Play, process and partnership: BDF Founders Luke Tonge and Daniel Alcorn on their vision for 2025

Birmingham Design Festival (BDF) is one of the UK’s leading creative events that celebrates design in its many forms within England’s second-largest city. Founded by creative polymaths Luke Tonge and Daniel Alcorn, the annual festival has grown from grassroots beginnings to an internationally recognised event hosting world-class speakers. And more than a festival alone, BDF holds significant importance as it helps decentralise the UK’s creative industry from London, builds community among designers, and showcases Birmingham’s creative culture. We caught up with Luke and Daniel to understand their journey in establishing this cultural touchstone, their philosophy on community-building, and their vision for the 2025 festival centred around the theme of ‘Play.’ PT: Hi Luke and Daniel! It’s a pleasure to reconnect! How are you?