Introducing Factory Design District
Launching in June 2016, Factory Design District is a new three-day exhibition and event that will connect makers and manufacturers to a wider audience while uncovering the process of creation, from inception to realisation. In an industry that is continually evolving, a new appreciation for the soulful craftsmanship
of designer/makers and design manufacturers is heralding a shift in consumer behaviour. A growing demand for bespoke customisation and made-to-order designs has put the spotlight directly on Australia’s population of dedicated and skilled makers.
The founder of Factory Design District is the renowned Kobe Johns who hails from a background in event and project management, along with being the co-founder of JP Finsbury Bespoke Joiners. Her experience in working with designers and architects to create custom furniture and fit-outs has fuelled her passion to spread the word about local makers and to share the unique experience of owning hand made products.
Hosted at COMMUNE Makers in Erskineville, Factory Design District is presented as part of Vivid Ideas, a program that celebrates innovation, creativity and community during Vivid Sydney 27 May – 18 June 2016. Bringing together highly skilled and highly motivated designer/makers and design manufacturers, those exhibiting at Factory Design District work on both large and small-scale projects across both commercial and residential projects. The event will celebrate established designer/maker brands of Australia along with launching new ones.
Factory Design District started as a small intro exhibition of just four makers/designers as part of Sydney Indesign 2015. From these small beginnings, it became clear that a stand-alone event was needed that focused on allowing smaller practices the opportunity to speak with designers, architects and the public about the services they provide and what they do, as custom bespoke design leans more toward a collaborative process than simply purchasing something ready-made off the shelf.
In contrast to existing design exhibitions, Factory Design District is a presentation of wholly curated and considered Australian design and manufacturing. With a focus on authentic original design that is innovative, locally made and both economically and environmentally sustainable, all of the exhibitors participating in the event will be of the highest quality and hold these values at the core of their business.
The ethos of Factory Design District extends to food, wine and beer. Partners Young Henrys Brewing Company have curated an impressive local vendor line up including Bloodwood, A. Retief Wines, Mecca Coffee, Rising Sun and Continental Deli. Expect new culinary collaborations and daily specials from this eclectic crew.
The first official exhibitor announcement will be on 31 March 2016, so there is still time to accept a few more applications to exhibit as part of Factory Design District. You can register your interest with the organisers.
When: Thursday 2nd June – Sunday 5 June 2016
Where: Hosted at COMMUNE Makers, 9 Eve Street, Erskineville 2043
Opening night (invite only) 2 June 2016, 6pm – 9pm Friday 3 June 2016, 11am – 6pm
Saturday 4 June 2016, 11am – 5pm
Sunday 5 June 2016, 11am – 4pm
To find out more visit the website.
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