6 Latest Trends in Interior Design- the Architect’s eye
2022 Queensland Architecture Awards:
Leaders in the construction industry are changing the world with these 6 trends.
Last night the 2022 Queensland Architecture Awards were presented at the Sate Library and I am so impressed with the quality of design from our local architects.
Not only are my colleagues designing incredible places, uplifting spaces and well resolved, functional buildings but they are changing the way we think about buildings in general. More about that in another post.
I was lucky enough to be jury captain for the Interior Architecture category of the architecture awards and this is what I learned:
1. Queensland is in great hands- the quality of the interior design was fantastic and the clients were very happy.
2. Indoor planting is making a big comeback and the most popular plant used to create vertical drama to the interiors was Pothus Ivy. Green walls were also used extensively to create healthy, lush foyers. Mid Town Workplace by Cox Architecture created a wonderful interior atrium in a Charlotte Street office building with the ivy forming dramatic green columns running the 5 stories high.
3. Most exemplary projects follow a narrative – it is the story behind the project that influences the design, materials, fixtures and fittings. Narratives give structure and purpose to the design and the strongest narrative produce the best architecture.
4. Good interior design changes lives. It can make the users feel good, make their lives easier and inspire them to live better lives. Good architecture is educational. By facilitating and supporting the every-day tasks, the users are free to concentrate on work and build a better future for us all. Setting an example for good sustainable design is just one way architects change the world.
5. Architecture and Interior Design can change work cultures particularly in the post Covid world. The winner of this category (BVN) did just this by introducing natural ventilation into a city high rise. They created an "openable" verandah space on the perimeter of the floor plate, allowing their staff to access natural light, ventilation and greenery.
6. We used to call them “break out spaces” but workplaces are being transformed to include many relaxation and informal areas where workers can relax and move around in comfort to work in what-ever manner they are comfortable. Gone are the individual workstations where workers were “stuck” all day. High end “End of Trip” facilities” are incorporated to encourage exercise, walking and cycling to work without be worry of changing in a toilet!