Last week, renowned British designer Tom Dixon visited Budapest on the occasion of our new Lighting Studio opening, featuring highlights of the SS24 collection as well as iconic signature pieces – both lighting, accessories and furniture. In collaboration with W Budapest, Solinfo organized a series of events, rolling out over 24 hours throughout May 9-10. During his stay, he connected with leading figures in the local creative industry and aspiring designers, while also enjoying some leisure time and sightseeing.

Read our post to discover how Tom spent just over 24 hours in our vibrant city.

May 9

11:05 am – Krisztián, the Owner and Managing Director of Solinfo Group, picked up Tom at the airport, just like he did 10 years ago, but a lot less stressful this time around, yet with the same amount of admiration. A decade ago, Tom Dixon first visited Budapest for the opening of Solinfo Café—a unique showroom and café where visitors could enjoy world-class design over coffee or brunch.

“Our first time in Budapest with Tom was a rush,” Krisztián recalled. “I remember getting my BELL table lamp signed by him at the last minute at the airport in the parking lot. This time, I was much more prepared.” He had two lamps ready for Tom to sign well in advance at the Solinfo Lighting Studio.

After arriving from the airport, Tom toured Solinfo’s head office and showrooms, followed by a hearty meal at Solinfo Café. He sampled Hungarian specialties like goulash soup, ratatouille with smoked sausage, meat-filled Hortobágyi crepes, and lángos, known as ‘Hungarian fried bread.’ He already knew lángos pretty well, as he tasted it back in the days at the Ecseri Flea Market.

Following a delicious coffee, Tom had a series of media interviews where he discussed his past adventures and future plans, AI, design, and sustainability with local editors from Elle Decoration, Octogon and Roadster.

With only 24 hours in Budapest, Tom had a packed schedule. After the interviews, he managed to visit the Opera House and enjoy a short rest in his Opera-facing room at W Budapest.

After a quick outfit change (yes, he wore full Nanushka outfit), he participated in a panel discussion led by Nóra Winkler, featuring Péter Molnár (Design Director at Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design), Szandra Sándor (Founder and Creative Director of Nanushka), Zoltán Tombor (Renowned Photographer), and Krisztián Szetei (Owner and Managing Director of Solinfo Group). Hosted by W Budapest, the panel covered personal stories, the future of art and design, and how to stay motivated and creative in a visually overstimulated world.

After the discussion, Tom, the panelists, and VIP guests walked together from W Budapest to Wesselényi Street to celebrate the opening of Solinfo Lighting Studio. This new 200 sqm multi-brand showroom prominently features Tom Dixon lighting, furniture, and accessories, alongside lighting solutions from 13 other brands. Tom gave a brief opening talk, and the evening continued with a DJ session, aperitivo, and finger food provided by Solinfo Café.

Tom later enjoyed a delightful dinner at W Budapest with the Owners and Brand Manager of Solinfo Group. Their relationship has grown beyond business into a genuine friendship, built on shared backgrounds of humble beginnings, ambitious dreams, and a pioneering, do-it-yourself spirit, which underpins both brands’ success.

Throughout the event, a unique Solinfo Group x Tom Dixon installation by interior designer Fanni Bodrogi was displayed in the Courtyard of W Budapest, open to the public until the end of May.

May 10

After a quick and tasty breakfast at W Budapest, Tom arrived at Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design (MOME) to deliver a presentation titled “Yesterday-Today-Tomorrow” to a hall full of students, featured by Solinfo Academy. Later, he conducted one-on-one portfolio review sessions with five selected MOME graduates.

The morning of professional activities concluded with a delightful lunch at Szép Ilona Restaurant, highlighted by a rhubarb-strawberry pie enjoyed in the cozy garden.

After a nourishing lunch, Tom headed to the airport to return to London.

Solinfo is honored to have hosted such a prominent figure and great personality. Luckily the team only has to wait about 3 weeks to next see Tom, this time in their iconic Coal Office at King’s Cross in London.

Photos by Dániel Gaál