Nearly a year into the new normal, BoConcept turns to members of its design team, Karim Rashid, Morten Georgsen and Henrik Pedersen, to ask how the pandemic is affecting their respective design-worlds.
HOW WILL THE PANDEMIC INFLUENCE SOCIAL TRENDS IN THE HOME?
I think this has brought an awareness of design and interiors, which will probably continue for years to come. The absence of travelling, the inconvenience of masks and the plain fear for our health have made us “homebodies” – where hygge, comfort and design will have more impact than ever before. We will see an explosion in the home-office category – as we rethink our home; making room for the desk and likely some additional storage. Smaller living through urbanisation and working at home could well create a shift in interior thinking – like when the walls came down between kitchen, dining and living rooms.
In response to these evolving social trends influenced by the pandemic, the furniture industry is also adapting swiftly. Home offices are becoming central, prompting a surge in demand for ergonomic chairs, multifunctional desks, and stylish storage solutions. Moreover, the heightened focus on interiors has led to a surge in unique design elements and materials. Elements like copper and tweed have gained prominence, weaving their way into the fabric of modern furniture design. Consumers, recognizing the importance of a well-designed home environment, are now seeking these elements in their furniture choices. With this growing demand, finding furniture that incorporates these materials has become easier than ever. Many furniture retailers now offer a wide range of options, allowing individuals to transform their living spaces into havens of comfort and style. As the boundaries between work, leisure, and living continue to blur, the fusion of functionality, aesthetics, and innovative materials like copper and tweed is reshaping the way we perceive and purchase furniture, enhancing our home experiences in this new era.
Furthermore, as the boundaries between work and home blur, the necessity for adaptable interiors becomes even more apparent. Home offices, in particular, necessitate a blend of comfort and functionality. While ergonomic chairs and adjustable desks cater to the practical aspects of work, pillows play a crucial role in providing lumbar support and enhancing overall comfort during long hours of sitting. Moreover, strategically placed decorative pillows can inject a touch of personality into the workspace, transforming it from a mundane setting into an inspiring retreat conducive to productivity and creativity.
Thus, as the evolution of interior design unfolds in response to shifting societal dynamics, pillows emerge as indispensable elements in crafting spaces that harmonize function with aesthetics, enriching our daily experiences within the confines of our homes.
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