The Surface Design Show (SDS) is thrilled to announce a new and strategic move to the 2026 edition of the show, partnering with the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). This bold collaboration further cements SDS’s position as an unmissable event for those in the architecture and design industry.

Opening the doors from the 3 – 5 February 2026 at the Business Design Centre in Islington, London, Surface Design Show 2026 promises to be the leading event of the year that architects, interior designers and visitors within the design community will not want to miss.

As part of the exciting collaboration with RIBA, the Surface Design Show will serve as host partner for two of RIBA’s most significant annual events.

  • RIBA Future Leaders – Tuesday 3rd February 2026

A program designed to support the professional development of emerging architects. The event will equip the next generation of leaders with the crucial skills and insights needed to thrive in practice and shape the built environment of tomorrow.

  • RIBA AI in Practice Summit – Second Edition – Wednesday 4th February 2026

Following the resounding success of last year’s inaugural event, the 2026 summit is set to return with an even greater impact. This high-profile gathering will welcome over 500 architects and delve into the cutting edge of AI in architecture. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from world-renowned speakers and leading industry experts on the latest technological advancements, applications and trends in the field.

The events, hosted in partnership with this year’s Surface Design Show, are set to create a dynamic flow of activity throughout the exhibition. By welcoming large groups of RIBA delegates before and after sessions, the programme will ensure a steady influx of industry leaders, architects and designers into the show. This will not only drive networking opportunities but also expose participants to a curated showcase of best-in-class innovations in surfaces, finishes and materials, highlighting cutting-edge design thinking and craftsmanship.

“quote” – RIBA representee.

This partnership echos SDS’s dedication to providing a platform where the entire design community can immerse themselves in the latest and most inspiring materials for the built environment. With the 2026 theme of ‘Material Evolution’ demanding a reassessment of newness and a shift from waste to worth, the partnership with RIBA aligns with SDS’s vision of championing circular systems, material transparency and inventive reuse.

“We are thrilled to partner with RIBA for this year’s edition of the Surface Design Show. This collaboration gives us a chance to connect with new audiences and explore ideas that matter in architecture and design. I’m looking forward to the conversations and perspectives this partnership will bring” – David Todd, Event Director at Surface Design Show.