The Future of Textile Design for Contract Interiors

As professional product designers, we are always on the lookout for the latest advancements in the world of textile design for contract interiors.

With the rapid pace of innovation and technology, we can expect to see some ground-breaking developments in the coming years.

This blog post will explore the potential advancements in textile design for contract interiors, focusing on new materials, production techniques, and design trends that manufacturers should be aware of.

New Materials: Sustainable and High-Performance Textiles

One of the most significant trends in the future of textile design is the increased focus on sustainability and eco-friendly materials.

As the textile industry continues to evolve, innovations in textile technology are enabling the development of more sustainable, functional, and versatile materials, ultimately transforming the way we manufacture, wear, and interact with textiles in our daily lives. Read more in Threads of the Future

As environmental concerns continue to grow, designers and manufacturers are seeking ways to minimise their ecological footprint. This has led to the development of new materials that are both sustainable and high-performance.

For instance, we can expect to see a rise in the use of recycled and biodegradable materials in textile production. These materials not only help reduce waste but also contribute to a circular economy by being repurposed at the end of their life cycle.

Did you know that many of FibreGuard's new collections feature easy clean upholstery containing polyester that’s certified under the Global Recycled Standard? This is a transparent way of proving to our customers that any claims made about the recycled content of our fabrics are true and can be easily checked. The end-to-end traceability and transparency offered by the GRS is such an important step in taking responsible design further. Learn more about the GRS here.

In addition to sustainability, there is also a growing demand for high-performance contract textiles that are long-lasting as a response against the throwaway culture that has been on the rise in recent decades.

Yes, this trend was largely seen in the fashion and consumable goods industry, but the contract fabrics market didn't escape it either.

Buy once and buy better. Investing in a solid product with proven durability and cleanability certifications will empower you to decorate your home with materials that stay fresh, last longer and are always easy to maintain. This goes for upholstery and drapery as well as all surfaces of your home from counter tops to floors to light fittings, and beyond.

Our fabrics are proven by extensive testing to be durable, easy to clean, soft to the touch and colourfast. Recently, we have been introducing FibreGuard Outdoor and FibreGuard Pro, with anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties.

Production Techniques: Digital Printed Textiles and 3D Weaving

Another area of potential advancement in textile design for contract interiors especially is the development of new production techniques. Digitally printed textiles and 3D weaving are two promising technologies that could revolutionise the way we create textiles.

Digital printing allows for greater design flexibility, as it enables designers to create intricate patterns and vibrant colours without the limitations of traditional screen-printing methods. This technology also has the potential to reduce waste, as it allows for precise printing and eliminates the need for excess fabric.

Read all about 3D printing and textiles in our blog post: 3D Printed Textiles: The Future of Fabric Innovation?

3D weaving is another innovative technique that could change the way we think about textile production. This method involves weaving textiles in three dimensions, creating unique textures and structures that would be impossible to achieve using traditional methods.

3D weaving not only allows for greater design possibilities but also has the potential to improve the functionality and performance of textiles.

Design Trends: Biophilic Design and Fabrics Customisation

In terms of design trends, we can expect to see a continued emphasis on biophilic design and enhanced customisation in textile design for contract interiors.

Biophilic design is an approach that seeks to incorporate elements of nature into the built environment, promoting a sense of well-being and connection to the natural world. This can be achieved using organic patterns, natural materials, and colours inspired by nature. As the benefits of biophilic design become more widely recognised, we can expect to see an increase in the demand for textiles that embody this design philosophy.

Customisation is another significant trend in textile design, as clients increasingly seek unique and personalised solutions for their contract interior projects.

Custom contract interiors are all about developing distinctive, custom colourways, patterns, and textures, allowing designers to create one-of-a-kind spaces that reflect the individual needs and preferences of their clients.

We're loving the fact that there is no longer a 'one size fits all' approach when it comes to interior design. Anything goes as we move towards eclectic, personality-led interiors which allow character and individuality to shine through. Mixing and matching is the name of the game, as we see designers 'borrow' from a variety of styles and eras to create memorable spaces that really stand out from the crowd. - read more about room styles full of personality in our blog post Three Things FibreGuard's social media audiences love the most

Keep feeding your passion for fabrics

As new technologies and materials are developed, design becomes more challenging and exciting. With the help of our blog posts and other resources, we hope you’ll learn something new about textile design that will inspire you to push your creative boundaries even further.

Textile designers will continue to be in demand as consumers continue to spend money on clothing and home goods that reflect their personal style or status.

If you're interested in learning more about how textiles can help shape our lives today and into the future, then explore our free fabrics academy.