Embracing Sustainability and Inclusivity in Commercial Design
For our design team, staying informed about the latest trends and innovations in our industry is crucial. We do this through continuous education, relationships with our product representatives, and by keeping an eye on emerging trends. This year, we’ve seen continuted trends and trade shows have highlighted significant movements in sustainability and inclusivity, aligning with our values of enhancing lives through thoughtful design.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
Sustainability was at the forefront of NeoCon 2024, where the industry’s commitment to eco-friendly practices was on full display. Brands like Kvadrat introduced textiles made from 100% ocean-bound plastics, demonstrating a shift towards using recycled and upcycled materials. This trend reflects the industry’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility, a key consideration as we approach each of our projects.
Pods and Privacy Solutions
In response to the need for privacy in open office environments, pod-like workspaces have become increasingly popular. These semi-private spaces offer a balance between collaboration and solitude, a concept that resonates with our approach to flexible, adaptable design. Products like OFS’s ROOM exemplify this trend, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. ROOM is created using recycled materials, reducing environmental impact both in the raw materials and by replacing construction cycles with flexible solutions.
Neurodiversity and Inclusive Design
The importance of designing spaces that cater to neurodiverse individuals is another emerging trend. Sensory-friendly materials, such as soft-touch fabrics and non-glare surfaces, were highlighted for their role in creating inclusive environments. We work to design spaces that are accessible and comfortable for everyone, ensuring that our projects enhance the well-being of all users .
As with residential trends, we’ve observed that the industry’s move towards bold textures and warm neutrals—like those seen in Brentano’s Aura textiles and Siena’s Sergenti cork collection—continues to gain traction. These materials not only add depth and richness to a space but also support calming, inclusive environments.
Health and wellness continues to influence our industry and it’s deeper than just the products themselves. For instance, Mohawk’s collaboration with ArtLifting supports artists facing housing insecurity or mental health challenges. This approach to design not only prioritizes environmental sustainability but also social inclusivity—values that resonate deeply with our team and our processes. We love being able to offer our clients products that have deeper value and meaning.
Sustainability and inclusivity remain clear priorities, reflecting a shift towards a more responsible and thoughtful approach to design. At Shine, we are excited to incorporate these trends into our projects, continuing to create spaces that are not only beautiful but also sustainable, inclusive, and supportive of overall well-being. Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll explore additional innovative designs and flexible solutions.
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