Global Design Trends

As I reflect on 2024 and look ahead to 2025, a few fascinating trends emerge—subtle, profound shifts that I believe will deeply influence the way we approach design. Design, at its best, is never static. It evolves, reflecting our changing needs, aspirations, and cultural moments. The trends shaping 2025 are not just technical or aesthetic—they are profoundly human. They speak to our growing desire for simplicity, meaning, and a deeper connection to the world around us. 1. Radical Simplicity In a world saturated with complexity, the most compelling designs will not add more—they will strip away. Products and experiences will become increasingly reductive, not minimalist for its own sake, but as a pursuit of clarity and purpose. This is simplicity as a discipline. 2. Adaptive Design for Every Context 2025 will see the rise of designs that respond to the world around them. From furniture that reconfigures to fit its environment, to interfaces that adapt intuitively to the user, the future is not static—it is fluid, dynamic, and alive. 3. A New Material Language Our relationship with materials is changing. Expect to see a surge in the use of bio-engineered materials that mimic organic structures, alongside innovations in upcycled composites that challenge traditional notions of luxury and quality. 4. Emotional Technology The interaction between humans and technology is becoming more nuanced. We are moving beyond utility to embrace emotional resonance. Devices and tools will be designed to evoke empathy, warmth, and a sense of companionship—a stark contrast to the cold efficiency of earlier generations. 5. Sustainability Beyond the Obvious Sustainability is no longer a choice; it is a baseline. What’s new is the lens through which it is viewed. Designers will prioritize regenerative practices, creating products that don’t just sustain but restore—both to the planet and to our sense of responsibility. 6. Universal Design with Nuance Inclusivity will expand beyond accessibility to celebrate individuality. Products and systems will be crafted not for the average user but for the spectrum of humanity, embracing diversity with greater elegance and sophistication.

Design is always evolving, but there’s one shift I’ve noticed. A connection to spaces that feel inviting and human, The Rise of Organic Aesthetics. More and more, people are moving away from the sharp, geometric lines that once defined modern interiors. Instead, they’re gravitating toward softer curves, fluid forms, and tactile fabrics like bouclé that bring warmth and a sense of comfort into their spaces. I’ve experienced this transformation myself during my visits to some of the most renowned design exhibitions across the globe. At these events, one standout was a collection of fluid-shaped stone tables inspired by the curves of riverbeds, a perfect mix of art and practicality that reflects the shift toward organic aesthetics. I’ve also noticed the use of natural, sustainable materials, like raw wood and terracotta, crafted into enduring designs. These materials don’t just look beautiful, they bring a sense of grounding and authenticity to modern spaces, making the connection between design and nature even stronger. I feel India is no longer just a sourcing hub for affordable furniture. I’m seeing a rise in Indian brands creating globally competitive designs that demand attention.

Four promising trends driving design innovation now Commercial real estate is entering a new era—one shaped by technology, sustainability, and evolving expectations about how and where we work. This moment offers an opportunity to reimagine the built environment, aligning innovation with human-centric design.  More than ever, it's important to create spaces that blend experience, flexibility, and tech integration—while also enhancing wellbeing and fostering connection. Pure aesthetics won’t cut it anymore. Trend #1: Designing for a ‘street to seat’ experience  This strategy prioritizes seamless transitions—from city streets to workstations, retail, and entertainment—by incorporating high-quality shared amenities, end-of-commute facilities, and curated retail and dining experiences. In workplaces, this translates to smarter booking systems, distinctive space designs, and tailored perks that make offices more inviting.   Trend #2: Reimagining spaces for social connection and community  After years of fluctuating office attendance, our research shows that the top reasons people return to the office are social connection and office culture. Well-designed spaces that foster collaboration and belonging are becoming a must-have in both workplaces and neighborhoods.  That’s why forward-looking organizations are working with psychologists and social scientists to design environments that promote authentic interactions—from shared dining experiences to immersive event spaces. This approach offers a competitive edge in a market where connection-driven spaces stand out. Trend #3: Unlocking value through adaptive reuse and retrofitting  With growing sustainability demands, clients are investing in adaptive re-use and retrofitting to meet environmental and social needs. In 2025, we’re seeing more focus on energy efficiency, wellness features, and aligning branding with sustainability goals.  The shift reflects changing employee and consumer expectations. JLL research shows 60% of employers plan to increase investment in building refurbishments and sustainability over the next five years. Properties embracing urban regeneration, circular design, and green spaces will command premium market positions as they increase visibility around their eco-credentials. Trend #4: Embracing AI tools for science-led design  From generative AI shaping architectural concepts to neuroscience-driven workplace optimization, its impact is accelerating—and many organizations are exploring how to apply it effectively. Emerging fields like neuro-architecture are showing how AI can combine psychology, biomedicine, and environmental science to optimize spaces for wellbeing and productivity.    Together, by combining research-driven insights, people-centric strategies, and cutting-edge technology, we're helping our clients create spaces that don’t just keep up with change—they set the standard for what’s next. 

