Creating design and furniture that reflects the zeitgeist is essential to stay relevant. From the increasing emphasis on wellness spaces, to a more meaningful understanding of sustainability and the rise of AI, the industry is constantly shifting. Stay ahead of the curve with this wrap up of key directions from Decor + Design 2023, as well as macro industry predictions for 2024/25.
The Rise of Conscious Design
From eco-friendly materials to energy-efficient solutions and responsible supply chains, the design industry is both driving and responding to consumer demand for more transparency and sustainability.
Recycled and upcycled materials are gaining prominence, giving new life to old items and reducing waste. In addition, there’s a much bigger emphasis on locally sourced materials and carbon offsetting, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
In 2023, Decor + Design wowed visitors with the inaugural Green Design Hub. Curated by Karie Soehardi of Circular Design Thinking (CDT), it took visitors on a deep exploration of what sustainability in the design industry truly looks like. It also featured beautiful sustainable products available to the industry right now, from brands including Armadillo, Cultivated by Cult Design, Hameland, E9 Design, AH Beard (left), Zepel, ResiLoop, TRAKS Textile Recycling, Cosentino, Enviro Hide and more.
The stand itself was created to be dismantled easily, with components that were able to be reused, recycled or upcycled. Materials and waste were tracked as the stand was assembled and the waste documented, with Decor + Design committing to offset the carbon credits. This carbon neutrality underscored to visitors the need for products to be specified as such in the real world.
The Green Design Hub at Decor + Design 2023
Elevated Home & Office Wellness Spaces
Our fast-paced and digitally-driven world is pressurising our psyches in ever more creative ways. The residential and commercial interior design world is now addressing that pressure with easily accessible wellness spaces within our homes and workplaces.
2024 will see a heightened focus on creating environments that foster physical and mental wellbeing while also elevating the aesthetic. Wellness design aims to bring tranquillity and balance to spaces by incorporating natural elements and soothing colours. Companies such as Decor + Design 2023 exhibitor Cycling Bears are also creating luxury wellness equipment that takes the genre to a more stylish level.
The ‘Cycling Bears’ stand at Decor + Design 2023
Smart technology plays a role in supporting both sustainability and accessibility. Energy-efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems can be controlled remotely, ensuring that resources are used efficiently. This technological integration not only enhances sustainability but also adds convenience and comfort to the living environment.
Greenery is the New Neutral
Over the past few years the shade green has become a comparable neutral to the traditional taupes and whites. Green symbolises growth, renewal and environmental consciousness and soothes in a way which reflects our aforementioned need for wellness. Various shades of green, from soft pastels to deep forest greens, will continue to dominate interior design trends in the coming year, in upholstery, wall paint, decorative accessories and in bold strokes on kitchen cabinets.
Greenery itself has also become a neutral, with biophilic design a major consideration for both interiors and exteriors of buildings. Biophilic design reflects the need for humans to connect with nature on a daily basis.
10 Corso Como, Milan. Image: Lombardia Secrets
Biophilic design also extends to materials such as wood and stone, and creating abundant natural light in interiors. These elements not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to stress reduction, increased productivity, and improved overall health.
Bold Oranges and Blues 
Earthy but vibrant shades of orange are trending for 2024, paired with deep blues and greens. Orange exudes warmth, and a touch of nostalgia. It can be used strategically to add a pop of colour and vibrancy to interior space, or with abandon to drench them in energy.
We love the bold colours in Dulux Australia’s 2024 ‘Muse’ palette and have chosen Flourescent Fire and Passionate Blue as key colours for Decor + Design 2024, offset by a range of greens.
AI for Optimisation
The influence of artificial intelligence in interior design is set to grow exponentially in 2024. AI-powered solutions are transforming the way designers work and how individuals personalise their spaces. From virtual reality simulations to AI-driven design recommendations, technology is shaping the future of interior design.
AI can assist in the selection of colour schemes, furniture layouts, and decor items that align with an individual’s preferences and needs. For example, AI can analyse your design choices and suggest complementary colour palettes, ensuring that your space remains harmonious and aesthetically pleasing. It can also help in optimising the placement of furniture and decor for better flow and functionality.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) applications are also enjoying increasing take up by the industry. These tools allow designers and homeowners to visualise their design concepts in a lifelike 3D environment before making any changes, thereby reducing the risk of costly mistakes and alterations.
Decor + Design’s 2023 AR Partner, Viewa, is one such company virtually bringing furniture to life. Their VisualisAR software allows potential customers to view products in 3D, make real time changes to fabrics, materials & finishes and then place the configured product in their home with a click.
It is designed to make design websites interactive, enhance visualisation and ultimately conversions.
Decor + Design 2024 will mark the 20th anniversary of Australia’s premier trade event for the interiors industry. With the theme of Evolution, the show will pivot to a three-day format from Wednesday 17th – Friday 19th July at Melbourne Exhibition Centre. Subscribe now to stay in the loop and receive updates on the show and the wider world of macro trends.