The Design Barometer for July: What's on the Rise, and What's on the Way Out in Interiors, Culture, and...
It's been a scorcher of a month so far, but instead of obsessing over the heat outside, let's shift our focus to the sizzling trends in design. The Zeitgeist Edit is my monthly round-up of the stories and moments that have caught my eye or sparked the imagination of the design world for July. This month, we're diving into new openings, collaborations, sustainable innovations, and even a fresh take on wellness.
So, let's explore the trends that are setting the tone for July.
Going Up: Modular Seats for the Great Outdoors
Saba's Oasi collection, designed by Robin Rizzini and unveiled during Milan Design Week, is a game-changer for outdoor spaces. These modular seats, inspired by the comfort of indoor sofas, offer an organic and flexible seating solution for gardens. The photographs by Piorgiorgio Sorgetti at Puglia's Giardino Botanico La Cutura showcase the beauty of these seats, transforming outdoor areas into cozy oases.
In my opinion, this trend is fascinating because it challenges the notion that outdoor furniture must be basic and uncomfortable. By offering a more sophisticated and customizable seating experience, Saba is elevating the way we interact with our gardens and patios. This shift towards more refined outdoor design could be a sign of a broader cultural movement towards blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.
Twists on Tradition: Liberty x Vinterior
When it comes to heritage fabric brands, Liberty is a powerhouse. But what makes this collaboration with Vinterior particularly intriguing is how it reimagines classic patterns for modern furniture. By reupholstering unique pieces with Liberty fabrics, the collection proves that timelessness is about mixing eras fluently. This approach challenges the idea that vintage and modern styles are mutually exclusive, offering a fresh perspective on interior design.
From my perspective, this trend is a breath of fresh air in a world where design often feels like a never-ending cycle of trends. By embracing the past while pushing boundaries, Liberty and Vinterior are demonstrating that true style transcends time and can be found in unexpected places.
Light and Sound: Fritz Hansen x Technics
Collaborations that bring together seemingly disparate design areas are always exciting. Fritz Hansen's partnership with Technics for Copenhagen's 3 Days of Design is a prime example. By pairing the KAISER idell™ Luxus 6631-T with the Technics SL-40CB, they've created a harmonious blend of light and sound. The oxblood red finish on both pieces adds a touch of drama, making it a statement in any room.
What makes this collaboration particularly fascinating is how it challenges the notion that design tech brands prioritize functionality over aesthetics. By working together, Fritz Hansen and Technics have created a product that is both visually appealing and sonically pleasing. This trend towards integrating technology into design in a more subtle and aesthetically pleasing way could be a sign of a broader shift towards more human-centric design.
Unexpected Saunas: SOAK Bathhouse
Pop-up saunas are the wellness trend of the moment, but what about those who don't have a pebble beach nearby? SOAK, a traveling, off-grid bathhouse, is the solution. Designed by badweather as a series of connected sensory spaces, SOAK offers a sauna, cold plunge, and social area on a 56-foot canal boat. With solar power and a focus on sustainability, it's a retreat for those seeking relaxation without the need for a beachside view.
One thing that immediately stands out is how SOAK challenges the traditional notion of wellness as an exclusive, luxury experience. By making wellness accessible and mobile, they're democratizing the benefits of saunas. This trend towards more inclusive and sustainable wellness practices could be a sign of a broader cultural shift towards prioritizing self-care and well-being.
RH Comes to Mayfair
When RH opened its first outpost in England in 2023, it was a spectacle. Now, with the opening of RH London in Mayfair, the brand is once again making waves. Taking over a historic Palladian mansion, RH has managed to preserve the building's legacy while showcasing its modern, elegant designs. The glass birdcages by Anouska Hempel and the gold-leaf-ceilinged dining room are particularly glitzy highlights.
What many people don't realize is that RH's success in preserving historic buildings while showcasing its designs is a delicate balance. It requires a deep understanding of both the building's history and the brand's aesthetic. This trend towards integrating design into historic spaces could be a sign of a broader cultural movement towards preserving heritage while embracing modern innovation.
Going Down: Unethical Color
Brightly colored ceramic tiles are all the rage, but often they require the use of materials with questionable ethics. The likes of cobalt, cadmium, lead, and rare earth minerals have supply chain issues related to health and sustainability. However, Liverpool-based Granby Workshop has found an alternative approach. By using more common metals and a process called devitrification, they've created a sustainable tile collection that uses half the energy of traditional ceramic firing.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Granby Workshop challenges the notion that sustainability and aesthetics are mutually exclusive. By embracing innovative materials and processes, they're proving that eco-friendly design can be both beautiful and functional. This trend towards more sustainable materials could be a sign of a broader cultural shift towards prioritizing environmental responsibility in design.
Basic Outdoor Taps: Wodar's Design+ Pro-Pull
Outdoor kitchen spaces are becoming increasingly popular, and the elements that make up these al fresco cooking areas are evolving to become more stylish and less outdoorsy. Wodar's Design+ Pro-Pull boiling water tap is a prime example. With the right plumbing and electric setup, it can bring boiling, filtered, sparkling, and chilled water to outdoor kitchen spaces.
What this really suggests is that the line between indoor and outdoor design is blurring. By offering features typically associated with indoor kitchens, Wodar is challenging the notion that outdoor spaces must be basic and utilitarian. This trend towards more integrated and luxurious outdoor design could be a sign of a broader cultural movement towards embracing the outdoors as an extension of the home.
As we approach the halfway point of July, it's clear that the summer is alive with design ideas. Whether it's modular seating, sustainable materials, or unexpected wellness experiences, the trends of the season are pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. So, if you've missed any of these moments, make sure to check out Livingetc's ICYMI feature and sign up for the Livingetc newsletter to stay ahead of the curve.
