Today we are going to talk about design (no surprise there) but not any design. The design of the future. The one that moves the lines, the one that juggles inclusivity innovation, ecology, and customization. Not that easy to describe this concept as it constantly evolves, in regards to emerging trends in technology, lifestyle, sustainability and culture. However, together we will try to predict the future.
It’s difficult to predict exactly what the design of the future will look like. But, we can identify some current trends that could influence the design of the future. What will be the main pillars of the new consumers? What will be the emerging aspirations that brands will have to consider? Here’s a non-exhaustive list to help you see this more clearly.
Today we are going to talk about design (no surprise there) but not any design. The design of the future. The one that moves the lines, the one that juggles inclusivity innovation, ecology, and customization. Not that easy to describe this concept as it constantly evolves, in regards to emerging trends in technology, lifestyle, sustainability and culture. However, together we will try to predict the future.
It’s difficult to predict exactly what the design of the future will look like. But, we can identify some current trends that could influence the design of the future. What will be the main pillars of the new consumers? What will be the emerging aspirations that brands will have to consider? Here’s a non-exhaustive list to help you see this more clearly.
Let's start with (not the least) sustainability.
Designers are looking to create products that minimize environmental impact and are sustainable; like Cazoolo which is Braskem’s packaging design lab. It’s an innovative hub that hosts a creative community, where consumers, entrepreneurs, designers or startups can meet to rethink packaging from a more sustainable design approach, designing the entire process -from conception to post-consumption- with a view to circularity and reducing environmental impact. Indeed, the watchword will be -and already is- to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly with recyclable materials, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and reusable products.
Designers are looking to create products that minimize environmental impact and are sustainable; like Cazoolo which is Braskem’s packaging design lab. It’s an innovative hub that hosts a creative community, where consumers, entrepreneurs, designers or startups can meet to rethink packaging from a more sustainable design approach, designing the entire process -from conception to post-consumption- with a view to circularity and reducing environmental impact. Indeed, the watchword will be -and already is- to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly with recyclable materials, environmentally friendly manufacturing processes and reusable products.
Added to this is the fact that new consumers are looking for authenticity and simplicity above all! This means products that are honest, transparent, with a clear history or origin. No more products that are industrially produced or have a very (too) complex list of ingredients.
Added to this is the fact that new consumers are looking for authenticity and simplicity above all! This means products that are honest, transparent, with a clear history or origin. No more products that are industrially produced or have a very (too) complex list of ingredients. Some brands are already offering the experience of truth in fighting the absurdity of the food industry, like the brand, .nod.
This development is partly linked to a growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of consumption. In the end, consumers are looking for brands that match their values and lifestyle, and that are in line with their worldview.
Added to this is the fact that new consumers are looking for authenticity and simplicity above all! This means products that are honest, transparent, with a clear history or origin. No more products that are industrially produced or have a very (too) complex list of ingredients. Some brands are already offering the experience of truth in fighting the absurdity of the food industry, like the brand, .nod.
This development is partly linked to a growing awareness of the environmental and social impact of consumption. In the end, consumers are looking for brands that match their values and lifestyle, and that are in line with their worldview.
Let's continue our predictions with innovation and technology.
Let’s continue our predictions with innovation and technology. How can we miss this growing phenomenon that promises to bring many benefits to our society? Our media is being invaded by ChatGPT, AI, Metaverse and many others. These technological advances could transform the way we design our products, services and spaces. Virtual and augmented realities could enable immersive experiences in virtual environments, while 3D printing could allow for increased customization of products. This could greatly enhance the user experience by allowing consumers to interact with brands and the products they offer.
These technological developments will also allow brands to offer consumers a personalized experience based on their preferences and needs.
One of the key pillars for companies will be to address the needs of ALL users by reaching out to audiences previously invisible to certain markets with more accessible and inclusive designs that will have to become the norm. Some brands have already understood this, such as Dove with its commitment to body positivity #NeverBeforeRetouch and its “Real Virtual Beauty” campaign, challenging the representation of women in video games to help make the virtual world a positive space for everyone. Inclusivity is no longer a niche market, it’s and will be part of our daily lives and values!
One of the key pillars for companies will be to address the needs of ALL users by reaching out to audiences previously invisible to certain markets with more accessible and inclusive designs that will have to become the norm. Some brands have already understood this, such as Dove with its commitment to body positivity #NeverBeforeRetouch and its “Real Virtual Beauty” campaign, challenging the representation of women in video games to help make the virtual world a positive space for everyone. Inclusivity is no longer a niche market, it’s and will be part of our daily lives and values!
To conclude, it’s important to note that design is a constantly evolving field and that these trends are only forecasts; the future is unpredictable. These trends can change rapidly depending on political, economic, social and technological events in the world.
