Returning to HRC, part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week, for the third year in a row, Harp Design is once again behind the stunning aesthetic of the Vision Stage, in partnership with Future Menus by Unilever Food Solutions, the show’s hub for expert hospitality discussions.
This year, the team has drawn inspiration from the growing conversation around neurodiversity, creating a space that’s not only visually striking but also designed to be welcoming and accessible to all.
In this exclusive sneak peek, Harp Design Founder Hayley Roy shares the story behind this year’s concept, how they’ve woven sustainability into their approach, and what they predict for the future of hospitality design in 2025.
Harp Design are back for a third year designing the Vision Stage at HRC! What do you enjoy about this project?
At Harp Design, we look forward to the HRC event all year long! It’s always a pleasure to collaborate with such an incredible team, and we’re so grateful that they continue to ask us to contribute. Designing the Vision Stage is a highlight for us each year, especially because we love incorporating the latest trends into our designs. This year, we’re particularly excited about the theme we’ve chosen—it’s something that truly resonates with everyone. Bringing our vision to life with the help of our favourite suppliers is always such a rewarding experience, and it’s amazing to see it all come together for everyone to enjoy.
Tell us about this year’s design and where the theme came from
This year’s design for HRC is deeply inspired by a topic that is important not only to us but to everyone: Neurodiversity. As awareness around neurodiversity grows, we couldn’t be happier to see more people learning about it. It’s a subject that’s close to our hearts, and we understand firsthand the challenges many people face, especially in public spaces. For this design, we set out to create an all-inclusive and neurodiverse-friendly environment. From considering those sensitive to textures and bright colours, to providing soft lighting for those with anxiety, we’ve really thought about every detail.
Our goal is to show that it’s possible to design a beautiful space that’s welcoming and accessible to everyone, no matter their needs.
Why is it important to keep topics like neurodiversity in mind when designing hospitality spaces?
It’s crucial to keep neurodiversity in mind when designing hospitality spaces because we want everyone to feel included and welcomed. No one should have to worry about whether they’ll be comfortable or able to enjoy their experience at a restaurant or other hospitality venues. By creating spaces that are thoughtful and accessible, we’re helping ensure that everyone feels safe and at ease. Ultimately, we believe this approach not only fosters inclusivity but also enhances the appeal of these spaces, attracting a wider range of people who can enjoy the environment without concern.
How is sustainability incorporated into this year’s design?
Sustainability is always a key focus in our designs, and this year is no exception. We believe it’s essential to consider the environment in every aspect of our work. For this design, we’ve incorporated eco-friendly fabrics and recycled materials to demonstrate that it’s possible to create a beautiful, functional space while also being mindful of our planet. By prioritising sustainability, we hope to inspire others to think about the impact of their choices as well.
Who are some of the key suppliers supporting the design for the stage this year?
All of our suppliers play a crucial role in bringing this design to life, and we couldn’t have created such a beautiful space without each and every one of them. A special thank you goes out to two suppliers who have been particularly instrumental in supporting us this year: Carter Newlove Interiors and Carlick Furniture. Carter Newlove has been essential in building and placing the features of the design on the stage – we truly couldn’t have done it without them. Meanwhile, Carlick has supplied much of the furniture, and as we all know, no design is complete without the right furnishings to tie everything together.
What developments do you think we’ll see in hospitality design in 2025?
In 2025, I believe we’ll see a continued emphasis on creating more inclusive, sustainable, and tech-driven experiences in hospitality design. With a growing focus on neurodiversity and accessibility, we can expect spaces to become even more thoughtful and adaptable, offering environments that cater to diverse needs.
Sustainability will remain a key factor, with more use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and a stronger push for water efficiency. We’ll likely see innovative water-saving solutions integrated into spaces, such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems. Additionally, technology will play a bigger role, with smart features that enhance the guest experience, like personalised lighting or climate control. It’s all about designing spaces that are not only beautiful but also functional, adaptable, and mindful of the world we live in.
Do Harp Design have any exciting current or upcoming projects you’d like to shout about?
We have so many exciting projects in the pipeline right now, but one that we’re particularly proud of is the refurbishment of the Fusiliers Bar at the Tower of London. Being able to contribute to such an iconic building and venue, which holds so much historical significance, has been an incredible experience. We’re so grateful to be working with such a fantastic team and amazing clients on this project.
Another exciting project, though still under wraps for privacy reasons, is a restaurant collaboration with a celebrity chef. She has a clear vision for the space, and we’re thrilled to be part of the process in bringing it to life. We can’t wait to see what this year holds for Harp Design, and we hope you’ll join us on the journey!
HRC takes place alongside IFE Manufacturing, IFE, The Pub Show, and International Salon Culinaire as part of Food, Drink & Hospitality Week on 17-19 March 2025 at Excel London. Find out more, and register for your complimentary trade ticket, at hrc.co.uk.
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