Spaces, Style, and the Inner Self: Habitat Explores the Evolving Relationship with Homes

As a design enthusiast with a deep appreciation for the transformative power of interior spaces, I was thrilled to attend the recent celebration of Habitat’s 60th anniversary at the Design Museum in London. The evening was a delightful journey through the brand’s rich history and the role it has played in shaping contemporary design today.

A home is made special by the little things, and for one night, the Design Museum in London played host to an intimate gathering marking Habitat’s 60-year milestone.

Last week, a unique event hosted by Habitat welcomed industry professionals and design lovers to explore the influence of interior design through the “Changing Space: 60 Years of Design with Habitat” exhibition. The entrance of the venue was adorned with Habitat-designed homeware items and creations from guest designers, leading from the outdoor area into the indoor atrium. This vibrant display reflected Habitat’s lighthearted design philosophy that has evolved living spaces over the past six decades.

When attendees arrived, they began by discovering the vibrant history of the brand outside, where they found a variety of whimsical seating options for a sunlit gathering. Next, they were led indoors to the “Create” area, where they watched a presentation on pottery. Afterward, they entered “Transform,” an interactive space featuring lighting and textile components. The “Connect” section, located at the edge of the display, showcased historical pieces such as the 1964 Poulet Chicken Brick and the early ’70s Crayonne Store Pot.

After the exclusive preview, everyone found their places for an engaging panel discourse. With the artwork serving as a captivating backdrop, Andrew Tanner, head of Habitat design, senior homeware designer Dave Hutcheson, renowned craft designer Simone Brewster, and Alice Morby, design editor at TopMob, initiated the dialogue on “The Art of Home.” In his welcoming remarks, Tim Marlow, Design Museum director, honored Sir Terence Conran, the founder of the renowned British homeware brand and the initial visionary behind the Design Museum. Conran’s impact on modern design is profound, and his tale set the stage for this stimulating hour-long dialogue.

Spaces, Style, and the Inner Self: Habitat Explores the Evolving Relationship with Homes

Tanner expressed his enthusiasm as a designer, commenting on how unique each person’s living space is today. Rather than dictating usage, they provide more options for self-expression through their designs. This topic sparked conversations about personalization, fashion, and individual styles, resulting in Hutcheson sharing the importance of catering to various needs and preferences within Habitat’s product range.

As a designer, Brewster appreciates the diversity and richness of ideas in the design industry that make creations engaging and captivating. In collaboration with Habitat for their 60th anniversary collection, she drew inspiration from the brand’s archives to combine her affinity for bold colors from the ’70s with her unique color compositions for a set of three vivid rugs. Brewster attributes her achievements to working in an environment where her home and studio merge, allowing her to be true to her creative self and produce authentic designs, ranging from rugs to jewelry.

Discussions in London focused on maximizing living spaces and making the most of available area. With experience from residing in nine distinct rentals, Morby emphasized the significance of adaptable home furnishings. She highlighted both convenience for effortless relocation and sentimental attachments to cherished items in new environments. “People place greater value on possessions that resonate with them,” she shared. “By designing something captivating, we ensure it becomes a cherished keepsake, moving with its owners – truly embodying sustainable design.”

After the panel discussion ended, the guests carried on talking, exchanging stories about their personal experiences with houses, treasured items, and designing environments that enhance their daily existence.

Look back at Habitat’s 60th anniversary event in the gallery above.

If you’d like to discover more information about the complimentary exhibit running at the Design Museum through August 11th, please visit their website now.

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