Commercial Interior Designer: Current and Predicted Commercial Design Trends
This guide explores key trends shaping commercial interior design, helping a commercial interior designer create trendy and memorable office, retail & restaurant spaces.
With the commercial interior design industry growing and changing by the day, keeping updated with the most recent trends is of the essence. Whether it is a shop, restaurant, or office space, understanding what is trendy can help you create a welcoming and memorable environment.
Trends in commercial design are being driven by changes in society, technological developments and the evolving tastes of consumers.
Key Trends in Commercial Interior Design
The commercial design landscape is undergoing a revolutionary change. With evolving customer needs and constant technological progress, companies are more inclined than ever to rethink the design of their spaces. This section outlines the main trends that will characterize the development of commercial interiors in the future, giving valuable insights for businesses that would like to have their work environments appealing, convenient, and sustainable.
Resimmercial Design
The post-COVID era has blurred the lines between home and work. In response, “resimercial” design combines residential comforts with commercial functionality. Offices are adopting cozy elements like plush seating, warm lighting, and home-inspired layouts to foster a sense of well-being and boost employee productivity. Imagine working in an environment with ergonomic chairs that feel like your favorite armchair, bathed in soft, natural light that mimics the comfort of your living room. This human-centric approach to office design is poised to revolutionize the way we work.
The post-COVID era has blurred the lines between home and work. In response, “resimercial” design combines residential comforts with commercial functionality. Offices are adopting cozy elements like plush seating, warm lighting, and home-inspired layouts to foster a sense of well-being and boost employee productivity. Imagine working in an environment with ergonomic chairs that feel like your favorite armchair, bathed in soft, natural light that mimics the comfort of your living room. This human-centric approach to office design is poised to revolutionize the way we work.
Examples of Resimercial Design
- Collaborative Lounges:
The days when the meetings were held in the boring ‘conference rooms’ of the past are over. Resmericiel design borrows the bulky arm chairs, coffee tables and throws to simulate an at-home environment to encourage collaboration. Imagine electric or gas fireplaces that will be warm and make you feel cozy and imagine you have a white noise machine to help you mask and keep the unwanted background noise as well as to enhance your focus. This creates a more relaxed and creative atmosphere for the team meetings and brainstorming sessions.
- Breakout Nooks:
To promote employee well-being and recharge during the workday, incorporate breakout zones. These designated areas feature comfortable seating like plush armchairs and ottomans with side tables for beverages. Some zones can offer a curated selection of books and ambient lighting for quiet reading. Others can provide noise-canceling headphones for focused relaxation. This variety caters to different preferences and fosters a more productive work environment.
Sustainability
Businesses are increasingly conscious of their environmental impact. Sustainability is no longer an afterthought; it’s a priority. By opting for sustainable materials, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly furnishings, companies can create greener commercial spaces. This not only benefits the environment but can also resonate with environmentally conscious customers and employees. Look for materials like recycled plastic or rapidly renewable bamboo, invest in appliances with high energy-star ratings, and choose furniture made from sustainably sourced wood. Every green choice adds up to a more sustainable future.
Examples of Sustainable Choices in Commercial Design:
- Energy-Efficient Lighting:
Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED lighting throughout the space. LEDs use significantly less energy while offering comparable brightness, leading to substantial cost savings on electricity bills. They also last much longer, reducing waste generated from frequent bulb replacements.
- Water-Saving Features:
Install low-flow faucets and toilets in restrooms and kitchens. These fixtures use less water per use, minimizing water consumption without sacrificing functionality. Additionally, consider incorporating rainwater harvesting systems to collect rainwater for irrigation or other non-potable uses.
Minimalism vs. Maximalism
The design spectrum offers two distinct yet popular approaches: minimalism and maximalism.
Minimalism:
Simplified, clutter-free spaces with carefully chosen colors and furnishings create a serene atmosphere. Think clean lines, monochromatic palettes, and purposeful furniture placement. This approach is ideal for promoting focus and concentration, making it a popular choice for offices and co-working spaces.
A minimalist office might feature:
- Open floor plan with clear walkways for easy movement.
- Neutral color palette for walls, furniture, and flooring, like white, beige, or gray.
- Limited furniture with clean lines and hidden storage to minimize clutter.
- Natural light maximized by large windows.
- Strategic task lighting for focused work areas.
This creates a simple and uncluttered environment that promotes focus and concentration.
Maximalism:
Bold, vibrant, and eclectic, maximalist design embraces mismatched patterns, rich textures, and eye-catching details. This approach is all about creating a stimulating and visually engaging environment, often seen in bars, restaurants, and retail stores.
A maximalist retail store might showcase:
- Bold and contrasting colors on walls and furniture, creating a dynamic atmosphere.
- A mix of patterns and textures on fabrics, flooring, and wall art, for a visually stimulating experience.
- Eye-catching displays with unique lighting and props to highlight merchandise.
- Abundant furniture and decor creating a layered and visually interesting space.
This maximalist approach aims to grab attention, create a memorable experience, and encourage exploration of the products on display.
Color Trends
Pantone’s color of the year for 2023 is Viva Magenta, a dynamic and joyful hue. Expect bright, playful colors to dominate commercial spaces, reflecting a shift towards a more optimistic and energetic atmosphere. However, don’t underestimate the power of color psychology. Blues can promote calmness and focus, greens evoke feelings of freshness and growth, while yellows can energize and inspire creativity. Consider your target audience and the desired mood when selecting a color palette. For instance, a tech startup might utilize bright yellows and oranges to convey innovation, while a spa might opt for calming blues and lavenders to promote relaxation.
Biophilic Design
Biophilic design integrates nature into interiors, fostering a connection with the natural world. This can be achieved through living walls teeming with lush greenery, the incorporation of natural materials like wood and stone, and the use of large windows that bathe the space in sunlight. Biophilic elements have been shown to enhance well-being, reduce stress, and improve productivity. Imagine a workspace with a cascading living wall, its vibrant foliage purifying the air and adding a touch of tranquility. Biophilic design is a powerful tool for creating healthy and inspiring environments.
Bottom Line
These design trends are here to inspire, not dictate! When working with a commercial interior designer, you can pick and choose what works best for your brand. Whether it’s minimalism, maximalism, or a mix, focus on being eco-friendly and creating a space that users will enjoy. The future of commercial design is wide open – team up with a designer to create a space that reflects your brand and makes a lasting impression.