About Us - Design-Nation

Design-Nation is a leading portfolio for designer-makers based in the UK who create craft, design and product.

OUR MISSION:

Design-Nation creates innovative and inclusive opportunities for the contemporary design and craft sector through future thinking.

OUR VISION:

The dynamic programmes that we produce transform the lives of UK design and craft professionals in our network.

OUR VALUES:

We value excellence & innovation, diversity & inclusion, and sustainability & ethical practice in design and craft

We listen to our members to guide our future thinking, as we better understand sector need and ambition

We value the knowledge, passion and leadership of our workforce and governance and the contribution each individual makes

We value collaborative long-term relationships with partners, in order to grow creative opportunities and build sector capacity

We nurture inclusive environments and cultures, to foster a sense of belonging where everyone is empowered to achieve their full potential

We strive to create programmes that are accessible for everyone to participate in

We value ongoing learning for our team, members and partners.

Our portfolio comprises a rich and diverse pool of highly skilled designer-makers whose collective works demonstrate authentic, exceptional craftsmanship and design ability. Our success is evidenced through a groundbreaking programme, more than 20 years of bespoke projects and opportunities that have transformed the creative and business practice of our members.

We work in collaboration with UK-wide partners, champions and funders, to strengthen business and creative development opportunities for the contemporary design and craft sector.

A brief history:
Design-Nation was founded in 1999 by the late Peta Levi MBE, a stalwart supporter of British design and an innovator in her time. In 2017, Design-Nation merged with Design Factory, another respected membership organisation, creating a single leading UK-based design and craft portfolio and network.

In 2023 the organisation moved to a new operating model, in partnership with University of Lincoln, after almost a decade at The Hub – National Centre for Craft & Design in Sleaford, Lincolnshire. Design-Nation has received support from Arts Council England and the Radcliffe Trust as well as many donors.