Following three busy days at the Business Design Centre, Commercial Interiors UK’s (CIUK) presence at Surface Design Show 2026 proved highly successful, delivering strong visibility, meaningful engagement and clear value for members across materials, networking and thought leadership.
Across the show, CIUK focused on creating touchpoints that put our accredited suppliers directly in front of active specifiers, while positioning materials firmly within wider design conversations.
Strong footfall and engagement at the CIUK stand
CIUK’s Supplier Finder Material Library at Stand 626 became a busy destination throughout the show, welcoming more than 250 architects, designers and specifiers over the three days. Featuring samples from 32 accredited member brands, the stand encouraged hands-on material exploration and direct conversations around specification, performance and application.
The collective library format proved particularly effective, allowing visitors to compare materials side by side while discovering new suppliers within a trusted, accredited framework. QR-code access to Supplier Finder profiles supported immediate follow-up, extending conversations well beyond the show floor.
For members, this translated into high-quality exposure to an engaged audience actively sourcing materials, with CIUK accreditation acting as a clear marker of credibility and assurance.
Main-stage talk highlights role of materials in hospitality
CIUK’s main-stage panel discussion, Hospitality by Design: Materials, Trends and Innovation, was fully attended, underlining strong appetite for insight-led discussion around materiality in hospitality environments.
The session placed materials at the heart of experience-driven design, exploring how specification decisions shape atmosphere, durability and guest perception. By contributing to this broader conversation, CIUK reinforced the relevance of its member suppliers at early concept and decision-making stages, where long-term value is defined.
Breakfast networking drives focused connections
Away from the show floor, CIUK’s breakfast networking event at the Silent Gliss showroom welcomed over 50 guests, offering a more intimate setting for conversation and connection.
Hosted around The Harmony Suite installation, developed with Studio Moren, the morning provided valuable insight into how supplier collaboration, technology and craftsmanship come together in real hospitality settings. The relaxed format encouraged meaningful dialogue between designers and suppliers before the show day began, strengthening relationships in a way that traditional exhibition encounters often can’t.
Value for CIUK members
From stand engagement and busy talks to targeted networking, CIUK’s programme at Surface Design Show 2026 was designed to deliver tangible benefits for members.
By connecting accredited suppliers with designers at the point of inspiration and specification, amplifying member voices within industry discussions, and facilitating high-quality networking opportunities, CIUK reinforced its role as a trusted connector within the commercial interiors sector.
Surface Design Show 2026 demonstrated the power of a focused, well-curated presence and the strength of the CIUK community when it comes together around shared expertise, quality and collaboration.