Just got back from #KBIS — and a few shifts felt bigger than just product launches. Here are the signals I’m paying attention to: 1. The channel feels crowded — and more niche than ever. Brands are carving out smaller wedges, but most are playing it safe. A hand shower designed specifically for African American women with curly hair or a 70s/80s-inspired funk collection are good examples. At the same time, design is moving more traditional. Technology is increasingly hidden inside familiar, comforting forms. In uncertain times, people gravitate toward what they know. 2. Wellness is no longer a trend — it’s a structural shift. More saunas. More steam. More emphasis on recovery and daily rituals. The bathroom continues to evolve from a functional space → a personal wellness zone. 3. AI is reshaping specification sales. A Houzz presentation on how interior designers use AI was eye-opening. Specs, renderings, and decision cycles are accelerating dramatically. It’s not surprising we’re seeing large organizations reduce traditional specification sales teams. The process is changing fast. 4. Water filtration is heating up — fast. Several strong signals: Whole-house filtration companies reporting ~30% YoY growth. Testing labs reporting record demand for water filter certifications. Major brands expanding into point-of-use and whole-home solutions. Consumers are actively looking for solutions — not just fixtures. 5. End-to-end solutions are the next frontier The next generation increasingly outsources everything (this is what I hear). Convenience wins. Brands that can move from “product” to “solution” will have an advantage.

Trendy Today, Cheugy Tomorrow: Future-Proofing RE in the Age of Viral Design One day, it’s millennial pink. The next, it’s Barbiecore hot pink. Blink, and suddenly moody gothic interiors have taken over. Design trends are moving faster than ever—thanks to TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram—and what’s hot today is “cheugy” by next quarter. This warp-speed trend cycle isn’t just about fashion or home decor—it’s shaping how we design public spaces, branded environments, and even entire developments. But here’s the problem: Buildings aren’t fast fashion. For real estate developers and brands investing in long-term spaces, the challenge isn’t just about keeping up—it’s about designing for longevity in a world obsessed with instant gratification. So, how do we stay relevant without chasing a moment that will be over before the paint dries? Here’s the Playbook for Timeless-But-Trendy Design: ➕ Design for Evolution, Not Just the Now. What was once a 20-year trend cycle has now shrunk to just a few years—sometimes even months. Spaces should be adaptive, modular, and designed to flex with changing cultural and consumer expectations. Think about moveable partitions, mixed-use spaces, and digital layers that can refresh a place without a full-scale renovation. ➕ Tap into Cultural Movements, Not Just Aesthetics. Trends aren’t random—they’re signals of deeper societal shifts. ▪️ The rise of biophilic design? A response to urban stress and a growing need for nature in daily life. ▪️ The shift to "quiet luxury" and warm minimalism? A rejection of hyper-consumerism and digital burnout. ▪️ The popularity of vibrant "dopamine decor"? A push for self-expression post-pandemic. Understanding why these movements happen helps create spaces that feel meaningful, not just trendy. ➕ Design for ‘Shareability,’ but with Substance. Yes, social media can make a space famous overnight. But the most successful places aren’t just Instagrammable—they’re immersive, functional, and create real emotional connections. ▪️ Restaurants are incorporating dynamic lighting and layered textures that evolve throughout the day. ▪️ Retail brands are gamifying their spaces with interactive experiences instead of just aesthetic backdrops. ▪️ Developers are investing in experiential placemaking—designing public spaces that encourage organic social engagement beyond just a selfie moment. The Bottom Line: The TikTokification of design isn’t slowing down—but great real estate doesn’t have to get lost in the churn. The future belongs to spaces that blend cultural awareness with long-term thinking—staying relevant without sacrificing authenticity. #DesignTrends #ExperienceDesign #Branding #Placemaking #FutureOfDesign #REDevelopment #RealEstate

Architecture & Design | Mid-August Market Pulse: As summer winds down, I’ve been tracking some of the recent developments shaping our industry—from emerging material tech to cultural restoration and shifts in how we approach public space. Here’s a quick look at what’s caught my eye over the past few weeks: 🔹 A new supertall is rising in Midtown Foster + Partners’ 350 Park Avenue (1,585 ft) is moving forward—an interesting signal as commercial towers evolve post-remote. 🔹 The U.S. is getting its tallest mass timber tower Milwaukee’s “The Edison” will soon break records for timber high-rise construction. Timber’s momentum continues. 🔹 AI meets architecture at the Venice Biennale Interactive, bilingual AI guides are being used to help visitors navigate content—rethinking accessibility and engagement in design exhibitions. 🔹 Indigenous housing innovation in Ontario A 3D-printed housing pilot blends cultural identity with robotic construction—designed with the community, not just for it. 🔹 Design education focused on net-zero futures Students in Pennsylvania proposed a youth center designed to be energy-neutral as part of the DOE’s BuildingsNEXT challenge. 🔹 Cultural preservation, with purpose Bernat Klein Studio (Scotland) was saved from demolition and will become a creative hub; meanwhile, Edinburgh’s historic Lamb’s House hits the market. 🔹 Trends I’m tracking: Sustainability is more integrated than ever. Mass timber, passive house principles, and AI are all pushing the boundaries—not as trends, but as evolving parts of practice. If you’re seeing any of this reflected in your work or have thoughts on what’s shaping your corner of the industry, I’d love to hear it. #architecture #designtrends #massTimber #passivhaus #aiindesign #culturalpreservation #netzero #materialinnovation

