The Stone & Surfaces Show is adding a new feature for its 2026 edition with the launch of the Surfaces Cinema, a dedicated space for film, photography and live presentations aimed at inspiring architects and designers.

The show takes place from 12–14 May 2026 at ExCeL London and is set to be “festivalised,” with the cinema forming a big part of that shift. Alongside screenings, the Surfaces Cinema will act as a hub for talks by architects presenting projects that explore innovative uses of stone and surface materials. Visitors will also be able to take a break from the Main Stage debates, Architects Theatre sessions and exhibitor stands – with free popcorn promised.

Tiny Temple

One strand of the programme will focus on how materials are made. Three short films from Architextures’ Materials in Motion series will be shown, giving behind-the-scenes access to manufacturers including Mirrl, which produces bespoke resin finishes, Tiny Temple, known for its charred timber, and No Rules Wallpaper, which designs sustainable “no match” wallcoverings. Architextures founder Ryan Canning will also speak in the Architects Theatre about how the digital material library, launched in 2020 and now used by more than half a million designers a month, supports specification and drawing production.

No Rules Wallpaper

The cinema will also screen a film about ANTI-RUIN, an experimental project by OZRUH that turns stone dust and demolition waste into new spatial structures using large-scale 3D printing. The project explores architecture as something that grows and recombines rather than simply decays. OZRUH founder Levent Ozruh is due to join a Main Stage panel to discuss how ANTI-RUIN points toward a regenerative material economy and a different way of thinking about longevity in buildings.

OZRUH

A selection of work by award-winning photographer and filmmaker Edward Bishop will be screened, including films about a sustainability-led primary school, the construction of a pavilion from marine ply and aluminium, and the craft of architectural model making. Bishop’s work is known for focusing on the human presence within buildings and how spaces are used and understood.

Edward Bishop

Professional photography will also have a strong presence. Slideshows will feature portfolio highlights from Chris Hopkinson, Ivan Jones and Andy Stagg. Hopkinson, who runs Chromaphotography, will accompany his architectural images with a film documenting the mining of Portland stone. Brighton-based Ivan Jones is developing his first solo publication on natural materiality and sustainable design, while Andy Stagg’s fine art background informs a body of work that looks closely at overlooked details and atmosphere in architecture.

Chris Hopkinson

Sam Patel, Divisional Director of the ‘Super Event’ that brings together Stone & Surfaces, UK Construction Week and FutureBuild, says the Surfaces Cinema is intended to add a lighter, more inspirational dimension to the show. “Think red carpet, a classic cinema usher in hat and gloves, matinee screenings – and yes, popcorn,” he says. “It’s a space where film, photography and live presentations come together to show how stone and surfaces can spark creativity and push the boundaries of design.”

Ivan Jones

The Stone & Surfaces Show is co-located with UK Construction Week London and FutureBuild, giving visitors access to all three events in one venue. It is organised by Media 10 and is positioned as the UK’s main trade event for the natural stone and surfaces sectors, with exhibitors, live demonstrations and an extensive seminar programme.

Registration for the 2026 show is now open.