In today’s world, sustainability is a major selling point for companies. Consumers are more environmentally conscious than ever, and businesses are eager to present themselves as eco-friendly. However, not all green claims are legitimate. Many companies engage in "greenwashing" — misleading consumers into believing their products or practices are more sustainable than they truly are. To avoid being duped by greenwashing, here are some key steps to take.

Hand sketching has long been a cornerstone of architectural and design practice, bridging creativity and technical understanding. Unlike polished renderings, hand sketches convey a sense of unfinished potential, inviting collaboration. Traditionally done on paper, hand sketching now thrives on digital platforms like the iPad, preserving artistry while introducing modern advantages.

As 2024 comes to a close, the interior design industry reflects on concepts and initiatives that defined this past year.

Creating public spaces that are accessible to everyone is central to the principles of universal design, yet achieving this goal remains a significant challenge. Universal design goes beyond simply adhering to accessibility standards like those mandated by the ADA; it involves designing spaces that are intuitive and usable for people of all abilities and ages. However, in many public spaces, full inclusivity is far from reality due to cost, design limitations, and a lack of awareness.

Playful learning is not just about having fun; it's a strategic, research-backed approach to education that enhances cognitive, emotional, and social development. By fostering curiosity, creativity, and collaboration, playful learning transforms traditional education into an engaging, meaningful experience that can benefit learners of all ages.

The increasing focus on environmental responsibility and sustainability in the design industry has driven manufacturers and product designers to develop recycled, eco-friendly products that reduce waste and promote healthier spaces. Check out some innovative products developed through this sustainable initiative in this issue of the Wire.

If you are looking to take an architecturally significant getaway, you don't have to look any further than right here in New England. Each state has something different to offer - from extravagant mansions, to modest shacks in the dunes, to homes built on private islands, and more!

NeoCon is always a great event and a fantastic chance to see what's new and exciting in the world of commercial design - and this year was no exception.

There are currently 29 states, DC and Puerto Rico, and all Canadian provinces that have some level of legislation in place relating to the regulation and recognition of the interior design profession. Recent legislative progress in Massachusetts represents a significant step toward recognizing the distinct and valuable contributions of interior designers within the construction industry. Check out this month's issue of the Wire to read more about this exciting news!

New Hampshire is a treasure trove of cultural attractions and rich history, but what makes New Hampshire really stand out is the presence of several iconic structures designed by legendary architects.

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.