Fear of the unknown is natural and, at the start of the year, it is not unusual to feel trepidatious about what lies ahead. If recent years have shown us anything, it’s that trying to predict the future is a futile endeavour, but look forward we must.
Like many in our industry I’m wary of the term ‘trends’, which seems too fickle, fleeting and transitory for a landscape where quality, longevity and environmental impact should be defining factors. That said, far far away from the madness of the many brands pushing radically different colours of the year and the horror of anything labelled ‘xxxx’-core, it’s still ever-relevant to examine the wider movements, directions and ideas that will shape the world of design as we move into 2024 in a considered way.
So, here you have it, our first issue of the year. It’s not going to tell you which colour to paint your front door or what the next air fryer is set to be. Instead, take it as a modern manifesto highlighting the discussion points defining the here and now, as well as the months and years ahead.
What's everyone reading?
So, yes, artificial intelligence is going to play an ever increasing role in product, interior and architectural design, but you’d be wrong to dismiss this technology as pure evil, set on taking our jobs and eradicating humanity (read our analysis on p58). We explore how to approach spaces for those with restricted mobility, mental-health issues or disabilities in a contemporary and aesthetically elevated way. Then, we delve into how to rethink our approach to sustainability and show why British manufacturing needs to be championed more than ever before.
And, just because we’re not expounding on the merits of ‘Peach Fuzz’ or ‘Sweet Embrace’ (all sounds a bit sickly to me), it doesn’t mean colour and how it’s used won’t continue to be crucial parts of all we do. Take our shoot highlighting the contemporary clout of colour-drench decorating, and a London home where its use is the bold boot up the backside I feel we all need at this time of year. As its owner Emily Johnson asks, ‘Why not have a bit of fun and escapism?’ Why not, indeed?
