The Surface Design Show 2024 features the latest trends in the world of design, and helps us gain valuable knowledge about cutting-edge surface design materials and surface solutions. It’s also an excellent opportunity to network with our trusted suppliers and gain insights into the latest trends and developments in surface design.

This year’s core theme was ‘Mindful Living’ and it focused on the ambition to design well while doing good, with a conscious effort to protect our planet by aiming for zero waste and embracing the vital role materials play in design. Exploring the balance between design intuition and analytical thinking to achieve progressive solutions, emphasising the influence of the natural world on the design industry and the use of material substitutes.

“The natural world remains a key influence on the design industry, inspiring new techniques and processes, as well as offering a wealth of material substitutes.”
Nickie West, Managing Director, Surface Design Show

In this article, we will explore KAI Interiors personal key takeaways:

Exhibitors showcased a commendable array of eco-friendly innovations, from recycled materials to energy-efficient designs. The conscientious approach to sustainability demonstrated a shared responsibility among designers for creating aesthetically pleasing surfaces with a minimal environmental impact.

Technology stole the show with smart materials, interactive surfaces, and digital wizardry taking centre stage. Attendees had the opportunity to experience surfaces like never before, with mind-blowing interactive elements that felt like something out of a sci-fi movie.

If you’ve been yearning for a breath of fresh air in interior design, look no further. The Surface Design Show was bursting with biophilic beauty. Think textured surfaces mimicking the great outdoors and organic materials bringing the outside in.

This embrace of biophilic principles not only enhanced visual aesthetics, but also reflected a thoughtful consideration for human well-being by bringing the serenity of nature into designed spaces. The show most definitely celebrated the enduring appeal of biophilic design.

Art found a voice in every nook and cranny of this year’s Surface Design Show From hand-painted tiles to avant-garde wall coverings, the show demonstrated how surfaces can be transformed into canvases for artistic expression. This fusion of art and design added a sophisticated layer to the overall ambiance, showcasing the capacity of surfaces to convey a narrative beyond mere functionality.

Collaboration was in the spotlight as architects, interior designers and artists joined forces to create interdisciplinary designs. The power of collaboration resulted in beautiful installations that seamlessly blended different design worlds. This cooperative spirit demonstrated the industry’s ability to break down silos and create truly holistic design experiences. Teamwork truly made the dream work. A good example of this is the ‘Interior Design declares’ pledge, which calls for a shift in our behaviour when working in the design and construction industry, meeting the needs of our society without breaching the earth’s ecological boundaries.

These highlights truly resonated with KAI Interior’s vision of creating unique spaces that are immersive, emotionally engaging and inspire human connection. As we reflect on our experience, it’s clear that the future of surface design is dynamic, innovative and filled with endless possibilities.

If you have a challenging interior design project you’re struggling to conceptualise and bring to life, do get in touch. We’re here to help you shape your design journey.