When the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) releases a trends outlook, it's a must-read for designers. The 2024 edition covers a wide range of topics, exploring how design intersects with various aspects of life. From culture and society to residences, the workplace, education, health, travel, and entertainment, ASID's report offers valuable insights into the future of design. Let's take a closer look at some of the top design trends highlighted in ASID's 2024 outlook.
ASID's 2024 Design Trends Highlight the Importance of Human Connection
Understanding Gen Z Values
Connection, authenticity, and health and wellness are top priorities for Gen Z, the most diverse generation yet. With an emphasis on work-life balance and a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion, Gen Z expects to see themselves represented in design choices. As single occupancy households increase, designers need to find cost-effective solutions that foster connectivity.
Elevating the Hybrid Workplace
Hybrid work is here to stay, and companies are adapting by rethinking their office spaces. Instead of relocating, companies are renovating their existing spaces to create flexible options for collaboration and focused work. The workplace must also cater to the preferences of different generations, offering amenities like full-scale gyms and climbing walls to entice employees back to the office.
How Sectors Blur in Residential Design
Residential design is extending beyond interior walls, embracing outdoor spaces and community engagement. The trend of "eatertainment" is gaining momentum, with kitchen islands becoming gathering spots for meal preparation and socializing. The line between indoor and outdoor furnishings is also blurring, and residential spaces now include hotel-like elements and health and wellness features such as bedroom hydration stations and seagrass wallcoverings. Look out for futuristic features like floor tiles that can measure body temperature or mirrors that can assess sleep quality and nutritional deficiencies.
Transparency Reigns Supreme for Sustainability
In the realm of sustainability, small steps and relevant daily life choices are critical. Designers and industry professionals must simplify their messaging to ensure that clients have the correct information to make informed decisions. Transparency is key when it comes to sustainable design.
The Rise of Preventative Care Facilities
As the focus on preventative care increases, design plays a crucial role in creating comfortable and stress-free experiences for patients. Beauty, comfort, and acoustic privacy are fundamental elements that reduce anxiety. Designers can also find ways to create efficiencies and reduce costs as budgets tighten in the healthcare industry.
The Future of Educational Spaces
From K-12 schools to higher education, design must cater to the needs of both students and faculty. Hybrid classrooms and dynamic physical spaces are essential to providing engaging and effective learning environments. As universities and colleges attract domestic and international students, the design of educational spaces becomes increasingly important.
Design Destinations That Create Community
Design should foster a sense of connection and place. Beyond beautiful rooms, design must consider the overall experience, including food, heritage, and entertainment. Sports stadiums are now seen as entertainment venues, and arenas are being designed to accommodate various programs while offering premium VIP options.
Exploring the Limits of AI
While artificial intelligence (AI) is gaining prominence in the design industry, the human touch remains essential. Designers must embrace AI as a tool rather than relying solely on its "perfection." The designer's hand and creativity add a unique and irreplaceable element to projects.
ASID's 2024 outlook provides valuable insights into the future of design. From prioritizing human connection to incorporating sustainability and the rise of hybrid work, these trends will shape the world of design in the coming years. Designers and industry professionals should stay informed and embrace these shifts to create innovative and meaningful spaces for all.