On 3rd July 2025, Commercial Interiors UK (CIUK) took its summer celebration to new heights - quite literally - swapping the traditional BBQ for a sold-out summer party at one of London’s most iconic venues, The Gherkin. Against a backdrop of sweeping 360° skyline views, over 250 designers, suppliers, and industry insiders gathered for an evening filled with music, connection, and the unmistakable energy that defines the commercial interiors community.
The event delivered on its promise of a fresh, reimagined summer gathering, welcoming guests with signature cocktails ranging from Hugo Spritz to Espresso Martinis, setting the tone for a vibrant evening ahead. As the live DJ curated the soundtrack, conversations buzzed across the glass-wrapped venue, with attendees soaking in a beautiful sunset over London that bathed the city in golden hues, adding an unforgettable touch of magic to the evening.
Reflecting the atmosphere of the evening, a member shared: 'We had a great time last week in the Gherkin, amazing views!'
Food was thoughtfully curated, with Searcys’ selection of bowl food ensuring everyone was well-fed while networking. The atmosphere remained relaxed yet purposeful, reflecting CIUK’s commitment to building meaningful, people-focused connections within the industry.
The mix of people and place resonated with attendees, with one member sharing: 'The Venue was incredible! People were great too, a good mix of designers and suppliers.'
The Gherkin’s unique setting encouraged organic conversations, with attendees noting how the change of venue and format elevated the event beyond a typical summer gathering. The panoramic views became a talking point in themselves, offering a rare chance to enjoy London’s landmarks while discussing current projects and shared challenges in the industry.
Sponsors PS Interiors and Seltex Wallcoverings played an important role in bringing this event to life, showcasing their ongoing commitment to supporting the commercial interiors community. With PS Interiors’ 40 years in the industry delivering tailored European-manufactured contract furniture, and Seltex’s decades of excellence in bespoke wallcoverings, the partnership underscored the evening’s focus on quality, design, and the enduring value of industry collaboration.
The evening concluded at 11pm, with guests leaving inspired and connected. For many, the event became a highlight of the summer calendar, proving that evolving how we gather can breathe fresh energy into our industry connections.
It was a sentiment echoed, with a member saying: 'This was pretty special. Location was brilliant, also, I met some great people and firmed up some old relationships.'
As we continue to navigate the commercial landscape, events like these are vital in reinforcing the value of shared spaces, both in the projects we design and the networks we build. We look forward to seeing the friendships forged at The Gherkin translate into future collaborations, projects, and continued success for our community.