The Importance of Innovative Design in the Furniture Industry
The furniture industry is one that has been around for many millennia. There are many traditions that have been used for generations and, consequently, many traditions that have been lost. Since the industrial revolution, as technology gave way to increased production, furniture has changed dramatically. Now, as the modern era and online retail change the industry yet again, it’s important for furniture manufacturers to push for new, innovative, and purposeful designs.
Nevertheless, the industry has been plagued by similarity and lack of ingenuity. Many companies are creating similar products, which leads to cheap products that are neither culturally relevant nor quality. In order to rectify the furniture industry for the future, and make products that push other companies to innovate, it’s important to find new designs and techniques that push the current boundaries.
Innovation From Previous Generations
Hundreds of years ago, before the full power of the industrial revolution, had impacted England, there was more diversity and care in the way that furniture was made. This led to items that lasted for years and, consequently, could be sold for a higher price. Victorian style, for example, was a prominent way of crafting furniture that led to unique, but still relevant, pieces.
But as new technology shaped the nation and led to our modern economy, mass production pushed furniture companies to look for cheaper materials and simpler shapes. And, due to the nature of economic competition, once one design statement worked it was quickly adapted by other businesses. This has all led to the overall suffering of the furniture industry. Fewer unique pieces meant fewer quality items and hence fewer options for consumers. While not everything had to change, there are many companies that could benefit from offering newer products that push design boundaries.
Improving Quality and Design
There are many ways to improve upon modern design elements. Taking inspiration from past eras can certainly yield new, intriguing results. There are also multiple cultures around the world that take different approaches to furniture creation. In addition, thinking about ways to maximize space when it comes to furniture, as well as increase functionality, can be a great way to produce designs.
‘New’ designs can also push companies to use more versatile and quality components. When these two aspects work in tandem, they help create products that drive consumers to purchase and which can last for years. While producing these items can, at first, be more expensive, it pushes the industry as a whole to evolve and produce better pieces.
The Final Word
In essence, innovative design in the furniture industry can lead to more successful and individualized products. This will push companies in the furniture space to compete for more for their consumers which, as is the key to economic growth, will drive a change in the product. While the future of furniture and other industries remains unknown, the present market can and should be altered to better fit the needs of consumers.
As mentioned above, there were years when furniture was crafted with care and by dedicated workers. While it would be a stretch to suggest that businesses move to a less complex model of production, it might be possible to optimize models to produce more stylized products. With this approach, similar to how companies make items with patented changes, businesses can build their brands to produce more ergonomic and stylish furniture to satisfy customer needs and build brand loyalty, all while not compromising the quality of their products.
In a time where working from home is more common than before, it is reasonable to expect that customized pieces of furniture will be more attractive to audiences to satisfy their needs, both in functionality and also in terms of design. Overall, businesses will gain a better reputation, customers will be more satisfied, and the industry can then prosper.