Textile Design

Textile Design encompasses the creation and development of fabrics and materials through various techniques such as weaving, knitting, printing, and embroidery. This discipline blends artistic creativity with technical expertise to produce textiles for fashion, interior design, and industrial applications. Historically, textile design has evolved from traditional handcrafting methods to incorporate modern technologies, reflecting cultural narratives and technological advancements. Contemporary textile designers often explore sustainable practices and innovative materials, pushing the boundaries of aesthetics and functionality. The field remains a dynamic intersection of art, craft, and industry, continually influencing and being influenced by global design trends.

designer

Designers by Discipline: Eight Fields of Design

Explore eight major design disciplines—from architecture and ceramics to industrial, interior and textile design—with representative designers and archive links.Read More →

Bayeux Tapestry scene showing the coronation and enthronement of King Harold II in 1066

Bayeux Tapestry: Medieval Embroidery and the Norman Conquest

The Bayeux Tapestry is a monumental medieval embroidery recounting the Norman Conquest through vivid stitched scenes, Latin inscriptions, symbolism, craftsmanship, and narrative design in wool.Read More →

Colefax and Fowler Olander Collection interior with rose curtains, striped sofa, floral cushions and patterned ottoman

Colefax and Fowler Olander Collection: Pattern, Texture and English Interior Elegance

The Colefax and Fowler Olander Collection blends contemporary decor with traditional English style, showcasing textiles that harmoniously combine comfort, pattern, and historical significance.Read More →

American Colonial architecture illustration of Hutchinson House in Boston with symmetrical facade and classical detailing

American Colonial Design: Architecture, Furniture and Decorative Arts

American Colonial design reflects a unique blend of British influence and local adaptation, shaping furniture, architecture, and decorative arts before the Federal period, emphasising practicality and regional character.Read More →

Modernist Textiles and Carpets: Pattern, Abstraction and Women Designers

Explore modernist textiles and carpets, from Omega Workshops and Bauhaus weaving to Eileen Gray, Marion Dorn and abstract rug design.Read More →

Japanese tabako-ire leather tobacco pouch with carved kiseru-zutsu pipe case and ojime, Edo period

Kazari: Japanese Ornament and Spiritual Design

Explore kazari, the Japanese art of ornament, display and symbolic decoration across lacquer, textiles, ceramics, festivals and interiors.Read More →

Timeline exhibit displaying various chair designs from Ancient Egypt to 21st century innovation

Sustainable Furniture Design: Biomaterials, Circularity, and Product Lifecycles

Sustainable furniture design uses biomaterials, recycled materials, repairability, and lifecycle thinking to reduce waste and support circular design.Read More →

Traditional Asian artifacts including a blue and white vase, wooden statue, embroidered pouch, and other decorative items on a wooden table.

Decorative Arts in Hong Kong: Craft, Trade and Modern Design

Explore decorative arts in Hong Kong through Chinese export art, jade jewellery, carved furniture, neon signs, textiles, ceramics and contemporary design culture.Read More →

Still life with Art Deco books, blue and white teapot, yellow rose in vase, geometric sculpture, glass of water, and decorative box on marble table

Ornament After the Avant-Garde: Pattern, Surface and Modern Design

The evolution of ornament in modern design illustrates a transition from applied decoration to structural elements, reshaping the narrative around aesthetics and functionality.Read More →

Red House designed by Philip Webb for William Morris, illustrating Arts and Crafts architecture

Arts and Crafts Movement: Design Reform, Craft Ideals, and the Origins of Modern Design

The Arts and Crafts Movement, led by William Morris, sought to restore craftsmanship and aesthetics amidst industrialisation, influencing modern design through principles of social responsibility and unity of art.Read More →