We began the day as we often do in the studio with coffee and conversation, aligning on what we were hoping to find and looking forward to the energy and creativity that New Designers always brings.

For us, attending exhibitions like New Designers is more than a celebration of emerging talent, it’s an opportunity to connect with the future of our industry. We believe that supporting the next generation of designers is vital to shaping a bold, progressive future for British design.

At Allermuir, we design for the evolving rhythms of everyday life where the boundaries between personal and professional lives continue to blur. Attending exhibitions like New Designers allows us to engage directly with emerging creatives who are navigating these same shifts and responding with fresh, meaningful ideas.

As we moved through the exhibition, we weren’t just looking for design-led furniture, we were looking for thinking. Ideas that reflect an understanding of how people really live and work today. We were drawn to work that considered not only form and function but also adaptability, longevity, and the role of design in a more sustainable future.

Our award recognises creativity that’s grounded in the real world, timeless, human-centred, and purposeful. We’re inspired by designs that are as thoughtful in concept as they are refined in execution, work that speaks to modern life’s fluidity while remaining rooted in usability and innovation.

This is when we noticed Libby and her Bakery Stools from Northumbria University. From the outset, Libby demonstrated a clear understanding of the real world, how people live, how products are made, and how they fit within a market. Her communication was creative, clear, and considered, showing a strong awareness of commercial relevance without compromising her design vision.

What stood out was not just the aesthetic quality of the work, but the depth of thought behind it. Libby showed a sophisticated grasp of form and function, paired with attention to detail that elevated the concept into something truly viable. She considered manufacturing, materials, and positioning all through a lens of design that felt both fresh and purposeful. It was that balance of creative flair and strategic thinking that made her our clear winner.

Alongside Libby, we selected nine other designers to receive our Love Tags, a small but meaningful way to recognise work that resonated with us. These projects spanned more than just furniture design; they captured ideas that were thoughtful, original, and inspiring. Whether through material innovation, storytelling, or unexpected problem-solving, each piece reflected a strong point of view and a sense of purpose.

We were beyond impressed by the standard of work exhibited. The level of thinking, craft, and creativity on display was exceptional, and it left us feeling optimistic about where design is headed. There’s a bright future ahead and we’re excited to continue supporting the talent that will shape it.



Watch this space @allermuir.