Sudden lifestyle changes driven by the ongoing pandemic forced many to become well aware that the space they inhabit directly influences their well-being. Living and working spaces have adapted accordingly, incorporating features that promote calmness, health and sensitivity through innovation. Recognizing these new priorities, this year’s ICONIC AWARDS: Innovative Interior honoured the most important international design innovations, focusing on products that have special relevance in the context of the pandemic. The German Design Council’s prestigious award is regarded as the trend barometer of the interior design industry, showcasing outstanding appliances and furnishings that respond to four current concepts: Smart together, Less is more, Homo movens, and Material innovation.
Responding to physical health needs, the first trend addresses the growing demand for smart technologies in the design of sanitary products. Whether through apps, sensors, electronic services or internet-based programmes, these are crucial in enabling social interaction while minimizing infection risks. On an aesthetic level, the minimalistic, 'less is more' design trend has continued to gain ground. Products have shown a reduction to the essential, giving way to a new simplicity with muted colours and discreet material surfaces.
