Innovative materials in furniture design: the future or a temporary trend
Content:
The appearance of furniture made human life more comfortable, brought beauty, orderliness and aesthetics into it. But if at the inception stage primitive production technologies were used, today they have become more developed.
People place more demands on the interior. It must be original, ergonomic, full of fresh design ideas. Therefore, trends in furniture production are forced to adapt to these requirements.
Let's talk more about these trends. So, we are talking about technical equipment. Every year it becomes richer. If earlier even the backlight seemed something outstanding, today technology has stepped forward. For example, the angle of the back of the sofa can be controlled using a remote control. And beds that collect information about the quality of sleep have long ceased to be a curiosity. That is, interior items are integrated into the smart home system.
Another new trend is environmental friendliness. Safety, non-toxicity, recyclable raw materials - this is more important than ever today.
Modern designers offer such an original storage system as a radius cabinet. They are compact, elegant, have a smooth, streamlined shape, and at the same time contain everything you need.
Modular and transformable systems are relevant. For example, the tabletop can be used as a seating area, and the bed can be easily hidden in a closet. Modular sofas are relevant for rooms of different sizes due to their variable sizes.
Transformable furniture is suitable for small apartments and children's rooms. Its ability to act in several roles at once makes it indispensable for spaces where it is necessary to combine several functions at once, since it is impossible to place many items at the same time. Transformers save space and make the interior functional.
Modern materials
We have already said that the trend is aimed at environmental friendliness. First of all, this concerns materials. Within this trend, two have emerged: the use of natural and artificial raw materials, which can be recycled. Of the first, the leaders are rattan, bamboo, and organic fabrics. They do not have a negative impact on the environment and offer wide design possibilities.
Manufacturers also use recycled and recyclable raw materials.
In addition to safety and non-toxicity, the material should be easy to care for, lightweight, strong and durable, be able to implement different design styles, and also be inexpensive.
Eco-friendly materials meet these requirements. Instead of genuine leather, artificial leather is used. It is cheaper and does not require complex care, and its appearance is not inferior to the real thing.
This also applies to fabrics. Natural silk, for example, is used less frequently, since its synthetic counterparts are more durable and less demanding to care for.
The natural wood frame is replaced with MDF and chipboard. They are not just similar in characteristics, but also superior. At the same time, colors and surface designs can be varied. Glass has been replaced by acrylic, and forged steel is often replaced by aluminum.
At the same time, such finishing is no longer considered a sign of cheapness; it is used even in the premium segment. Its main task is to make the product lighter and more practical.
PVC has appeared in all areas, including furniture. Its peculiarity lies in its ability to imitate other materials. In addition, it is practical, not afraid of moisture, and has high thermal insulation. And ease of care and durability make it more popular.
OSB boards have also proven themselves. Thanks to their resistance to temperature and humidity changes, they are suitable even for unheated rooms.
The filler is synthetic down, lightweight, non-toxic and hypoallergenic. You can also find air filling.
There is another trend – waste-free production. The production cycle is adjusted in such a way as to reduce the amount of waste to zero, as well as reduce the amount of resources consumed. Raw materials processing and restorative technologies help with this.
Environmental friendliness also affects the issue of packaging. Manufacturers are trying to minimize its volume, but make it recyclable so as not to harm the environment.
Current solutions
Innovations in furniture design enhance the comfort and functionality of furnishings. The products look attractive, but are also practical.
Let's take a closer look at these innovations:
- “Smart home”. The system controls the home environment via a remote control, smartphone or voice. A person can adjust the lighting level, table height, and configure other functions;
- built-in charging. Manufacturers are building a USB port or wireless charging into furniture so that you don’t have to leave the couch to charge your phone or tablet;
- solar technologies. Energy saving is being introduced into all areas of life, including furniture production. The presence of a built-in solar panel allows you to solve the issue of energy saving and expand the functionality of interior items;
- modular solutions. Allows you to adjust the design of the space to the needs of the owner. One and the same thing can perform several functions at once;
- ergonomics. Furniture is designed to be functional and comfortable. Back support on chairs and armchairs, the ability to adjust rigidity, built-in massage systems and other new products provide user comfort and help improve health;
- expanding horizons in design. With the development of the furniture industry, the advent of unique techniques and new raw materials (bioplastic, carbon fiber), it became possible to create unusual shapes and add functions. Designers received ample opportunities to implement their own ideas.
Innovations in the furniture industry are aimed at practicality, environmental friendliness, and functionality. And at the same time, they help to increase a person’s comfort and make rest as complete and comfortable as possible.
