Mindful Living is finding the balance between design intuition and analytical thinking to achieve meaningful experiences. 

From physical to digital, materials and their properties play a central role in the multi-sensory space. As we embrace technological advancements and invest in new design approaches, the boundaries between virtual and ‘reality’ continue to blur. But what does this mean for the built environment? 

Mindful Living celebrates progress and innovation in design for interiors and architecture, as we adapt to our ever-changing world. Conversations around man versus machine continue as we search for new ideas. Digital and human intelligence are key, exploring the benefits of each to provide progressive solutions. Whether the focus is on machine learning for industry research, digital platforms becoming independent designers, or simply the virtual world driving new aesthetics, one thing is clear, our material world is evolving.   

The theme for 2024 focuses on the ambition to design well while doing good – with a conscious effort to protect our planet by aiming for zero waste manufacturing and sustainable alternatives. The natural world remains a key influence on the design industry, inspiring new techniques and processes as well as offering a wealth of material substitutes.  

Aiming to live harmoniously, the 2024 Surface Spotlight Live shines a light on cutting-edge surfaces, finishes and processes that embrace the future and harness the vital role materials play on design across all dimensions. 

“The theme for 2024 focuses on the ambition to design well while doing good – with a conscious effort to protect our planet by aiming for zero waste manufactures and sustainable alternatives. The natural world remains a key influence on the design industry, inspiring new techniques and processes, as well as offering a wealth of material substitutes”.

-Nickie West – Director, Surface Design Show

"We are at such a turning point with technological advancements where we are trying to gain a deeper understanding of how these innovations can benefit us today as well as in the future. Since the pandemic we have become more in tune with our innate need for emotional connections. This means we seek to embrace new ideas but at the same time appreciate the value of human interactions. The effect of this on our aesthetic world is also significant, and the way we experience physical and digital spaces is a key research topic for the design industry”. 

-Sally Angharad – Material, Design & Trend Expert