Curated by Yasmin Jones-Henry (founder of The Lab W1, previously co-founder of The Lab E20 and Financial Times writer), Amanda Johnston (Future Fabrics Expo), Professor Dilys Williams (University Arts London) and Louie-Joe Findlater (Film maker & photographer), this multifaceted programme has been assembled to support the unveiling of Soho as the newest design district to the London Design Festival, celebrating the area’s eclectic design heritage whilst tackling topics of urban regeneration, climate action, cultural identity and design innovation.

Drawing on the principles of regenerative by design, “Better Living By Design” seeks to address the themes of “placeshaping” and the reimagining of Soho through the lens of co-design. This exhibition brings together an ecosystem of higher education, industry, craft and community to convene meaningful stakeholder engagement as to what the future of Soho, Oxford St and Fitzrovia should look like for NextGen grassroots cultural production.

Join us on 17th September for a cross-sector collaboration championing the nextgen entrepreneurs, makers and material innovators for an evening of exploration, discussion and forming new connections and ecosystems.

Agenda: Doors Open 5.30pm

Session 1: 6pm

The Mills Fabrica: Quick fire presentations from: Circ, Colorifix, BioFluff, Ponda and Arda Biomaterials

Session 2: 6.45pm

Materials In My Life: panel discussion chaired by Amanda Johnston (Chief Design Officer, Future Fabrics Expo)

Session 3

Networking & Drinks Reception 7.30-8.30pm

Amy Tsang, Head of Europe, The Mills Fabrica shares: “We’re thrilled to take part in “Better Living By Design” at this year’s London Design Festival, where The Mills Fabrica will present five pioneering textile innovations - Circ, Colorifix, BioFluff, Ponda and Arda Biomaterials - each offering a new path toward more sustainable fashion. These solutions reflect the breadth of thinking needed to reshape an industry built on outdated systems, proving what’s possible when science, design and material innovation collide.”

This event is in collaboration with The Mills Fabrica, the Future Fabrics Expo & the Centre for Sustainable Fashion - UAL

Event: “Better Living By Design: Community, Craft & The Circular Economy”

Date: 16th September 2026

Time: 6-9pm

Location: The Groucho Club, Dean Street, Soho, W1D 4QB.

Hosted by Yasmin Jones-Henry (Financial Times writer & founder of The Lab W1), join us in celebration of the launch of Soho as the newest design district for the London Design Festival. Featuring a panel discussion with artists and designers:

Brodie Neill, Cassie Quinn, Bella Gonshorovitz, Katy Mason and Ella Doran.

The Groucho Club is a private members club to RSVP please click HERE

Join us for an immersive evening exploring the power of film and photography as a vehicle for storytelling across Regenerative Design and Climate Action.

Hosted by Louie-Joe Findlater (filmmaker and photographer) in collaboration with Raindance, as part of the Soho District's official programme for the London Design Festival this evening will be exploring:

• How can storytelling help us imagine and create better ways of living?

• What responsibilities do filmmakers have to the people and communities whose stories they tell?

• How can films move beyond awareness and contribute to meaningful change?

AGENDA

6:30–7:30pm – Drinks reception supported by Chene Bleu, with live music from Samson, the Chief of the Beach

7:30–8:15pm – Chief of the Beach preview & a selection of Raindance short films

8:15–8:45pm – Panel discussion

8:45–9:00pm – Audience Q&A