Anniversary Celebration: The Decorative Fair marks four decades
In the world of antiques, design, and art, the Decorative Fair is a highly anticipated event that has been shining brightly for four decades. This autumn, the Fair is set to mark its 40th anniversary, promising another spectacular showcase of treasures from across the UK and Europe.
The Decorative Fair's inception in 1985 was a response to the growing interest in decorative antiques and objects, particularly the 'full' country house look, which featured embellished window treatments, chintz-covered sofas, art of all periods, and interesting collections of objects. This style, reminiscent of a bygone era, has once again found favour among enthusiasts.
The Fair's growth can be traced back to the 1980s, as the number of dealers specialising in decorative antiques and objects increased. Recognising the need for a dedicated platform for interior designers to meet dealers, the organisers of the Decorative Fair filled this gap, launching the event as a welcome initiative.
From September 30 to October 5, Battersea Park in London will play host to 130 exhibitors, showcasing a diverse range of quality items for sale. The offering at the Decorative Fair is more diverse than ever, reflecting the evolving tastes and preferences of its discerning buyers.
The Decorative Fair prides itself on providing an individual look, long-lasting craftsmanship, and pieces with a story to tell. Over the years, it has become a must-visit for the interiors world, with designers, decorators, and their clients embracing the Fair as one of the most popular sourcing occasions for the interior design trade and discerning buyers.
The Fair's history is intertwined with key milestones in the evolution of decorative arts and antiques events in the UK. Influenced by international exhibitions such as the 1925 International Exhibition of Decorative Arts and Modern Industries in Paris, the British Antique Dealer’s Association (BADA) organised influential exhibitions in the late 1920s and 1930s. The 1951 Festival of Britain, though not solely focused on antiques, played a significant role in promoting British arts, crafts, design, and architecture, influencing public taste and the appreciation of British design heritage.
Today, the Decorative Fair stands as the longest running and largest antiques, design, and art event in the UK, continuing to be at the forefront of the industry. Exhibitors are encouraged to be creative with their stand displays, inspiring buyers with unique and captivating presentations of their wares.
As the Decorative Fair celebrates its 40th anniversary, it continues to honour its roots while embracing the future, offering a platform where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly, just as they have done throughout the Fair's rich history. For those with a passion for antiques, design, and art, the Decorative Fair remains an unmissable event on the calendar.
At the Decorative Fair, one can find a dazzling array of textiles and interior-design elements, reminiscent of the full country house look from the 1980s, including embellished window treatments and chintz-covered sofas. This anniversary event in Battersea Park, London, is more than just an antiques fair; it's a lifestyle and home-and-garden extravaganza for the interiors world, showcasing a diverse range of quality art objects for discerning buyers.
