This Summer at Smile
- Written by: Angie Turner
Circularity in Action
We’re halfway through 2025 and Summer has just begun, and it’s been a busy season at Smile. Our materials have been sparking conversations, shaping spaces, and showing what 100% recycled and 100% recyclable plastics can really do – from landmark exhibitions to industry talks, design showcases and standout interiors. Here’s a look at what’s been happening, and what’s coming up.
London Design Biennale
You’ll find Smile Plastics across Somerset House throughout the London Design Biennale (5–29 June). Look out for the ACAD chairs, Make Relief’s plinths, and Good Sheet furniture in ORCA and CHARCOAL – all made from our reimagined materials and proudly on show as part of the Biennale’s immersive experience. The Biennale brings together designers and ideas from around the world, with installations, talks, and performances that explore how design can shape our future. It’s a great way to discover new perspectives. As a Smile subscriber, you can enjoy 25% off general admission and concession tickets with code PARTNER525. Valid until 29 June – book now.
“Sustainability – What Does It Really Mean?”
Smile Plastics’ Co-Founder and Technical Director, Adam Fairweather, will speak at New Designers on Friday 11 July (11:00–13:15) at the Business Design Centre, London. Hosted by Dezeen’s Editorial Director Max Fraser, the panel – “Sustainability: What Does It Really Mean, and How Do We Ensure Its Integrity?” brings together leading voices from across the design spectrum, including Jo Barnard (Morrama) and Kirsty Dias (PriestmanGoode). The session also includes a guided “Spotlight on Sustainability” tour led by Creative Conscience, showcasing impact-led graduate work; this is one not to miss. Smile Plastics is also proud to be producing the Design for Planet Prize trophies for the second year running. Awarded by the Design Council at New Designers, the prize recognises a graduate designer whose work demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental and social responsibility, with a focus on ecosystem restoration, biodiversity, and the well-being of diverse communities.
Archisource x Smile Plastics
We’re pleased to be on board as a material partner for the 2025 Drawing of the Year Awards, producing bespoke trophies using Smile Plastics materials. The Drawing of the Year awards will be hosted as part of London Creates (11–19 July at the Truman Brewery), a major celebration of creativity and innovation. Our materials will be on show alongside work from leading names including Foster + Partners and RSHP, as part of a free-to-enter exhibition celebrating ideas and inspiration across disciplines.
World Design Congress, 9–10 September
At this international summit of design-led change, this year held in London, Smile Plastics joins the panel “Waste Not, Want Not” — speaking alongside voices from WWF, B Corp design studio Morrama, and Simba Sleep, and Sophie Thomas. We’re creating a special installation at the Barbican — a series of spaces designed to offer calm, connection, and neuro-inclusive experiences through both form and material. Keep your eyes peeled — we’ll be revealing more about this exciting collaboration over the coming weeks. Make sure to book your tickets to WDC now – you won’t want to miss it.
Project focus: KARL LAGERFELD, Regent Street
Charcoal and Grey Mist take centre stage in KARL LAGERFELD’s futuristic new flagship, offering a sleek, monochrome material palette that’s 100% recycled and 100% recyclable. From sculptural footboards to bold display tables, we’re proud to see our panels contributing to a store that’s just achieved LEED Gold certification. Find out how you can specify sustainably with Smile.
We hope you have a wonderful Summer! Team Smile