London’s design scene, Clerkenwell,  is one of  the coolest, hippest and  creative hubs for the international design world. May 22nd, 2012 was the third annual Clerkenwell Design fest where over 24,000 creative types flocked to be dazzled by  the past, present and future in design through exhibitions, events, talks, product launches, workshops and parties. There isn’t another address in the UK that can compete with Clerkenwell’s  unique atmosphere. This design-focused area of London, with Victorian lined streets and rich history, boasts the most architects and designers per square mile than any other location in the world.

Clerkenwell, the answer to Milan’s design expo, has an exceptionally interesting mix of  historical buildings in a dynamic marketplace. For example, The House of Detention, an underground vaulted prison, featured international, cutting edge design as well as  some of the world’s most exciting up and coming talent.  The infamous Farmilou, a former Victorian glass factory used mostly for films such as The Dark Knight and Sherlock Holmes, showcased high end contemporary design.  The newest venue, The Order of St. John, allowed visitors to explore contemporary and limited edition pieces in it’s 12th century crypts. For more information visit Clerkenwell Design Week.

If you didn’t attend, scroll through the pics below for a glimpse inside this decadent show!

(l) Blooming Spark Lamps|Hsiao-Chi Tsai and Kimiya Yoshikawa (m) Tiny Traveling Theatre by Aberrant Architecture|photo: Ashley Bingham (r) Eclipse in the Farmiloe|Eclipse Modular Lighting System by Beau McClellan

*Thanks to Clerkenwell Design Week for sharing their photos!

Lighting the way@CDW 2012

Iron chandelier|Clerkenwell Design Week

Gorgeous Green sofa|Faudet-Harrison’s sprung seat Kenneth Sofa| SCP 2012 Collection premiered at the newly opened 2nd fl. of Farmiloe.  SCP News

Perfect Pillows|Imogen Heath Design on Etsy| photo: Condé Nast Traveler

Fab Shoes!|photo: Splinter Works via Jeffrey Campbell

Love this fabulous & fashionable functional sculpture| The Stiletto Table  by Splinter Works

(l) Witty Chest by Erwan Boulloud|Maison Objet|photo: SplinterWorks (r) The Kirkwood Chair|Upcycled from reclaimed hardwoods & Victorian floorboards|Made in Peckham|photo via Tree Hugger

 Lovely Inverted Table by Jacky Wu Design|photo: Splinter Works

Series Two Side Bench|Use it as a coffee table, for stacking magazines & displaying your ceramic collection,  as hallway seating, or however the whim may take you.| photo: Another Country 

Collective Stool launched CWD 2012|Creature Collective|Supa Frank

Giant Pin Up|Visitor’s got creative with Fashion Designer,Lulu Guinness’s sculptural interpretation of the studding  motif| Lulu Guiness photo: Clerkenwell Design Week

The House of Detention|above photos via Clerkenwell Design Week