The contract world is increasingly establishing itself as a cutting-edge laboratory for experimenting with innovative materials, sustainable solutions and new design languages. It is not surprising, therefore, that the sector continues to grow: in Italy, according to the FederlegnoArredo Study Centre, it accounts for 30% of the total furniture turnover, exceeding 17 billion euro out of a total of around 52. It is therefore a sector for which demand is expanding, driven above all by sectors such as hotels, restaurants and food retail.
These numbers tell of a dynamic sector in which technology and sustainability are rewriting the rules of aesthetics and functionality of shared spaces. One of the most significant evolutions is the increasingly widespread integration of artificial intelligence and domotic systems, which enable hyper-personalised, efficient and energy-saving environments. At the same time, ecodesign is gaining centrality: materials with a low environmental impact, water- and energy-saving technologies and fair and inclusive solutions are becoming indispensable elements.
The contemporary design of shared spaces is also enriched by new material trends. The biophilic approach, for example, focuses on a deep connection with nature, integrating plants, organic materials and natural light to promote well-being and relaxation.
Warm minimalism, on the other hand, proposes essential yet cosy environments, thanks to the use of woods, natural fabrics and neutral tones. And again, vintage revisited takes iconic furnishings from the past, reinterpreting them in a contemporary key with rounded shapes, ironic citations and avant-garde materials.
For those seeking a broad vision but also vertical and in-depth contents, the appointment not to be missed is Host 2025, scheduled from 17 to 21 October at Fiera Milano. An international event that for years has been a reference point for technologies, formats and layouts dedicated to the world of hospitality, eating out, and food retail. Host confirms itself not only as a showcase for technological innovation, but also as a privileged observatory on design and planning trends: in 2025, the contract world will be the protagonist in the areas dedicated to Furnishing-Technology and Tableware.
Great expectations also for the seventh edition of Smart Label – Host Innovation Award, the award promoted by Fiera Milano and Host Milano in cooperation with POLI.design and under the patronage of ADI – Associazione per il Disegno Industriale (Industrial Design Association). An award that highlights the most innovative and sustainable solutions, capable of outlining new scenarios for the entire sector.
Completing the programme, the Design Talks, the meetings on the future of design organised with POLI.design and the patronage of NEWH – The Hospitality Industry Network, are also back, offering stimuli, visions and inspiration to designers, architects and industry operators.
