Last Friday, a virtual discussion titled The Future of Materiality: Exploring New Technologies, Ideas, and Inspiration for the Design Ecosystem brought together a panel of experts to explore the ways in which designers can rethink the use of materials in creating clean, safe interiors. Moderated by ThinkLabpresident Amanda Schneider, panelists included Yorgo Lykouria, founder and creative director, Rainlight; Suzanne Tick, founder, Suzanne Tick, Inc; Dr. Andrew Dent, EVP materials research, Material ConneXion; and Primo Orpilla, cofounder, Studio O+A.
Here are 5 key insights from the thought-provoking conversation:
There’s No Magic Formula
While mitigating the spread of the coronavirus is of top concern, the panelists agreed that there is not one cure-all material that is going to keep people safe. “The simple idea of anti-bacterial and anti-microbial isn’t always the best way. We need to use the technology where it’s most suitable,” Andrew Dent said. Widespread use of a material is, say, less effective than increased safety protocols such as washing hands and adopting new, healthy habits. Yorgo Lykouria agreed adding, “Antimicrobial finishes are not going to solve our problems, what is going to change our world is new behavior patterns and that begins with design.”
Don’t Abandon Beauty for Function
Performance driven solutions such as masks and plexiglass shields help keep people safe, but they also contribute to feelings of fear and anxiety. “The knee-jerk reaction is to create something that is coated and high performance but not beautiful or comforting to be around,” Suzanne Tick pointed out. The panelists agreed it’s important to make people feel safe, but that there is also room for beauty and fun. Primo Orpilla emphasized, “We don’t want to strip away what designers have built over the last several years in the workplace and make it this cleanable, clinical experience.”