Exhibition Designer for Sustainable Innovation Exhibition

1. Project Overview

The Mills Fabrica is inviting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from experienced freelance exhibition designers or small studios to lead the design and delivery of a new temporary exhibition, opening in February 2027. The exhibition will be presented at Fabrica X, our innovation gallery and concept space in King’s Cross, London. It will be a cross-sector sustainable innovation exhibition, exploring ideas, materials, businesses and systems that are shaping a more sustainablefuture across industries.

At this stage, we are only requesting EOIs. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full design proposal and will receive the complete project brief and budget guidelines.

Key Details:

· Project Type: Temporary exhibition design

· Exhibition Duration: 1 February – August 2027

· Location: Fabrica X, 36-40 York Way, King’s Cross, N1 9AB

· Opening Date: [TBC] 1 February 2027

Key Dates:

· EOI Deadline: Monday, 31 August 2026 | 23:59 (BST)

· Designers Shortlisted: Wednesday, 2 September 2026

· Full Brief Issued to Shortlisted Designers: Thursday, 3 September 2026

· Final Proposal Submission: Thursday, 24 September 2026

· Designer Appointment: w/c Monday, 28 September 2026

· Design Development and Production: October 2026 – January 2027

· Exhibition Installation: [TBC] 11 – 25 January 2027

· Exhibition Opening: [TBC] Monday, 1 February 2027

2. Scope of Work (Summary)

The appointed designer will be responsible for: conceptual and spatial design development, visual storytelling and layout planning, preparation of technical documentation, liaison with subcontractors and internal teams and oversight of installation on-site. Designers may deliver all components themselves or assemble a team. All collaborators and subcontractors should be disclosed at the next stage (if shortlisted).

3. Budget Guidance

The total available design budget is £20,000 + VAT. This figure is inclusive of design fees, subcontractor costs, production, installation and any other necessary expenses to deliver the project to completion. A detailed breakdown and full brief will be shared with shortlisted candidates.

Please note: This is not a salaried position. A fixed design budget of £20,000 + VAT is available for this project.

4. Who Should Apply
We’re seeking applicants with:

· A strong track record in exhibition or spatial design

· Experience with audience-centred environments and storytelling

· Interest in sustainability, innovation and cross-sector collaboration

· Ability to work independently or lead a small team

· Availability for the design, production, installation and launch period (October 2026 – February 2027).

This is not a salaried position. A fixed design budget of £20,000 + VAT is available for this project.