FOCUS/20 Schedule
Sunday 13 September: Virtual launch
Monday 14 – Friday 18 September: Online programme and tailored visits for trade professionals. See the full Focus/20 schedule.
Are you looking forward to this year's Focus/20?
GK: Yes, I've been going to Focus for almost 20 years and this Autumn I'm looking forward to seeing its transition to an event that is both actual and virtual! We access so much online now, that it's going to be really exciting to discover the possibilities of using the web as a gateway to seeing new collections and inspiration from some of the design world's greatest figures.
There are certainly a few virtual events that I suspect might never have happened in the real world - and would certainly never have attracted the huge global audiences that this year's programme will offer.
This year's highlights include some of the most iconic names in interiors from Emma Burns, leading light at iconic British interior designers Sibyl Colefax & John Fowler to Michael S Smith, one of the most celebrated decorators in the US who transformed the interiors of The White House.
What are the highlights for you?
Well, one of them is my interview with Emma Burns (at 4pm on Wednesday 16 September), who I consider to be one of the most talented and intuitive designers working today. She's a beacon of the very best of classic English style. The talk is free to view — you can register for a place at dcch.co.uk.
Also, I'm so much looking forward to hearing a vast range of really inspirational figures, as well as a new programme of Right Here, Right Now events that will focus on specific areas with experts such as Sally Storey, Porta Romana and Original BTC on lighting, Bernie de Le Cuona on trends in textiles, David Harris of Andrew Martin on colour.
And what about new collections?
That's the magnet that's been drawing me back to Focus every year. I love the thrill and excitement of seeing collections unveiled - and there are some particular highlights such as Ben Pentreath's fresh take of William Morris at Morris & Co., new designs from GP & J Baker, as well as a host of other really inventive designers such as Vaughan, Julian Chichester and Turnstyle Designs.
What are the other attractions of the Design Centre, both in its physical and virtual incarnation?
It's the beating heart of the interior design world; I can't think of anywhere else on earth that offers the same depth and breadth of furniture, textiles, wallpaper, lighting. But one of its most unique commodities is inspiration and there'll be plenty of that available during Focus/20.
For more details on the online programme and to catch up on talks, masterclasses and webinars, as well as Discovery Tours, Style Radar discussions and sessions with the Personal Shopper, visit dcch.co.uk/Focus
-
Dawn Chorus: A Blue Plaque for Marc Bolan, holidaying in the Caribbean with Francis Ford Coppola and a history of the National Gallery in 25 picturesPlus the best of the property pages, and how the railways will save the countryside.
-
Game, set, match: 12 of the world’s most beautiful tennis courtsFrom Italy to Indonesia, when it comes to hotel amenities, a picturesque tennis court will always trump a 24-hour gym. So, before you book your next holiday, take a look at our pick of the 12 best.
-
G. Collins & Sons: Experts in the exquisiteG. Collins & Sons has been a beacon of experience and expertise in the world of fine jewellery for the past 40 years.
-
FREYWILLE: Works of artFamous paintings by some of the greatest artists the world has ever seen are the inspiration behind exquisite new collections created by jeweller FREYWILLE.
-
Nicholsons Garden Design: Intuitive design with climate and Nature in mindGardens that support Nature are beautiful, says RHS judge Liz Nicholson, managing director of Nicholsons Garden Design, which green-audits the 2024 Chelsea Flower Show.
-
The Welsh WaySustainable, ethical and unmatched for taste, Welsh Lamb is as good as meat gets.
-
Discover why the Cotswolds continues to be England’s favourite area to live — and how it appeals to all generationsWith miles of cobbled streets lined with historic houses, you'll find celebrated farm shops, buzzing private members’ clubs and quintessential country style in abundance in the Cotswolds — so it's easy to see why so many people are making the move to call the Cotswolds home.
-
Tetrad's fine furniture: Traditional craft and timeless styles since 1968For over 50 years, Tetrad has been making fine British upholstery to the highest standards.
-
Dior's Touch of FrostThe first sprinkling of frost heralds that winter is on its way. Here, we showcase Dior’s exquisite jewellery and accessories hidden in a winter garden, each drawing inspiration from Nature, especially roses — magical in the icy months and the perfect adornment for the festive season.
-
How R Moulding & Co use their 224 years of experience to create and restore some of Britain's most beautiful housesThe purpose of the best restoration projects is not to turn back the clock. Instead, it’s an exciting opportunity to create beautiful buildings that are resilient, comfortable and sustainable, offering the best of old and new, says Tim Moulding, of traditional builders and craftspeople R Moulding & Co.
