One of the exciting aspects of design, is how quickly the climate changes. Identifying trends is important in every field and helps companies stay up-to-date, as well as, relevant in an increasingly competitive landscape. 2019 has shown that commercial interiors are changing to reflect a company’s ability to connect with patrons and employees and this approach is holding true for 2020.
The scope of a commercial design project has broadened significantly and has become even more detailed and focused than ever before. Today, the environmental, social and governance aspects of a project are very important (ESG). With ESG being a primary focus for companies, it’s changed what’s trending in the commercial market. Read below for the four major commercial design changes for 2020.
1) Sustainability
Sustainability has been trending in the commercial industry for a while now. Every design needs to be made leaner, greener and more sustainable. Interior Designers see this as an opportunity to embrace materials that are more renewable, use less waste or that help provide an environmental bonus to the space. How do you implement this into a commercial building? Try adding in a plant wall into a lobby (airplants or boxwoods are great) to re-oxygenate the environment) or implement materials from the community into the design.
2) Wellness
Where we spend our time, determines how healthy we are overall. This doesn’t just apply to our homes but also our communities and workspaces. Design strategies such as a nice stairwell, a community garden, exercise rooms or quiet spaces help improve employee wellness.
3) Community
Social connectivity has a deep and positive impact on health and wellness, so spaces we spend time in must invite social interaction. In interior design, community can be fostered with open work spaces, communal dining areas that allow employees to interact with each other or the environment.
4) Authenticity
Companies that are winning in their industries have done a great job at creating an authentic brand- that extends pass the items they offer consumers and is integrated into the designs and offerings of their spaces. In commercial design, this can be implemented in a variety of ways but include integrating character-rich design elements into buildings. Designers frequently source locally to create an authentic connection to the community, like incorporating local materials or commissioning art to pay tribute to the community.
Whether you are starting from scratch or renovating an existing commercial space, it’s important to keep these items in mind. These four principles in conjunction with the companies brand can really create a beautiful space.
