October 25, 2023
Commercial Design Trends – Fall 2023
The world of design is always on the move, and the commercial sector is no exception. It is important to incorporate the latest trends into a classic, timeless design that will stand the test of time. As we soon say goodbye to 2023 and welcome 2024, Samantha Butcher, Senior Interior Designer at Arium AE, shares some of the top design trends to watch.
TILE TRENDS
The two most common types of tile are ceramic and porcelain; both can be used to cover floors, walls, and countertops, with a water absorption rate of less than 0.5 percent. The main difference between the two is how they are made; both ceramic and porcelain are made from a clay mixture fired in a kiln. Porcelain tile is made from more refined clay and is fired at higher temperatures, making it denser and more durable than ceramic. It also makes porcelain more expensive than ceramic (generally) and is one of the reasons why it is more commonly used in commercial applications. Because it is denser and more durable, porcelain can withstand continuous traffic and increased wear and tear. Additionally, porcelain tiles are incredibly easy to clean and maintain and are moisture resistant, making them perfect for entry areas, restrooms, locker rooms, kitchens, and pool areas. Another added benefit is that porcelain tile does not need to be finished or sealed and requires no special cleaners or tools to keep its appearance.
Even though tile dates back to 1000 B.C., that doesn’t mean it is outdated; quite the contrary. Manufacturers constantly introduce new colors, patterns, and sizes to stay current. Here are the tile trends we have seen in 2023 and expect to continue seeing in 2024.
Vertical Subway Tile
While subway tiles have been popular, the new trend is to run the tile vertically. This can make the space look taller by drawing the eye upward.
Large-format Terrazzo
Terrazzo has gone in and out of style for many years, but in 2023, it is back “in.” The current terrazzo trend is large-format tile with minimal grout lines.
Floral Tile
Floral tiles with large patterns are making a statement on the wall and in the design world. These graphic tiles are becoming very popular, especially those in blue and green colorways.
Patterned Tile
Patterns in tile have been popular for a while, and this trend will continue through 2024. Moroccan-inspired designs and colors are especially trendy this year.
CURVE TRENDS
Curves in architecture have been around since the Middle Ages when they were used to create grand, ornate buildings like churches and castles. They reflected the wealth and power of those who built them. Since then, curves have been used to evoke a sense of glamour, sophistication, and opulence, from the Palace of Versailles during the Baroque period to the Chrysler Building of the 1930s Art Deco movement to the Burj Al Arab Hotel completed in 1999. Curves came back into fashion during the 60s and 70s as part of the mid-century modern movement and continued their popularity through the 80s when organic shapes and forms were popular. Now, in 2023, curves are being reimagined for the 21st century.
While curves have practical benefits, like distributing weight and stress more evenly, they are aesthetically pleasing. Curves are playful and fun; they reflect our desire for a soft, safe, cozy, and happy environment. A curved line can go a long way in offsetting rectangular rooms and add architectural interest, giving the idea of a more custom design. Arcs and curves can also help evoke different feelings for those within the space, including relaxation, peace, calm, flow, and unity. Curves are friendly and inviting and tend to spur interaction between people.
Curves are not just limited to a building’s exterior. Curved lines can be incorporated into the interior through a number of elements, architecture, lighting, furniture, or decorative elements like wallpaper. All of these will add a break from the expected “box” and provide an element of art to the space.
Arches in Architecture
One of the most common places to see arches in architecture is doorways and windows. At their best, they add a sense of grandeur to these features while, at the least, creating a focal point for the room by providing the eye with a break from flat, linear walls.
Curved Lighting
Curved lighting is so much more than just an arc floor lamp. In today’s design world, curved lighting can range from a gentle sloping shade, an ornately curved metal stem, or curvatures in ceiling-mounted fixtures.
Rounded Furnishings
When we hear “curved sofa,” some immediately think of pastel rounded sofas or rattan swivel chairs in large botanical print from the 1980s. Still, today’s rounded furniture provides soft, gentle curves that complement the straight-lined pieces of architecture they are often paired with.
Arium AE offers a full-service, integrated design practice that balances sophisticated design and functional solutions. Our collaborative studio brings together 38 architects, interior designers, electrical and mechanical engineers, planners, and green professionals. We’d love to hear about your next project; contact us at info@ariumae.com.