TREND BOARDS 2024

THE STRESS(LESS) CONSUMER Steady as she goes... After more than three years of uncertainty and being overwhelmed by data smog and micro change, this character profile is weary and wants regularity in their daily home and work lives. The stress(less) consumer is looking for consistency to maintain control and a healthy work-life balance. They will opt for frictionless commerce, backed up by a seamless consumer experience that is as speedy as possible. For these consumers, efficiency can be achieved on different terms and the concept of working smarter, not harder, has become a mainstream sentiment.

THE HOME

Colours are inspired by the natural materials of wood, marble and stone, giving them a comforting and reassuring quality that doesn’t overwhelm the senses – perfect for environments that require focus. Warming neutrals are also versatile and timeless enough to have long-term appeal, making them ideal for consumers who are making their hybrid home set-ups more permanent.

Smart technology increasingly becomes discreet and more ambient – embedded, invisible in the home. Anything that can serve multiple functions or shape shift as our needs change will have a stronger appeal - flexible homes to adapt to us. Hybrid working set-ups become more long-term and comfortable.

Comfort will be a key motivator and this trend will spill over into the realm of stress-relieving treats and indulgences. Cocooning curves, plump forms, tactile surfaces, soothing colours, and soft, breathable materials used for furniture, apparel and tech accessories. With financial uncertainty on the horizon, the comfort of familiar retro styles will also remain popular, updated with fresh colours and materials.

People explore broken-plan spaces that can accommodate a range of purposes.