Have we moved past "Nostalgia as a Vibe"? Gen Z is responding to what researchers are calling a period of ambient chaos, defined by overstimulation, content overload, and persistent digital noise. The response? A shift toward deliberate, almost cinematic aesthetics. Design that feels hand-built, time-traveled, and strangely ahead of its time. Nearly two-thirds of Gen Z respondents are actively drawn to styles from past eras. That's not a niche. That's a majority. >>The numbers that matter right now: Gen Z holds over $360 billion in spending power, and vintage aesthetics are one of their primary decision filters! Millennials and Gen Z are projected to account for roughly 45% of the luxury retail market by end of 2025. Luxury brands that ignore their aesthetic language are playing a short game. Nearly 1 in 4 global users now report engaging more in nostalgic hobbies, including collecting vintage items. >>Why vintage themes, specifically? Design in 2026 is shifting away from polished minimalism. As visual sameness grows, expressive styles are reclaiming attention. Gen Z and Gen Alpha are reconnecting to historical aesthetics, and AI tools are accelerating this shift by making illustrative design faster to produce and easier to scale. Brands are going back to the blueprint. Grain overlays, chrome finishes, matte paper effects, neon on dark fields. The textures of a future that was imagined before it happened. In a world of infinite digital gloss, analog soul is the rarest. The common thread across luxury right now is a deep respect for the human hand. As artificial intelligence becomes more present in design, the value of hand-crafted, hand-etched, visibly made work increases. >>A winning theme for 2027. A winning theme for 2027 packaging and brand identity will be "Retro-Futurism", fusing 70s typography, 90s references, and Y2K aesthetics with modern layouts. Gen Z finds comfort in nostalgia but craves innovation, so the "old meets new" approach offers both. Gen Z and Millennials are now embracing eras they never personally experienced, transforming secondhand memories into cultural currency. Accio That's a creative brief, not just a trend report. >>Art direction styles still worth your attention. These aren't nostalgic footnotes. They're strategic signals, of craft, of story, of a brand that has something to say beyond a product. → Atomic Age / Mid-Century Modern Illustration → Space Age & Cosmic Glamour → Synthwave / Neon Grid Aesthetics → Analog Sci-Fi Poster Art → Y2K Futurism / Chrome & Bubble Motifs The brands already speaking this language. Explore the full curated collection of luxury past inspo, and find your own creative direction for what comes next. Bulgari · Chanel · Dior · Dolce & Gabbana · Moschino · Gucci · Hermès · Loewe · Jean Paul Gaultier · Rabanne · Thierry Mugler #LuxuryDesign #VintageIllustration #GenZ #BrandStrategy #LuxuryMarketing #NostalgiaMarketing #BeautyBusiness #FashionBranding

Our CMF Design Trend Report 2026–2027 is now available to download. This report was developed in close collaboration between my team and the Korea Institute of Design Promotion KIDP and it reflects a question I’ve been exploring more and more with clients: how do shifting social values and cultural behaviours translate into real, competitive manufacturing decisions? Rather than focusing on abstract trend forecasting, the report connects six key macro-trends — from Hear My Voice and De-Technology to Re-Sustainability — directly to materials, colours and finishes, offering practical CMF guidelines across six industries, including consumer #tech, #automotive, #interiors, #fashion and #packaging. My hope is that this report helps brands use CMF not just as a styling tool, but as a strategic layer embedded within their design DNA. The report is available for free download here: https://lnkd.in/e7iQ7Jr8

4 design trends I predict for 2026 👀 I’ve been watching design behaviour closely this year, across branding, packaging, socials, and the tools we’re all using more and more. These are my personal observations, but I’m already seeing the early signals: ➡️ Naive / scribble-sketch illustration isn’t slowing down. We’re craving more human, imperfect design, especially in food, beverage and lifestyle brands. ➡️ AI-assisted hybrids will become mainstream. Not AI-slop. Not “AI instead of designers.” But designers using AI to test concepts and bring ideas to life faster. ➡️ 3D text + objects are about to be everywhere. Tools are getting easier, demand for immersive visuals is rising, and 3D just sells a concept in a way flat graphics never quite can. ➡️ Canva animations will explode. Canva levelled up massively (like HUGE) this year, and we’ll see more brands using subtle motion to grab attention on social. You’ll see more of these from me too. None of these trends are random. And some have been predicted in previous years but that doesn’t mean they go away. They’re happening because of behaviour shifts, tool evolution and the desire for more personality in design. I could have included a bunch more, or even just google what others have predicted, but I thought I’d put my two cents out there instead. If you want to see the Canva animation example… they’re on my Instagram 👀 (LinkedIn still won’t let us upload images + video in a carousel… can we please get this feature soon?!) What trends are you noticing? Which ones do you think will dominate 2026? PS. None of these products are real brands but I kind of wish they were 😅