Suffolk Design Festival 2026

A national conversation on future neighbourhoods set within Suffolk. One of the largest public sector design events.
About this Event

REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

The Suffolk Design Festival returns in 2026 for a full day exploring the future of neighbourhoods, places and communities across Suffolk and the wider East of England.

Hosted at The Apex in Bury St Edmunds, the Festival brings together professionals from local authorities, architecture, planning, development, landscape, engineering, heritage and central government for a national conversation grounded in Suffolk.

This year’s programme will focus on the future of neighbourhoods, how we design, deliver and shape better places in response to growth, housing, infrastructure, sustainability and changing communities. The Festival will feature keynote talks, panel discussions, workshops and networking opportunities with voices from across the public and private sectors.

Confirmed Speakers include:

• Wayne Hemingway MBE
• Jonathan Smales, Founder & CEO Human Nature
• Cany Ash, Partner Ash Sakula Architects
• Charlotte Morphett, Senior Lecturer University of the Built Environment
• Marina Milosev, UN Delegate and Urban Planner
• Susan Leadbetter, Associate, Liveable Places, WSP
• Marie Smith, Director of Planning and Growth, West Suffolk Council
• More to be confirmed...

Attendees will hear perspectives from developers, architects, local authorities and central government alongside examples of projects, ideas and approaches shaping the future of place across the UK.

Alongside the main programme, the Festival will include a curated marketplace showcasing organisations, initiatives and projects connected to design and placemaking across the region.

Confirmed Workshops include:

• Dr Bonnie Kwok - Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service - Youth Engagement
• Andy Love - Love Design Studio
• Paulette McAllister - Joseph Hardy Co
• Heritage Tour of Bury St Edmunds
• More to be confirmed...

The Suffolk Design Festival is a free event supported by partners from across the industry and has quickly become one of the largest public sector-led design events outside London.

Please note this event is intended for industry professionals and those working within the built environment sector. It is not recommended for general public attendance.

Further programme announcements, speakers and workshop details will be released over the coming months.

Capacity is limited and advance registration is required.