What If? London Design Festival in Kingston 13-20 September 2025

Coming to central Kingston next month, and helping bring the London Design Festival to the borough for the first time.

At a time of great change across Kingston, What If? (kingstonurbanroom.org.uk) seeks to highlight the importance of putting people and local knowledge at the heart of planning decisions. Through its thought-provoking programme, we hope What If? will encourage people to join the creative conversation and inspire residents to feel empowered to shape where they live and work.

What If? event summary:

• Inspired by the concept of an Urban Room, the week-long installation (13-20 September) will be organised into five creative zones that explore place and possibilities – all in collaboration with local designers, artists, architects, students and innovators.
• The programme also includes a series of free walks and talks that explore the link between good design and local pride. From the role of public art to royals and rogues in Kingston’s colourful past, these themed events encourage people to connect with their surroundings whilst reflecting on Kingston’s past, present challenges and residents’ potential to influence the borough’s future.
• What If? is being organised by the volunteer-run charity Kingston Society as part of the London Design Festival’s annual series of city-wide events plus Kingston 2025 celebrations, the event will take place at Penny School Gallery (Kingston College Creative Industries Centre).
• Full What If? programme details on kingstonurbanroom.org.uk

With the Urban Room concept already helping bridge the gap between citizens and town decision-makers across the UK, the idea of an inclusive space in Kingston town centre remains an opportunity Kingston Society continues to campaign for – and a concept we hope What If? will spark wider local interest in.