There aren’t many design exhibitions, furniture shows or collection launches that we don’t manage to wangle a ticket to – honestly, the things we do in the name of trend spotting and sneak peek sharing.

But what you might not know is that we also spend most of our free time checking out all things design. That’s right, even off the clock we eat, sleep and dream interiors.

Image credit: Origin: The London Craft Fair

As part of this borderline unhealthy obsession, I’ve been donning my design detective cap to find the hottest events of the coming months. Just call me Style-Sherlock.

You can check out the full must-see list in our Design Diary, but here are the three queues I’d be happy to fight my way to the front of (I’ve spent the Summer perfecting my barging).

First up is London Design Festival, an action–packed week of over 200 exhibitions, trade shows, installations, talks, seminars, private views and parties. The festival runs from 19-27 September and has so much to offer that I couldn’t possibly pick a favourite. But I will say that my barging expertise will most definitely come in handy when I head down to The Tournament – a giant interactive chess set inspired by iconic London buildings.

Based in Trafalgar square, The Tournament is the centre piece of this year’s London Design Festival.  The ceramic pieces have been handcrafted by Spanish designer, Jaime Hayón, and are moved across the glass mosaic chess board by The Tournament Team. I’ll be watching with bated breath as contestants from the British Chess Federation and members of the public battle it out to become The Tournament champion.

My number two spot is held by Open House London – the snooping Londoner’s choice.

On the 19th and 20th of September 700 buildings of every conceivable type, shape and size will open their doors to the curious public, totally free of charge.

With so much to see, I’ve got a tight schedule planned and have had my trusty Converse high tops newly re-soled for some serious pavement pounding. I’m most excited about exploring Trellick Tower, Tennis Court Lane and Hampstead Garden Suburb’s artisan quarter. Nosey parkers unite!

My third place rosette goes to Origin: The London Craft Fair, which kicks off on the 6th October at London’s Somerset House.

Set in the gorgeous Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court in a specially designed pavilion, Origin showcases contemporary craft from 300 established and emerging makers. Glass, ceramics (above), jewellery, furniture, basketry and textiles. You name it, it will all be nestled under that pavillion roof.

You could buy or commission a one-off piece, chat with the designers or learn about contemporary basketry in Crafting Space, an interactive area in the heart of the fair. For anybody with a love of crafts (I’m a dab hand with a glue gun, you know) this is sure to beat off the Autumn gloom.

Right, I’m off to the launch party of Ben de Lisi’s new range of furnished apartments. I know, I know – it’s a tough life. But I’ll be sure to report back!