There were some fabulous collections to explore at London Design Week and, to help us make sense of what we saw, the Design Centre’s creative director Arabella McNie has curated eight design directions that expertly summarise this season’s trends

The Picture Book design direction (above) is a celebration of beautiful illustrations, some from life and others more abstract in nature. Featuring animals and birds in different playful forms, we see a diverse array of palettes and colourful interpretations of animal print patterns. The offering within the Picture Book direction shows standout ways to bring boldness, energy and a wonderful sense of vibrancy to a scheme

The Fruit Salad design direction (above) is a joyful palette of tutti-frutti colours with lemon, lime and cerise. We see a glorious mix of florals in different decorative styles, alongside strong plains and geometrics

The Design Centre’s On Parade design direction marks the fact that the stripe is striding out in a variety of styles across the collections for SS25. We see simple two-tone classics that are nostalgic in nature, but there is also an abundance of more elaborate and complex designs with zig zags, twists and even floral notes hidden in the vertical lines

The Verdure design direction celebrates all shades of green, from pretty and fresh palm house motifs to scenic woodland landscapes. Reminiscent of a dream summerhouse, this design direction is romantic and immersed in nature. Picture curling up by a wood burner with a cup of tea whilst the doors are flung open to the scents and sounds of spring

The Sculpt design direction is a testament to refined craftsmanship, seamlessly blending form and function. A strong take on the most neutral of palettes, many of the fabrics feature 3-dimensional designs contrasting textures in their weaves.  Look for puzzle shapes and softened curves to add an element of surprise

The Archivist design direction marks the fact that when it comes to spring/summer 2025, designers have looked back at their archives for inspiration from the history of the brand itself.  This direction features a rich colour palette of velvets and embroidery in gold, copper and plum.  Think suzani textiles and paisleys alongside worn velvet or silk textures. With an eclectic sensibility, the archivist aesthetic celebrates artisans and artists

The Souvenir design direction conveys treasures from far-flung travels, with textured and beaded weaves in fabrics and wallcoverings that are inspired by global patterns. Every piece has a story to tell and brings so much character to a scheme with a delicious palette of caramel brown, deep reds, rusts and olives

The Jazz Age direction is all about pared back luxe featuring a broad stroke of design influences from fluid curves to neoclassic illustrative murals. Shapes are strong, with a simple palette that sets the tone for the more glamorous stand-out elements

Meet Arabella McNie here