---

About to kick off its third annual outing, the May Design Series takes over the ExCeL for a spring showing of all things design.

---

Words by Emily Martin

May Design series returns to London for its third edition, with 'Curated for Business' as the overall theme. As well as an extensive international exhibitor list across five sectors of the show - furniture; kitchens, bedrooms & bathrooms; lighting; decor and future design, the show will include a complementary CPD accredited seminar and conference programme - a new feature for this year's show.

Other highlights include a selection of products that showcase the very newest design talent, including work from design students at Buckinghamshire New University, which has been influenced, inspired by or designed in collaboration with the industry. Birmingham City University has once again teamed up with Global Color Research and digital wall covering brand, Tektura, to explore near future trends.

The New Design Britain Awards, at the entrance to the show, will display the work of 30 finalists in six categories: interior design, architecture, furniture, fabrics, surfaces and accessories, with the winners announced live on 18 May. Some New Design Britain alumni will also be exhibiting as part of the feature.

Also new for 2015: May Design Series is partnering with CEDIA (Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association) to create a new audio-visual and home automation area, and Fabric Pavilion will showcase textiles from the most luxurious to multipurpose, the work of 40 UK designer/makers.

This year's show will include exhibitors from more than 25 countries and is expected to be the biggest yet. A full exhibitor list is available to view online, but here's a taster of what to expect.

Alhambra international
Visiting from Alicante, Spain, this company boasts a range of stylish textile designs to be on display.

Showcasing six new collections - Marais, Sapori, Allure, Country Garden, Stone Age and Lineage - its products are suitable for both commercial and domestic use. alhambraint.com

British Ceramic Tile
One of the UK's leading tile manufacturers will be showcasing its new Parian range of porcelain wall and floor tiles at the show, in addition to other ranges.

BCT supplies its products to national and international retailers, as well as builders and specifiers. britishceramictile.com

THG Paris
A French manufacturer of luxurious bathroom fittings and accessories, THG Paris is presenting its new Beyond Crystal collection, produced in collaboration with designer Rémi Tessier.

Responsible for equipping hotels, palaces and private residences all over the world, THG Paris has been recognised for its 'savoir-faire' and is considered by some as a symbol of French excellence. thg.fr

Egoitaliano
Southern Italian company Matera will be showcasing its softseating ranges that are '100 per cent Italianmade'.

Products on display will sample some of the company's 50 different models, including sofa beds and recliners, with designs available in five leather options and four fabric/microfibre choices. egoitaliano.com

Chad Lighting
Designer and manufacturer of contemporary luminaries for use in leisure, corporate and domestic environments, Chad Lighting creates products that are distinguished by their clean lines and elegant proportions. The company will be showcasing its table, floor and wall lights in addition to reading and task lights. chadlighting.co.uk

When
17 - 19 May

Where
ExCeL, London

Visit
maydesignseries.com