UK city crowned world capital of design — do you agree?

London Named Unofficial Interior Design Capital

A UK city has been recognized as the world's unofficial interior design capital, surpassing major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong. This title was given in a feature that highlighted various fields, including architecture, design, art, music, and food.

In the music category, radio and television presenter Zan Rowe chose Austin, Texas, as the top spot. She described the small southern city as "charming" and praised its vibrant mix of venues, from the large Stubb's amphitheatre to the punk spot Emo's.

Food writer Jill Dupleix selected Tokyo as the best food destination, commending the Japanese capital for its diverse and exhilarating culinary experiences. According to her, Tokyo outshines cities like Barcelona and Bangkok.

However, the most surprising choice came in the realm of interior design, where London was named the unofficial capital. Adelaide Bragg, an interior designer, picked London over other contenders such as New York, Paris, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong.

While Paris is known for modern furniture and artisanal wallpaper, New York boasts major design centers like the D&D Building and Restoration Hardware, which is described as a "cathedral of proportion and light with a wonderful rooftop restaurant." But Bragg argued that London offers an unmatched selection of craftsmanship and design resources.

She pointed out the Design Centre in Chelsea Harbour as a must-visit for fabric, furniture, and lighting. Additionally, she noted the beautiful walk between Kings Road and Pimlico Road, where Sybil Colefax & John Fowler showcases "the most extraordinary" windows.

Bragg added: "Cox does exquisite furniture and lighting that’s contemporary with a traditional base, and Soane is quite over-the-top but full of handmade cane, and they're championing all the old crafts."

The feature also named Venice as the world's unofficial art capital, surpassing cities like Paris and Hong Kong. Gallery director Maud Page selected Venice over New Delhi, Paris, Los Angeles, and Hong Kong, noting that it's an "amazing" destination to visit "to look at art."

She added: "You can’t go past the Peggy Guggenheim Collection – it’s right on the water and has all the modernist masters from the 1930s to the ’50s. The setting is divine, and knowing that it’s one woman’s dream is also beautiful."

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026

Lonely Planet has released its top destinations and experiences for the coming year with the release of Best in Travel 2026. This guide features 25 must-visit destinations and 25 essential experiences from around the globe, illustrated with colorful photography, essays, and local advice for exploring each place.

One of the highlights includes the thriving street-art scene in Bristol, known as the birthplace of iconic street artist Banksy. The city has become a colorful hotbed of creativity for a wide range of artists, with specialist walking tours providing insight into the inspiration behind the works of local artists that blend beautifully into the cityscape.

This guide encourages travelers to venture beyond the tourist trail and discover hidden gems. It explores the must-visit destinations for 2026's booming 'slow travel' trend, offering starlit escapes over bustling cityscapes.

Additionally, it addresses why London was hailed as the world's "top destination" by Tripadvisor for 2025, dethroning Dubai after a long reign. The guide also highlights which UK city is celebrated as the epitome of a cultural capital and what it offers its residents.

Finally, it reveals which breathtaking travel hotspots Brits will be flocking to for globe-trotting adventures in 2026.