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The 18th edition of the London Design Festival (12 – 20 September) will no doubt be a unique one. In light of the global pandemic, the annual celebration of design will look a little different, with a focus on outdoor installations and an array of online events. The organisers intend it as ‘a symbol of London’s determination to maintain its creative and cultural leadership’. Here’s our pick of what to look out for

Connected Nine international designers have been challenged to create a table and seating that respond to their new ways of working from and living at home during Covid-19 lockdowns. Brought together by the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), Benchmark Furniture and the Design Museum, the designers involved are: Ini Archibong, Maria Bruun, Jaime Hayon, Heatherwick Studio, Sebastian Herkner, Maria Jeglinska-Adamczewska, Sabine Marcelis (pictured), Studiopepe and Studio Swine. Amid the pandemic, the designers have been collaborating with Benchmark’s craftsmen remotely and virtually in order to create the hardwood furniture. The resulting pieces will be shown at the Design Museum, accompanied by a documentarystyle film recording the creative process.

The Hothouse by Studio Weave London-based architecture practice Studio Weave presents The Hothouse, a large-scale installation and Landmark Project at International Quarter London (IQL) in Stratford. Reminiscent of a Victorian glasshouse and in situ for a year, The Hothouse will provide a controlled habitat for cultivating an array of international plants – such as guava, pomegranate, mango and pineapple. Though these plants are not grown outdoors in the UK due to climate, the current rate of climate change means they could well be by 2050. ‘We hope this little hot house acts as a continual reminder of our fragile relationship with nature,’ says Studio Weave director Je Ahn, ‘while allowing us to rediscover the simple and enriching pleasure of looking after beautiful plants.’

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