As Earth Day 2024 approaches, the interior design industry finds itself at a critical juncture, balancing aesthetics with environmental responsibility. In recent years, heightened awareness of climate change and plastic pollution has spurred a paradigm shift.

In recent decades, the AEC industry has been focused on sustainable design and minimizing adverse environmental impacts. Until recently, there has been much less awareness around the social sustainability of these materials and whether they are ethically sourced and forced-labor-free. Check out this month's Wire for an in-depth look into the movement to eliminate forced labor in the building materials supply chain.

In the ever-evolving landscape of urban development, the transformation of office buildings into residential spaces has emerged as a compelling trend reshaping the fabric of cities. Check out this month's Wire where we dive into some notable examples both near and far.

As the global workforce gradually transitions back to physical offices after a prolonged period of remote work, the dynamics of the workplace have undergone a profound shift - but the transformation isn't over yet!

Environmental graphics has been a popular concept in the design industry for many years, and will continue to play an integral role in creating an environment that helps patients feel calm, relaxed, and positive. Check out this month's Wire to read more about how environmental graphics can improve a patient's overall health and well-being.

As the interior design industry shifts its focus toward becoming more equitable, diverse, and inclusive, partnering with organizations such as ArtLifting can play a pivotal role.

Across the globe, hospitality designers are leaning into maximalism in a major way. This rising trend in hospitality design showcases that "more is more" is the mantra of many of today's most captivating hotels and restaurants.

As the design world continues to evolve and push boundaries, landscape design is witnessing a profound transformation, marked by an unwavering commitment to sustainability. These trends serve as inspiring examples for those seeking to create landscapes that are not just beautiful but also sustainable, resilient, and transformative.

Concern about 'forever chemicals' is prompting efforts to reduce human exposure to PFAS. By educating ourselves, requesting and reviewing ingredient disclosures, and developing safer alternatives to PFAS, we can harness our power as designers to create healthier environments for our clients. Learn more about PFAS in this month's issue of the Wire!

NeoCon 2023 marked another year of introductory products and showcased trends to what the future might hold in the furniture design world. Check out the latest issue of the IIDA NE Wire to get a recap on what was new and exciting in Chicago this year.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the crucial role that schools play in the overall wellbeing of students. The design of educational spaces has a profound impact on the physical, mental, and emotional health of students, as well as their academic performance. Check out this month's Wire to read about how schools must prioritize wellbeing in their design principles to promote holistic development and create optimal learning environments.

From Killington to Jay Peak to Stowe Mountain, Vermont attracts many ski and winter sports enthusiasts during the winter months. However, what becomes of these resorts in the off season and how do the changing seasons impact the general tourism in these areas?

Ever-changing standards and guidelines for material selection can make the process of finding healthy, sustainable products a bit overwhelming. HPD’s? Red-List Free? Mindful Materials? Check out the latest issue of the Wire where we examine a few commonly used terms, and how they relate to selecting the right materials for your projects.

Material Bank’s sampling process supports more sustainable practices and helps mitigate the industry’s environmental impact. Check out this month's issue of the Wire to read more about Material Bank and how they help designers source the material samples they need by bringing technology and ease to the sampling process.

The concept of Transit Oriented Development dates back to the late 1980s, and has become a pillar of modern planning. Since then, the concept has quickly spread and can be seen all across the US. Check out this month's issue of the Wire to read more about the history of these walkable communities.

As businesses continue to evolve, so too do the trends in office ancillary furniture. One of the biggest trends in office design is the incorporation of flexible work spaces in order to provide a more comfortable, inviting workplace.

Connecticut may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about art, but this small state sure does pack a punch when it comes to public art in the form of murals.

As we ‘emerge’ and embrace a season full of events after a long hiatus (which shall remain nameless), it is exciting to be in-person again, with our design family, dressing up with a new appreciation for what we have - good health, good friends and an industry we love.