Design

Implications - Consumers are increasingly looking for dual-purpose yard features that not only help in the maintenance and functionality of their yards, but also blend into the surrounding environment so as not to add clutter or detract from the natural appeal of the outdoors. Beyond quality performance, aesthetically pleasing products are imperative for the consumer who wants to get the most out of their limited backyard space. [More]

Implications - With the shift away from clutter towards a more streamlined lifestyle, comes a clean design aesthetic permeating the private sanctuary of the home – the bathroom. Clean lines, minimal color palettes and subtle textures create a harmonic space that allows for unwinding and de-stressing after a long day, or a neat and uncomplicated area to get ready for the day ahead. The movement towards minimalism within the washroom denotes a desire for harmony and tranquility, even in the must functional of spaces. [More]

Implications - As self-care becomes a mainstay for modern consumers, investing in their surroundings becomes a higher priority. Particularly in the bathroom where downtime and pampering take place, consumers are seeking artisanal accessories and fixtures that double as decor for a truly luxurious experience. With priorities shifting towards indulging in oneself, the washroom becomes a reflection of the modern consumer’s desired lifestyle. [More]

Implications - Used to the integration of smartphones and IoT into their daily lives, Millennial consumers starting young families, are looking for ways to incorporate that smart technology into their homes as well. Within the bathroom, we're seeing increasingly high-tech features that allow for complete control of the lavatory experience. From health-monitoring to entertainment, the bathroom is becoming a private sanctuary within the home. [More]

Implications - Engaging consumers visually and emotionally, alcohol packaging that is both imaginative and interactive offers opportunities to create new brand rituals around ready-to-drink beverages. Either through inspiring imagery or unusual packaging styles, beverage brands are enticing new consumers to try out their products based on visuals alone. Particularly useful for newer brands and products that doesn’t have a lot of online credibility yet, an enticing appearance draws in curious experience-seekers. [More]

Implications - Enjoying the fun flavors of pre-mixed beverages, Millennials still seek to look sophisticated while consuming their drinks. Enter streamlined packaging designs that offer a refreshingly minimalistic approach to fun fruity cocktails. As every social situation becomes a photoshoot opportunity, Millennials are hyper aware of their image, often choosing alcohol beverages that suit their stylistic preferences and personal branding. [More]

Implications - Inspired by biophilia, the notion that all humans have an innate desire to be close to nature, office spaces are getting a jolt of fresh energy through an immersive use of plants. Filling a typical meeting room with natural elements gets innovation flowing and incentivizes employees to use their imaginations and think creatively. While taking a step outside of the office often provides a boost for employees, being surrounded by thriving foliage can have a similar effect on morale by resetting the mind to feel more refreshed and energized. [More]

Implications - With parents looking to spend more time with their children, toy brands look for ways to appeal to both children and adults alike to foster bonding through joint interest. Taking an artistic approach to toy design, brands are producing eye-catching games that double as collectible décor, enticing parents to splurge a little more on a toy that also doubles as an aesthetic element to their home. [More]

Implications - Using virtual, emotional and tactile cues, children’s narratives are leaping out of the 2D page and engaging young readers in completely new ways. New parents keen to develop the emotional intelligence of their offspring through sensorial experience, are finding innovative formats to engage short attention spans, spark curiosity and promote intellectual development. [More]

Implications - As creatively inclined robotics become more commonplace, they are being utilized to take on challenges in manufacturing across industries to produce feats in construction, fashion and more. Able to work with tricky materials and adapt to different demands and conditions, emerging robot technology is increasingly relied upon as a resourceful production asset that also acts as a draw for consumers looking for uniquely manufactured products. [More]