TOP PICKS DURING TRI DESIGN FESTIVAL

Knightsbridge has long been one of London’s key design destinations, ever since the linen merchant Benjamin Harvey and grocer-draper Charles Henry Harrod both chose it as the sweet spot to set up shop in the 1830s and ’40s (eventually giving rise to two of the city’s most famous and exclusive department stores, Harvey Nichols and Harrods, still going strong today).

Knightsbridge and its environs fast became one of the city’s most sought-after areas to live and play – and this is being celebrated this month with an ambitious new festival.

Over four jam-packed days, the inaugural TRI Design Festival is bringing the area’s design communities together to give visitors – locals, industry insiders and those simply curious of mind – the chance to inspire all the senses. Here’s our pick of what not to miss.

Join a special complimentary masterclass curated by Harrods’ interior stylist Alison Husbands on the art of tablescaping, learning how to layer with tableware, linens, flowers and lighting – all sourced from Harrods’ extensive collection of homeware brands – to create the most enticing scene for any occasion, from a leisurely lunch to a glamorous dinner (for two or ten).

Friday 13 March, 11am-1pm; book here

Attend a lively discussion (one for property buffs) about the rising trend of translating hotel design and style into private living spaces through alignments with trusted brand collaborations. Letitia Fitzgibbon, head of Harrods Interior Design, Vanessa Brady OBE, founder and CEO of SBID (the professional body for interior designers), and a speaker from Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London will give their insights into serving the new breed of design-savvy global clients demanding five-star luxury wherever they go.

Thursday 12 March, 6.30pm-8.30pm; book here

As the hospitality industry increasingly inspires how we design and dress our own homes, Charlotte Keesing, director of Walpole (the official body promoting, protecting and developing British luxury), will discuss with representatives from The Berkeley and The Lanesborough, two of the area’s most prestigious hotels, how a mix of design, craftsmanship, artistic and creative collaborations are transforming hotels into vital, exciting, convivial cultural hubs for people to come together and create new dialogues, rather than simply being places to lay your head at night. While at The Lanesborough, be sure to take in its incredible collection of antique and old masters paintings, as well as new works by rising star Lucas Console-Verma, curated as part of the hotel’s Art Programme, shown in the beautiful light-filled room of the Lanesborough Grill.

Thursday 12 March, 12pm-2pm; book here

Join leading voices in lifestyle-first interior design for an intimate and thought-provoking conversation exploring the future of luxury interiors, set within the architecturally ambitious flagship London showroom of acclaimed Milanese designer Visionnaire. Moderated by TRI Design curator Bilen Zeremariam, the panel will feature Jane Landino, head of design and creative studio at Taylor Howes, Kemsi founder Carmelina Dalton and Alex Dauley (design consultant and co-founder of the charity United in Design). Expect to hear their insights on everything from longevity-inspired spaces with cold plunge and infrared wellness rooms, to multi-generational living and the rise of the heirloom home.

Thursday 12 March, 2pm-4pm; book here

Award-winning clinic Serene Dental has turned the dread of going to the dentist into a dream visit to what is more akin to the sophisticated elegance of a luxury spa rather than the waiting room of your local dental practice. Founded by Dr Safa Al-Naher in 2021, Serene Dental has become a leader in pioneering treatments and techniques, set within a soothing space where even the most nervous patient will be reassured by the practice’s breakthrough approach to creating a calm, sensory experience (including the use of guided meditation and nitrous oxide to combat anxiety). During TRI Design, Dr Safa will lead guided tours and informal chats, where every visitor will leave with a curated tote bag and peace of mind, knowing that taking care of our teeth is not only good for the body, but good for the soul.

Friday 13 March, 9am-5pm; drop in or prebook your visit here

Fiona McCarthy is a lifestyle journalist, international contributing editor and author who covers design, interiors, fashion, beauty, food and travel for the UK’s leading newspapers and design titles, including The Times and Times Luxury, The Telegraph, FT, Elle Decoration, House & Garden, Conde Nast Traveller and Homes & Gardens. Follow Fiona on @thechicshopper