(UK) – For the first time in its 42-year history, Decorex successfully turned virtual for a three-day event this November.

From 17-19 November 2020, Decorex Virtual brought the industry together, welcoming design professionals from across the world for three days of inspiration, specification and connection. The digital event drew over 4,000 unique visitors, with 69% from the UK and 31% were international.

Decorex’s Event Director Sam Fisher comments” “It was amazing to see the global interior design community reunite, albeit digitally, at Decorex Virtual last week. We welcomed thousands from across the world who met, listened, explored and networked with suppliers and peers. Despite being virtual, it still felt like the celebration of design that we are used to at our physical event, and makes us all the more excited to welcome the industry back to Olympia next year.”

Attendees were inspired by online multi-sensory experience, The Great Escapes where five hand-picked designers including Campbell-Rey, Elicyon, Dauley Design, Louise Wicksteed Interiors and VSP Interiors, created 3D visualisations of their ultimate ‘happy places’. The three-day Talks Programme was packed with thought-provoking debates on design-led topics and key issues facing the industry today. Highlights include House & Garden in conversation with interior designer Susie Atkinson and cutting through the greenwash with Sustainable Sourcing For Interior Designers.

London-based lighting design atelier Haberdashery launched Bloom, a new lighting collection inspired by the first blooms of spring, and SBID award-winner Tigermoth Lighting presented Compass, an elegant lighting collection with natural marble detailing.

This year the Decorex Design Awards were judged by Alison Henry of Alison Henry Design Studio, Bhavin Taylor of Bhavin Taylor Design and Sara Cosgrove of Sara Cosgrove Design Studio. Fabric and wallpaper brand Newton Paisley won Best Exhibitor Profile with their intricate and elegant designs, all created and hand-drawn by conservation biologist Susy Paisley and Best Sustainable Product was awarded to furniture maker Angus Ross for his Prism Chair in ash with a rush seat. VSP Interiorsscooped up the award for the Best Great Escape with their Rococo retreat and ceramicist Katie Spragg was awarded Best Future Heritage Alumni. A Special Award from the judges for their attention to diversity went to the Turquoise Mountain organisation and specialists D&A Binder were awarded Best Product for the Haberdashery Counter.

“Whilst there is nothing like meeting people and their products, the virtual meetings have been great to get to know suppliers both new and existing. Meetings this way can even be more productive as they are “1-to-1″ focussed. I am sure that it has been helpful for exhibitors to see us in our own habitats too!” says Designer, David Wilder Interior Design.

“The last few days have been a great opportunity to connect with new and existing trade customers. We have missed the physical show but this virtual experience has been the next best thing. It’s been really positive to hear and understand how people within the industry have been adapting to new ways of working and connecting to make the most of a challenging year. We are looking forward to next year already!” says Laura Fowles, Business Development Manager of sofa.com.