As we move into 2023, it is fascinating to see how new design trends will shape the way we interact with our built environment. Taking the state of the world and the evolution of our needs into consideration, the design industry is pivoting towards sustainable, eco-friendly, and wellness-focused designs that align with the realities of our daily lives.
Here are a few trends that are expected to be big in 2023:
SUSTAINABLE AND ECO-FRIENDLY DESIGN
The increasing awareness of the importance of reducing our carbon footprint is driving a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally-conscious building practices. This is not only beneficial for the environment but has proven to be cost-effective in the long run.
Expect to see more buildings and homes designed with sustainable and eco-friendly features such as green roofs, which are covered with plants and help to reduce the heat island effect, lower energy consumption, and improve air quality; solar panels, which harness the power of the sun to generate electricity and reduce dependence on fossil fuels; and rainwater harvesting systems, which have become more common since Cape Town’s drought, as an easy way to conserve water and reduce dependence on municipal water supplies.
BIOPHILIC DESIGN
This is an architectural and design approach that emphasises the connection between people and nature, with the core idea being the incorporation of natural elements into the built environment to create a more harmonious and healthy living space. From living walls that purify the air to indoor gardens that provide a peaceful oasis, these natural elements can help to create a sense of calm and balance, making the built environment more hospitable and comfortable.
These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space but also have a positive impact on the physical and mental health of the inhabitants. Biophilic design can help to reduce stress, improve air quality, and boost overall mood which is particularly relevant in urban areas where green spaces are scarce, and people are looking for ways to bring a touch of nature into their homes and workplaces.
SMART HOMES
Smart home technology is becoming increasingly popular in South Africa as a way to make our homes more convenient, energy-efficient, and secure. This technology allows homeowners to remotely control various systems in their home such as lighting, temperature, and security, using a smartphone or other connected device. You can easily adjust the temperature in your home before you arrive, turn off lights you left on, or check on the security of your home while you're away.
When you’re at home, voice-activated assistants like Google Home or Amazon Alexa can answer any questions or activate tasks completed by other smart devices. With the advancements in technology, smart home systems are becoming more affordable and accessible, making it easier for homeowners to install and use.
FLEXIBLE SPACES
Remote work has been on the rise in recent years, and this trend is expected to continue in 2023. With more people embracing hybrid and remote working, the need for flexible spaces in homes has become increasingly important. The traditional concept of a home office, a dedicated room for work, is no longer the best solution for a comfortable and productive space in your home.
Designs that include flexible spaces such as multipurpose rooms in homes, which can be used as a home office, a guest room, or a playroom, depending on the need, as well as common spaces for co-working or events in apartment blocks, are becoming more popular. These spaces are designed to be adaptable to different uses, allowing for efficient use of space and reducing the need for multiple rooms with specific purposes. It can also benefit the environment by reducing the need for multiple rooms and the energy consumption associated with it.
WELLNESS SPACES
Wellness spaces are becoming increasingly popular as people place a greater emphasis on their health and wellbeing. These spaces are designed to promote physical and mental wellness and can include features such as yoga and meditation rooms, saunas, and home gyms.
Yoga and meditation rooms provide a quiet and serene space for people to practice yoga, meditation and other forms of mindfulness. These rooms are often designed with natural light and materials that promote a sense of tranquillity and relaxation. Saunas provide a space for people to relax, unwind and detox, and are known for their health benefits, such as reducing stress, improving heart health, and boosting the immune system. Home gyms, whether indoor or outdoor, provide a space for people to maintain their physical health, fitness and overall wellbeing, with equipment for cardio and strength training.
As people become more conscious about their physical and mental health, these spaces are more in demand, and designers are incorporating them into more projects to provide a more holistic living experience.