Page 63 - AmericasMart: Market Magazine July 2017

Image: Global Views
Image: Rework Furnishings
MODULAR LIFESTYLES
As consumers streamline their home product assortment, modular structures and transformable fixtures are becoming a critical opportunity. Allowing for flexible uses, while offering sustainable approaches, brands explore new ways to maximize space and cater to shifting needs. Unnecessary details are removed, and function dictates form for a modern utilitarian aesthetic.
NEW NATURALS
As brands and designers focus on evolving commercial solutions to natural waste and sustainable materials, expect to see an uptick in repurposed waste becoming a modern material for design. Composites made of mushrooms, sea algae and other sustainable materials will emerge and evolve into actionable options, allowing brands to design for the conscious, creative consumer.
Image: Lands Downunder
Image: Ann Gish
TACTILITY
There is a warm side to industrial design as materials and designs continue to explore softness, tactility and texture. From thick knits to supple treated or rubberized finishes, products reflect the rise in consumer demand for touchability and a connection to resources.
OPULENT DESIGNS AND FINISHES
Precious minerals and gemstones inspire faceted designs and iridescent or metallic finishes. Giving interiors a glistening quality, this aesthetic celebrates a darker approach to design featuring finishes and materials such as pewter, crystal and velvet.
WGSN is the industry-leading content and technology solution for professionals in the style, fashion and design sectors. For more information, visit wgsn.com.
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