The Big Design Market is rolling back into Melbourne this May with Almost Winter, bringing a dreamy botanical wonderland to the Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton.
Promising over 250 independent designers and 70-plus artisanal food brands, the Almost Winter event offers punters an unparalleled opportunity to discover the best in local design while soaking up those cosy winter vibes. The stunning space will be adorned with guest artist Irina Nazarova’s botanical creations, all set under a starry night sky.
Venture through this exquisite space and take a little detour through heaven to discover an incredible array of culinary wizards whipping up the most indulgent dishes and tantalising tipples.
The Big Design Market
• 23-25 May 2025
• Royal Exhibition Building, Carlton
• Adults $6 + booking fee, kids under 12 free
• Friday 11am-8pm, Saturday 10am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
Check out our gig guide, our festival guide, our live music venue guide and our nightclub guide. Follow us on Instagram here.
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Sustainable fashion
This year’s lineup features heaps of exciting newcomers alongside crowd favourites. Sustainable fashion labels making their debut include FiveFoot, Gliese 504, PenelopeRED, Me and Lia, Natalija Rushidi, Brood and Marisol the Label, while accessories brands like Tully Ward, TUUKJET, Wicker Darling and Clingy will also join the fray.
A special addition to the fashion contingent is Charlie Middleton Sydney – an Australian leather goods label crafting exquisitely handcrafted bags and accessories that are as beautiful as they are functional, with a totally timeless aesthetic. Master craftsman Ben Thompson and his team create limited run and bespoke pieces designed to last a lifetime and beyond.
Innovative homewares
The homewares section welcomes innovative labels like Sono Studio, Susie Brooks Ceramics (featured in Paris Design Week 2024), Melbourne Candle Club, and Gibson and Co Makers. Art lovers can check out Good Juju Homewares with their Melbourne-made, Italian-inspired wall art, alongside Emma Winton’s stunning contemporary prints and Em Hatton’s evocative explorations of the human experience.
For little ones, Nourish by Nature brings eco-friendly, 100% natural crayons and creative play items. Lifestyle products include Marketday’s innovative shopping carts, Wild Mingo’s boldly printed eco-friendly yoga mats, and Kinology’s gorgeous aromatherapy products.
Mouthwatering feasts
The food lineup is equally impressive with over 70 brands creating a mouthwatering feast. Savoury options include Banh Mi from Ca Com, burrata from Ugo Burrata Bar, handcrafted pastries from Wonder Pies, and primo pizza from 400 Gradi.
Sweet tooths will be spoiled with Portuguese tarts from Casa Nata, artisanal pastries from Cobb Lane, ice cream from Billy Van Creamy, All Day Donuts, cannoli from Cannoleria and cookies from Mrs Browne Bakes.
Friday night visitors (4pm-6pm) score free Brachetto from Pizzini Wines – a sweet, sparkling drop featuring watermelon and berry notes that starts sweet but finishes dry.
The Almost Winter event will also feature a pop-up fashion runway at midday on Saturday, showcasing exquisite pieces from the event’s designers. Kids get their own dedicated area designed by Irina Nazarova, where they can create flower crowns using templates of native or imaginative flowers.
Tickets available here.
