(UK) – [d]arc media is set to illuminate Clerkenwell Design Week once again with its highly anticipated [d]arc thoughts talks programme and event lineup, including the Women in Industry networking brunch, designed to champion inclusivity and leadership across the design world. 

Held at the House of Detention from 20–22 May, [d]arc thoughts return for its third consecutive year, bringing together designers, architects, and lighting professionals to explore the relationship between light and interior design. Curated by the team at [d]arc media, the talks, sponsored by David Village Lighting, are free to attend. 

Across three days, visitors can expect a mix of panel discussions, project deep-dives, and in-depth conversations with some of the industry’s most creative minds. Highlights include: 

• Sofia Hagen in Conversation: Sarah Cullen speaks with Sofia Hagen on the recent launch of the HEMPLA bench. 
• The Hotelification of the Workspace: An expert panel featuring Beata Denton (Reflex Arkitekter), Gurvinder Khurana (M Moser Associates), and John Williams (SpaceInvader) discuss how workplaces are evolving to become more human-centred and hospitality-inspired. 
• Project Spotlights: From the Lina Stores in Shoreditch, by A-nrd Studio, to BoTree Hotel by Concrete Amsterdam and dpa lighting consultants. 
• Residential Lighting Panel: Our design experts Jo Calver (Isla James Interiors); Toria Thorpe (Lighting by Plum); and Jack Spivey (David Village Lighting) discuss the current trends and challenges facing high-end residential projects.
• Alex Dauley in Conversation: Sarah Cullen interviews interior designer Alex Dauley on her career to date, and her passionate advocacy for inclusivity in the design world.
• The Power of Narrative: Tony Matters of Faber Design explores how storytelling shapes spatial experiences in hospitality design.
• David Collins Studio in Conversation: Sarah Cullen interviews design director Lewis Taylor. 

See the full event programme here

The programme coincides with the official launch of Stories with Light on Wednesday evening. The new book, curated by Francis Pearce and Michael Grubb, celebrates the wonder and science of illumination. Supported by Applelec in partnership with GENLED Acolyte, the book launch will be followed by an informal drinks reception click here to RSVP.

On 22 May, before the final day of talks begins, [d]arc media will host its second Women in Industry networking brunch at Design Fields. This vital event offers a platform for women across multiple disciplines – including architecture, lighting, furniture, and workplace design – to connect and collaborate. 

Co-hosted with leading organisations like Women in Lighting, Women in Office Design, and Women in Architecture. The brunch brings together industry leaders such as, Rachael Davidson (Smiths / WIA), Carmela Dagnello (Flos / WIL), and Harsha Kotak (WOD), alongside [d]arc media’s managing editor Helen Ankers. The discussion will delve into topics of diversity, leadership, mentorship, and the evolving role of women in shaping the built environment. 

www.clerkenwelldesignweek.com