In this article, we take an exclusive look at one of four trends forecast for Spring-Summer 2017. Recently revealed at the International Home + Housewares Show during our Home and Interior Design Trends 2017 presentation, we share Activate.
Activate takes influence from the rise of smart technology assisting our everyday routines. This trend highlights how these changes in consumer behavior are filtering through to the design and performance of the home.
With a focus on efficiency, we see a rise in everyday objects becoming intelligent products that seamlessly adjust to the user’s lifestyle. As the concept of the smart home becomes more prevalent, there are increasing demands on the home to perform almost like an athlete.
Smart objects discreetly strike a balance between performance technology and design aesthetic, integrating seamlessly into modern and minimal décor. After a focus on natural materials for several seasons, Activate documents an increase in synthetic materials, as they become more desirable once again in the home. Plastic-coated metals and silicone are paired with pale woods and matt ceramics for a softer, more premium finish.
Color
Inspired by sport performance, fitness and well-being, the color palette for this trend offers a refreshing update to pastels within the home. Although influenced by sport, the result is actually a calming palette of cool pastel shades. Harmonious icy greens and cool petit four blues are balanced with chalky grey neutrals and offset with delicate peachy pinks. This palette provides the basis for a sporty style that finds a place in the home.
What are the Key Design Details of Activate
Hiding wires and assisting the workflow of the kitchen, furniture adapts to this seamless approach to living. Circular forms and primary shapes offer an overall minimal look, while inner segments provide maximum functionality through separate hidden compartments. Prominent in product design, we see pie chart color formations translate into print and pattern; the surface design of circular tableware becomes sliced into quadrants and semi-circles.
Perforated Surfaces
Perforated metals and plastics offer a textured alternative to surface patterned appliances and utensils. By combining two-tone colors, this mesh effect blends well with technology, integrating it in a decorative way.
Diagonal Stripes
Fine lines and stripes change direction, creating decorative diagonal formations for surface design. Patterns vary from color blocking and overlapping stripes to fine line placement, which add a subtle touch of color. This translates into product design, with stripes and crosshatching offering a graphic construction to kitchen and dining accessories. Textiles are also influenced by this trend, as fabrics are strong and intricately woven.
Lozenge Shapes
Semi circle and lozenge shapes make gadgets of the kitchen appear softened with rounded corners and elongated shape. These simplistic forms blend seamlessly into the kitchen, offering an understated look and feel.
Our Home and Interior Design Trends 2017 presentation is now available to stream online. To listen, visit the Innovation Theater page on the International Home + Housewares Show website at www.housewares.org/show/innovation-theater.
Trend Bible has published a comprehensive Trade Show report detailing the key trends spotted at the 2016 International Home + Housewares Show. For more information on how to get your copy, get in touch with our enquiries team: enquiries@trendbible.com or visit our online store at www.trendbible.com/shop/.
To receive updates on the newest releases by Trend Bible and insight into the latest trends sign up to free newsletter at www.trendbible.com.
