London has once again become the world’s stage for design innovation as the London Design Biennale 2025 transformed Somerset House into a crucible of creative expression, dialogue, and international collaboration this June.
A Gathering of Global Visionaries
From June 5th to 29th, the heart of London pulsed with creativity as over 30 pavilions—representing countries, cities, designers, and organizations—brought together ideas that traverse boundaries. This year, the Biennale embraced the intriguing theme of “Surface Reflections,” chosen by Artistic Director Dr. Samuel Ross MBE. Visitors were encouraged to look beyond appearances, exploring how internal sensations, collective memory, and material cultures shape the visible world.
What Lay Beneath the Surface?
Every corner of Somerset House offered a new perspective on design’s power to tell stories and inspire change:
- Japan’s “Paper Clouds” Pavilion captivated visitors with its cloud-like hand-crafted Washi paper drifting overhead, inviting reflection on transience and minimalism.
- In other spaces, everyday materials like stone and fossils were reimagined—think speakers fashioned from geological remnants—while some immersive installations shone a light on rarely-seen aspects of urban life including invisible infrastructure, ecological cycles, and emotional labor.
- Historical reflection met cutting-edge experiment, from the reconstruction of the world’s earliest organizational chart to live demonstrations of innovative techniques that blend tradition with the avant-garde.
Conversations for the Future
A highlight of the Biennale was the Global Design Forum (June 10–12), where international thought leaders, such as architect Kengo Kuma and economist Mariana Mazzucato, took center stage. Their dialogue tackled pressing questions about design’s role in shaping sustainable and equitable futures.
Engaging the Public
Open daily to all, the Biennale invited visitors—from seasoned designers to curious families—to immerse themselves in a multisensory adventure. The special Friday Late event on June 27th added excitement with live performances and music, making the experience even more memorable.
Why the Biennale Matters
The London Design Biennale 2025 went far beyond a display of beautiful objects. It became a living laboratory—challenging, inspiring, and connecting people from all walks of life. By delving beneath the surface of design, this edition showed how creativity can foster understanding among cultures and prompt us to rethink our place in the world.
