The Big Design Market at the Royal Exhibition Building

Every year, The Big Design Market takes over the iconic Royal Exhibition Building in Carlton Gardens for three days of independent design and shopping – just in time for gifting season.

Kicking off on Friday December 1 and running until Sunday December 3, 2023, this year’s Market features over 250 independent Australian exhibitors selling everything from homewares and ceramics to fashion, jewellery, kids’ toys, tech accessories, books, stationery and art prints.

There’s always plenty of fashion to choose from at The Big Design Market, with this year no exception. Explore bold prints from Vow Studio, sustainable fashion from Dorte; chic minimalist essentials from And Bear; statement pieces from The Only Label or Made for a Goddess; relaxed natural-fibre pieces from Frske; or sustainable adventure clothing from Amble.

Pick-up handmade ceramics from Ochre, Adele Macer or Arcadia Scott; architectural stainless steel jewellery from Days of August; all-natural leather bags and accessories from Simetrie; or even a new kitchen heirloom, lovingly crafted by knife specialists Cut Throat Knives.

In the realm of self-care, discover organic skincare and haircare from 100 per cent Indigenous-owned and operated Bush Medijina; ethically made nail polish from Kester Black; multifunctional skin products from Ray Skincare; natural haircare from Wuli Grooming; or refillable sunscreen applicators from Solmate.

And you won’t go hungry. There will be artisanal delights from Long Paddock cheese, sweet treats from All Day Donuts, flavour-packed baos from Wonderbao, yum cha from Oriental Teahouse, seafood on-the-go from Claw & Tail, and botanically infused non-alcoholic wine from Altina.

Melbourne-based artist Georgia Perry has created a large-scale inflatable eye installation that’ll be on display below the ornate dome of the Royal Exhibition Building, bringing a whimsical, colourful aesthetic to the market.

The limited-edition designer showbags are always a favourite of the market, this year selling for $35 with a value of over $200. But be sure to get in quick, because they generally sell out in the first hour of the day.

Entry is $6 for adults, and free for kids under 12.

This article is produced by Broadsheet in partnership with The Big Design Market.