An Art Deco-Inspired Journey with a 1930s-Inspired Design
Over 30 designers and studios merged talent to create an exquisite limited-edition collection for Lobby, a new design platform launched by Collate. During the London Design Festival, the collection captivates as a fictional hotel suite, echoing the elegance of the 1930s with a distinct vintage motif.
For more on the intersection of design and architecture, explore global design events this September, including creative showcases that parallel Lobby’s unique blend of style.

Unique Creations by Emerging Designers
The exhibition features exclusive designs crafted for Lobby, such as a polished metal mirror by Jaclyn Pappalardo, a dynamic chainmail partition by Edward John Milton, and a chic lounge chair by Matthew Coules. The collection, rooted in this nostalgic style, includes a Alexander Shayle lacquered resin lamp, a bronze table lighter by Thomas Wheller, silk scarves by Les Keepers, and tailor-made espresso cups from Maison S Sommet.

A Platform for Creativity and Curation
Founder James Garis envisions Lobby as a unique intersection between brand and retailer, allowing both emerging and established designers to experiment under curated guidance. He shares, “I’ve met talented designers, but they lack a platform for well-curated showcasing,” addressing a need in the design market.

The Vision Behind Lobby’s 1930s-Inspired Design
For its debut, Lobby asked designers to create items fit for a Parisian “boudoir-like” hotel. Garis collaborated intimately with participants, fine-tuning each product. Lobby holds exclusive rights for three years, with the most successful pieces becoming part of the core collection, all with a touch of this elegant era.

Innovative Designs and Fair Practices in 1930s-Inspired Design
“The industry can be tough, but we aim for fairness,” states Garis. He offers designers a testing ground for their creations, acknowledging, “I’m not a designer, but I understand what sells. If it doesn’t work here, designers can explore other avenues,” always encouraging this timeless style.

Exhibition Highlights
Presented at Yorkton Workshops, the exhibition unfolds across a reception, lounge, and bedroom space, showcasing more than 40 pieces with art-deco flair and material exploration. Noteworthy items include Josh Page‘s intricately crafted Acid floor lamp and Charlie Humble Thomas‘ Fred lamps with blown-glass shades—a testament to this classic era.
Discover how designers are revamping AI-generated flyers to restore personal touch, a modern twist fitting for Lobby’s curated creativity.

Textile Art and Innovative Lighting
Highlights also feature a textile wall piece by Andrew Pierce Scott, classically styled tassel pendulums by Christopher Kelly, oak stools by Theodóra Alfreðsdóttir, and ceramic sconces by Stine Keinicke.

A Timeless Celebration of Design
Lobby’s immersive presentation is open at Yorkton Workshops in Hackney until September 20, part of the broader London Design Festival. This debut combines nostalgia with modern creativity—a must-see for design enthusiasts, and a celebration of Art Deco-inspired craftsmanship.

Sources & Links
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is Lobby’s design theme for its debut?
Lobby’s design theme for its debut is inspired by the 1930s, echoing the elegance of the era with a distinct vintage motif.
Who launched the new design platform Lobby?
The new design platform Lobby was launched by Collate.
When is Lobby’s presentation open at Yorkton Workshops?
Lobby’s immersive presentation is open at Yorkton Workshops in Hackney until September 20, as part of the broader London Design Festival.
