The annual Interior Design Show is the place to be for designers, brands, and lovers of beautiful things to come together and experience the latest trends in interior design and beyond. Exhibitors of all sizes and disciplines showcase their latest developments. The eclectic combination of everything from furniture and textiles to 3D printed ceramics highlights the far reach of the design world.

While the show takes place in downtown Toronto, it hosts products and brands from around the world, blurring the lines between ‘here’ and ‘there’. Products like pottery from India, using traditional materials and techniques, and stone sourced exclusively from Italy and Spain show how an eclectic approach to design can create a harmonious environment. Even incorporating tropical plants, textured textiles, and bright colours can be attributed to an increasing appreciation for international influences. As the world becomes increasingly connected, and our experiences less defined by our geography, our spaces reflect the richness of this growing global culture.

One of the most prevalent trends at this year’s show was a return to natural materials, specifically Canadian wood. Raw and unfished pine, cedar, and maple, as well as particleboard, and live edge pieces were central to many of this year’s exhibits. Their striped down quality highlights the story behind the material, giving it an emotionally charged quality. Unfinished wood also has a distinct scent, creating an almost immersive experience that connects us to the landscape where these products come from. As the design industry continues to focus on sustainability and wellness, this minimalist approach to incorporating nature makes this trend one of the strongest movements in the design industry.

The Interior Design Show always showcases the latest developments in technology for interior environments. This year there was a strong focus on user-centered technology like app controlled coloured lights and opacity changing glass. Their programmable nature allows users to create unique scenes that completely customize their environment. The success of immersive art and exhibits worldwide has pushed the design world to increase the scale and capability of interior technology. Large LED screens displaying lifelike scenes can be mounted on virtually any surface, allowing users to create their own immersive gallery experience. The user-friendly nature of these experiences makes creating complex and dynamic environments more accessible to everyday users.

Trends can feel like cause and effect. The increasing use of bright, saturated colours used monochromatically throughout a space feels like a counter movement to the pastels and achromatic palettes of previous years. Elements like statement walls painted in a vibrant hue, or a richly coloured piece of statement furniture can add an element of confidence and personality to a space. While soft pastels and creamy palettes are still very popular, dramatic colour is one of this year’s biggest new trends.

As designers, we have a responsibility to the people who use our spaces, their communities, and the environment. Some of the most prominent narratives at the IDS were many social issues facing Toronto and the global design world. Conceptual projects that address issues like the housing crisis, ageing in place, and the climate crisis were some of the most powerful displays at this year’s IDS. These exhibitors remind us how impactful our work can be, and, because of this, that we have a responsibility to more than our clients. These projects go beyond current trends to unite us through our shared humanity.