Design Show Liverpool forced to find larger space

By on May 19, 08 05:28 PM

A DESIGN exhibition showcasing the work of the region's creative community is moving to a new venue and doubling in size after massive demand from exhibitors.

Design Show Liverpool, one of the key events of Capital of Culture year, is moving to the new Novas Contemporary Urban Centre (the CUC) in Greenland Street.

The event, a showcase for creative industries and design talent from Merseyside and the North West, was to have been held in the crypt at the Metropolitan Cathedral, but has been moved to accommodate the expanded show.

Show founder Della Tinsley said: "Design Show Liverpool is now doubling in size due to the phenomenal interest in it.

"We started to have to look at other sites in the city because we were getting lots of requests from exhibitors for much bigger stands than we had originally envisaged.

"We could have added other venues but, when it's your first event, having lots of different venues isn't ideal.

"If we'd seen this venue six months ago, we would have thought it was too big for us.

"But in terms of size, this show is now where we wanted it to be in year two. The take-up has been brilliant.

"By moving to this bigger venue, we are able to make the event as inclusive as possible.

"It will feature plenty of emerging talent - as well as celebrating the icons of the design industry."

The CUC, which opened this year, is housed in a converted and refurbished warehouse.

As well as exhibition and gallery space, it houses theatres, art studios and the new Cafe Arlington.

Ms Tinsley said the CUC also offered enough space for the show to be able to expand in future at the same venue.

Sarah Elderkin, of the Design Show Liverpool organising team, said: "It's a terrific move for the show - sparked by the need to accommodate growing demands for space from exhibitors and the exciting programme of events that are taking place alongside the main exhibition."