Saturday afternoon out with friends why not make it a boozy one? www.londonbeerlab.com For more hands-on workshops, designer talks and craft themed parties, make sure to check our roster of events.

Events

Made In London: The Heal's Modern Craft Market Returns!

Now in its fourth year, the Heal's Modern Craft Market is back and this time round we're focusing on the city where it all began. Running from the 10th April to 7th May, at our Tottenham Court Road store, Made in London will champion the very best in the capital's new and emerging design talent by focusing on the small-scale designers and makers who live and work in the great metropolis. London is an extraordinary creative and cultural hub that is very dear to our hearts having been place where Heal's first store was opened all the way back in 1810. This unique season of events will provide a platform for new designers plus a showcase for the exceptional products that are not just being designed in the capital but are made there too. The exhibitor list reflects the proud diversity of the city with everything from ceramics, gin-making, weaving, glassblowing, textiles to artisan soaps all in the mix. Like all Heal's events, we want you to get involved and will have a number of the designers and makers in store to provide live demonstrations, hands-on workshops and discuss the skills that go into the pieces on display. What's on? Your invite to our Made in London launch party Of course, no season at Heal's is complete without a party, which is why we're holding a special event that is free to all on Thursday 20th April 6-9pm. Join us at our Tottenham Court Road store to celebrate the launch of Made in London and enjoy London Gin & Tonics from Sipsmith, cider from Urban Orchard by Hawkes, beer from Redchurch Brewery and pies from Square Pie in Old Spitalfields Market. On there night there will also be a host of workshops for you to try your hand at including: 19th Century loom weaving with London Cloth Company; Soap cutting workshops with Soapsmith; Pottery painting with Amanda Sue-Rope; Chair caning with Rachael South; Furniture upholstery from Shoreditch Design Rooms; Surfboard shaping with Nof surfboards and Blackhorse Workshop; and Meet the Maker session with London Terrariums, Michael Ruh, Goldfinger Factory, Caitlin Hinshelwood and Jode Pankhurst. Amanda Sue-Rope Who's who at Made in London Blackhorse Workshops, E17 This collaborative group of talented designers will be showing a range of pieces, including oak furniture, handcrafted toys and musical instruments, as well as showing visitors how to make, recycle or upcycle items to create something wonderful. Caitlin Hinshelwood Caitlin Hinshelwood, SE16 Caitlin will be showing how, by using traditional techniques and methods and taking her inspiration from the natural world and folk traditions, she creates stunning and unique cushions and scarves. Jode Pankhurst Ceramics in the City, E8, E2, SE15 Jode Pankhurst, Amanda-Sue Rope, Sara Jeffries and Milo Made Ceramics will be on hand to show visitors the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into creating their beautiful and unusual pieces. Goldfinger Factory Goldfinger Factory, W10 Members of the team will be demonstrating their unique approach to design and craft and showing off their skills in bespoke furniture, interiors and jewellery. London Cloth Company London Cloth Company, E5 If you’ve always wondered how beautiful woven cloth is created, you’ll get the answers from the London Cloth Company. The first micro-mill to open in London, they will demonstrate the process on a restored shuttle loom from the 1800s. London Terrariums London Terrariums, SE15 Learn all about botanicals and how to garden under glass by attending one of London Terrariums much-loved workshops. Michael Ruh Michael Ruh, SE27 Glass-blowing is extraordinary to watch and Michael Ruh is a master of the art. Meet Michael and learn how he creates his stunning hand-crafted pieces. Rachael South Rachael South, E8 Talented furniture restorer and maker Rachael will be demonstrating her caning and weaving skills, many of which were picked up working with craftspeople in India, Central America and Europe. Shoreditch Design Rooms Shoreditch Design Rooms, E2 The talented people behind Shoreditch Design Rooms will be showcasing their eye-catching furniture and hosting a series of upholstery demonstrations. There will also be a series of workshops where you will be able to learn upholstery techniques from the makers themselves. Sipsmith Gin Sipsmith Gin, W4 Shopping can be thirsty work, which is why Sipsmith Gin will be on hand serving up their delicious London Dry Gin. Soapsmith Soapsmith, E17 Meet the producers of these delicious artisan soaps and lotions, which nourish the skin and rouse the senses. Discover the full programme of demonstrations, workshops and talks by visiting our Events page.