the northern design festival is a showcase of the best in contemporary design by leading northern, national and international designers across graphics, furniture, fashion, illustration, architecture, ceramics, textiles and lighting. ranging from turner prize winners to some of the ukʼs hottest emerging makers, this yearʼs festival has eight exhibitions featuring work by more than 65 designers and architects, plus a programme of special events, tours and talks from some of the worldʼs leading creatives. the 2016 northern design festival opens on 7 october with the inaugural design now symposium with a stellar line-up of speakers.

director karen nairstone said, “this yearʼs festival explores the creative inspiration behind the things that surround us every day; itʼs a theme that relates to us all, whether you work or study in the industry or just love good design, thereʼs something for everyone. once again we have some stunning hidden gem venues in newcastle city centre, including our festival hub – the assembly house, and cooperʼs studios – perfect backdrops against which to showcase the best in contemporary design.”