Emerging furniture talent showcased at New Furniture Makers Exhibition 2026

The New Furniture Makers Exhibition returns to the City of London for one day only on 4 November 2026, offering industry the opportunity to connect with creative designer-makers looking to make an impact on the sector

Organised by The Furniture Makers’ Company, the event showcases the very best in furniture and furnishing design talent, from GCSE students to recent graduates. The New Furniture Maker Awards are the student equivalent of the Furniture Makers’ Guild Marks, recognising excellence and the future of design. A huge number of entries are submitted every year for these highly competitive awards.

Visitors to the New Furniture Makers Exhibition will discover exceptional craftsmanship, innovative ideas and beautifully made furniture from some of the UK’s most exciting emerging makers.

NEW FURNITURE MAKERS AWARDS

Bespoke Award – sponsored by the Roger Richardson Legacy Fund

Recognises excellent craftsmanship in pieces with a clear and specific purpose, made by designer-makers in higher education.

Design Award – sponsored by NaughtOne

Recognises the highest standards in furniture design for a piece or range intended for mass production by designer-makers in higher education.

Textile Award – sponsored by House of Sonnaz

Recognises an excellent piece that incorporates textiles to complement the finish or effect of the design.

Manufacturing Apprentice Award – sponsored by Achieve and Partners

Recognises exceptional work and craftsmanship in a furniture piece made by an apprentice during their apprenticeship.

Bespoke Apprentice Award – sponsored by Achieve and Partners

Recognises exceptional work and craftsmanship in a furniture piece made by an apprentice during their apprenticeship.

Upholstery Award – sponsored by House of Sonnaz

Judges will assess applicants on the merit of excellence in making and their demonstration of the value of their piece.

PRIZES

The School Design Prize (GCSE/A Level/Level 3) – sponsored by KI

The Best Chair in Show Prize – sponsored by MEON

The Best in Show Prize – sponsored by Blum

The Leather Prize – sponsored by the Leathersellers’ Company

The Staples & Co Commission – sponsored by Staples & Co

One winner will receive a £1,000 cash prize, plus the opportunity to design a headboard that will become part of the Staples & Co collection.

EVENT DETAILS

New Furniture Makers Exhibition – sponsored by Staples & Co

Wednesday 4 November 2026

2–9pm

Furniture Makers' Hall and the Dutch Church, Austin Friars, London

To book a free ticket and register your place, ⁠click here.

For further information on The Furniture Makers' Company and the New Furniture Makers Exhibition 2026, click here.