The art-infused yet serene courtyard of Somerset House, London, will come alive with creative energy from 5–29 June 2025, as it hosts the fifth edition of the London Design Biennale, themed ‘Surface Reflections.’
Isn’t the theme fascinating?
What makes it truly unique is that over 40 pavilions, each representing diverse perspectives and ideas, will showcase sustainable solutions to some of the most pressing issues facing humanity today.
The London Design Biennale isn’t merely a gathering for designers to present their views; it’s a platform for designers and architects to share bold perspectives with strong, actionable voices.
And the proof lies in the previous editions of the Biennale. From Utopia by Design to Emotional States, Resonance, and The Global Game: Remapping Collaborations, each represents the world’s condition and how it could be reshaped for the better. This year is no different.
According to Dr Samuel Ross, Artistic Director of the 2025 edition and the mind behind the theme Surface Reflections:
These words must resonate with every designer and solidify further as we take you for a tour of a few pavilions that ideate the belief of the theme.
House of Artisans - Abu Dhabi- Celebrating the culture that shaped the UAE of today in its own way
The House of Artisians by Abu Dhabi presents an immersive experience.
Titled as ‘‘Tides and Traditions: The Journey of Maritime Crafts and Heritage”, it brings a vital part of Emirati culture to the audience and explores the hardships and beauty of this marine community. From the harsh beauty of the sea to the communal spirit of coastal life, it pays tribute to the artisans.
Through the exhibits, the visitors explore not just the physical tools and skills of marine artisans, but also delve deeper into the emotional aspect of it.
Global Gateway - European Union - Sustainable global collaboration
The world is a community, and something similar is being represented through the ‘Global Gateway’ presented by the European Union. It is planned to unite people worldwide via durable, inclusive, and sustainable collaborations.
While taking a tour of the pavilion, one can see how well-thought-out concepts turn designs into action as they are reflected outward, influencing practical effects across continents.
At its core, the pavilion encourages you to see how intentional design choices can shape a better, more connected world.
Visuospace - Hong Kong- From perception to place
Hong Kong’s Visuospace theme is used to highlight the complex dependency of emotions on the environment or the stimuli. The theme dives deep into spatial design and psychology to understand human emotions. The pavilion explores cognitive patterns associated with various emotions, from identity to space to visual forms, to translate them into deep and primitive emotions.
The Soul of Seven Horizons - Turkey - An Emotional Reflection
Turkey’s theme—the Soul of Seven Horizons takes the audience through an emotional dialogue with the city of Istanbul, where contemporary design creates a perfect blend with the ancient soul and relics of Turkey.
Inspired by the iconic seven hills, the structure is created with a mix of LED responsive lighting, kinetic sculptures, thermal and motion sensors, ambient soundscapes, and who can forget the scent of traditional Turkish coffee — blending sensory art with intimate inner reflection.
The theme dictates that the audience feel gentle and subtle changes in emotions through motion and temperature; a beautiful testament to real-time interaction.
SUR ANDINA- Argentina- Heritage through immersive design
The pavilion by Argentina is titled ‘SUR ADINA’; created by Madre Tierra Designers demonstrates the team’s dedication to celebrating the identity, heritage, and sustainability of Argentina. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern design and immersive technologies, they capture the essence of Andean culture in a contemporary experience that resonates through time.
As said, “The ancestral knowledge and the living pulse of the land are evoked through the heart of the Andean world.”
Romania - Inner Reflections, Outer Worlds
A sculptural portal is what the pavilion of Romania is trying to depict within their understanding of Inner Reflections, Outer Worlds.
The sculpture encourages the public to contemplate narratives from various modern Romanian figures across different fields, each playing a vital role in enriching the nation’s continuously developing cultural legacy.
The central circular entrance serves as a gateway to real stories of people who shape Romanian culture and excellence. Inner Reflections, Outer Worlds highlights the deep link between storytelling and art, while also addressing global challenges like rapid technological change, climate issues, and social inclusion.
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