Introduction: Where Design Meets Innovation
If you’re passionate about architecture, interior design, or specification work, then the Surface Design Show in London is a must-attend event. Known as the premier UK showcase for material innovation, this annual trade exhibition brings together hundreds of surface specialists, product innovators, and design professionals—all eager to explore the latest material breakthroughs, aesthetics, and applications for both interior and exterior environments.
Venue, Dates & Schedule
The 2025 edition of the Surface Design Show will be held at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London. Located at 52 Upper Street, the venue is easily accessible via the Angel station on the Northern Line or Highbury & Islington, and benefits from excellent bus links
The opening hours are:
- Tuesday, 4 February: 16:00 – 21:00
- Wednesday, 5 February: 10:00 – 20:00
- Thursday, 6 February: 10:00 – 17:00
Admission Information
The event is free to attend for trade professionals, including architects, interior designers, specifiers, contractors, and related A&D roles. Advance online registration is required to secure your place and create a personalised itinerary. Special passes, including VIP or SBID-accredited CPD access, can be arranged.
Explore Hundreds of Exhibitors
With over 180 companies showcased in 2025, the surface sector’s breadth and depth shine through. Exhibitors range from established material brands to emerging specialists in next-generation surfaces—exploring everything from natural stone and timber to laminates, digital ceramics, coatings, textiles, and sustainable composites.
Main Attractions & Feature Zones
Innovation Gallery
This is the zone for spotting emerging and disruptive products—ideal for sourcing the next trend for interiors or architectural projects .
Surface Spotlight Live
A tactile exploration of bold, tactile, and visually compelling surfaces—perfect for hands-on discovery.
Stone Knowledge Hub
Developed in partnership with Stone Federation, this section focuses on stone materials, finishes, and applications, offering in-depth knowledge on natural surface selection .
Learning Programme: Main Stage Talks
The Surface Design Show includes over 40 expert speakers presenting on timely themes and topics. These include debates on the ethics of AI‑driven design, circular material passports, wellness surfaces, stone sustainability, and trend forecasting. Attendees can expect to leave with CPD-accredited insights and actionable ideas.
Why Attend? Key Benefits
Discover Cutting‑Edge Materials
The exhibition brings innovative products to your fingertips—many of which have never been seen in the UK before. It’s your chance to evaluate textures, finishes, and technologies in person before specifying them in projects.
Stay Ahead of Trends
With access to trend-predicting talks and curated zones, you’ll gain foresight into the next wave of surface innovations—from sustainability to smart coatings, wellness-focused finishes, and digital fabrication.
Engage with Thought Leaders
Every panel session and keynote is an opportunity to learn from industry pioneers and ask practical questions about implementation, sourcing, and specification.
Network with Industry Professionals
Joining thousands of A&D attendees, the Surface Design Show is a hub for meeting suppliers, peers, consultants, and future collaborators in a focused atmosphere.
Source Materials Efficiently
Save time and effort—whether your project involves hospitality, commercial interiors, façade treatments, or residential finishes, you’ll meet relevant surface suppliers in one convenient location.
Venue Amenities and Practical Perks
- Central London transport access via Angel, Highbury & Islington, King’s Cross, buses, and taxis.
- On-site catering, lounges, and informal meeting spaces
- Fully accessible facilities, including wheelchair access and services for all needs
- Evening opening on Day 1 allows you to explore without missing prime work hours
- Industry trading evening on the opening night provides a focused networking opportunity
Accommodation Tips
As the BDC lies in Islington, the following areas are excellent choices:
- Angel and Upper Street offer boutique and chain hotels within walking distance
- King’s Cross and nearby zones serve as larger-scale accommodation hubs
- City-centre hotels are accessible via a short bus or Underground journey
Early booking is strongly advised as February sees a rise in design and tech events across London.
Visitor Advice: Make Your Visit Effective
- Pre-register online and download the exhibitor directory and talk schedule
- Plan around zones—Innovation Gallery and Materials Hub first, then stage sessions
- Use the Surface Spotlight and Stone Hub to shortlist tactile materials
- Bring order forms, samples, or swatches—many suppliers offer show incentives
- Bring a sketchbook or tablet—capture inspiration directly
- Arrive early on opening night to network before the crowd
- Take notes during talks and collect presentation slides or attendance certificates if CPD applies
Who Should Attend
The show is intended for professionals involved in:
- Architecture and interior design
- Commercial and residential specification
- Materials supply and product development
- Contract fitting and project management
- Product R&D, manufacturing, and innovation
- Sustainability consulting and building science
Final Thoughts
The Surface Design Show is not simply about materials—it’s an immersive encounter with the future of surfaces in design. Whether you’re sourcing products for your next project, staying updated on ethical and sustainable finish options, or just hungry for industry insight, this event delivers inspiration, education, and connection—all in a compact and highly curated space.
Mark your calendar for early February and surround yourself with the textures, materials, and ideas that will shape tomorrow’s interiors.
Visit and book your tickets here: https://www.surfacedesignshow.com