Africa Design Week launches at London's Crafts Council in July 2027

Africa Design Week is a new fixture for London's design calendar, and it comes from someone who knows the industry from both sides. Bilen Zeremariam, editor-in-chief of OLISE Magazine, spent some 20 years working on residential and commercial interiors before turning to publishing. Born and raised in London, where she also studied at the University of the Arts London, she describes the city as a natural starting point. Her ambitions go further, though: she hopes the festival becomes a properly international platform linking Africa with the rest of the world.

The first edition runs over three days at the Crafts Council1. Zeremariam promises a mix of established and emerging names showing collectible furniture, contemporary art, craft and immersive installations, alongside talks and cultural events. There will also be networking and knowledge-sharing aimed at the makers themselves, so that the work leads to real opportunities. Her central point is that there is no single African design: a continent of 54 countries, each with its own materials and traditions, and plenty of designers doing experimental, forward-looking work rather than relying on heritage alone.

Dates are set for 8 to 10 July 2027. Ticketing and programme details aren't in the piece, so check closer to the time. Worth a diary note for anyone curious about design beyond the usual European circuit.

Our summary of a story from Livingetc, published 30 October 2026. Read the original