As we move through the final months of 2024, interior architecture is undergoing dynamic transformations, blending functionality with modern aesthetics for both commercial and residential spaces. Whether you’re redesigning a café, gym, office, or home, staying up-to-date with the latest trends is essential to create environments that are not only visually appealing but also practical for contemporary needs.

This blog will explore the top interior architect design trends for commercial and residential spaces in 2024 that have shaped the year. These trends cater to diverse sectors, helping businesses and homeowners make informed design choices that reflect the best of what modern architecture offers.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design

Sustainability continues to dominate interior design trends in 2024. As environmental concerns grow, both commercial and residential spaces are increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials and design practices. From using recycled materials to sourcing local and sustainable products, green design is not only a responsible choice but also a significant trend.

For Commercial Spaces:

Cafés and gyms can benefit from incorporating energy-efficient lighting, repurposed furniture, and green building materials. Recycled wood, sustainable fabrics, and low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints are becoming essential choices in commercial interior design, appealing to the eco-conscious consumer.

For Residential Spaces:

Homeowners are moving toward eco-friendly choices like bamboo flooring, energy-efficient windows, and solar-powered appliances. The shift towards biophilic design, which emphasizes the integration of nature indoors, is also gaining popularity. Natural materials such as stone, wood, and live plants create a calming, organic feel in homes.

Multifunctional Spaces

As people demand more versatility in both their living and working environments, the trend of multifunctional spaces is gaining momentum. In 2024, interior architects are focusing on creating areas that can serve multiple purposes without sacrificing style or comfort.

For Commercial Spaces:

In gyms and office spaces, flexible areas designed to accommodate different activities—such as workstations, exercise zones, or relaxation corners—are becoming popular. Cafés, on the other hand, are doubling as coworking spaces, offering multifunctional seating arrangements that cater to both customers and remote workers.

For Residential Spaces:

Home offices, guest rooms that also serve as fitness areas, and adaptable living spaces are being prioritized in residential designs. Open-concept homes are continuing to trend, but with more attention to how each zone within an open space can be used for multiple purposes.

Smart Technology Integration

Technology is playing an increasingly integral role in interior design. From smart lighting systems to voice-activated controls, technology is shaping how we interact with spaces.

For Commercial Spaces:

In offices, gyms, and cafés, smart tech is being used to enhance the customer experience and improve efficiency. For instance, gyms can integrate automated lighting and climate control systems that adjust based on occupancy. Similarly, cafés are adopting mobile app-based ordering systems, automated lighting, and sound systems that create the right atmosphere depending on the time of day.

For Residential Spaces:

Homes in 2024 are getting smarter with technology like voice-activated lighting, smart thermostats, and home security systems. Interior architects are incorporating tech in a way that doesn’t interfere with the aesthetics of the space but enhances its functionality and user experience.

Biophilic Design and Natural Elements

The biophilic design trend, which focuses on bringing nature into interior spaces, continues to grow in 2024. It goes beyond simply adding plants to a room—this design philosophy aims to foster a deeper connection with nature through the use of natural materials, organic shapes, and natural light.

For Commercial Spaces:

Businesses are incorporating indoor plants, green walls, and natural materials like wood and stone to create more welcoming, stress-relieving environments. This trend is particularly popular in offices and cafés, where companies are looking to create comfortable spaces for employees and customers.

For Residential Spaces:

Biophilic design in homes is not limited to plants; it includes maximizing natural light, incorporating water features, and choosing materials that mimic nature. Think stone countertops, wood furniture, and earth-toned color schemes.

Bold Colors and Textures

While minimalism still has its place, 2024 is seeing a shift toward bolder color choices and textures. People are becoming more adventurous in how they use color to express personality and create a mood within their spaces.

For Commercial Spaces:

In cafés, restaurants, and retail spaces, bold colors and striking patterns are being used to attract attention and enhance branding. Accent walls in deep shades like forest green, navy blue, or burnt orange can make a dramatic statement. Texture also plays a role, with layered materials such as velvet seating, textured wallpaper, and mixed metals.

For Residential Spaces:

Homes are getting more colorful too, with accent walls, bold-colored furniture, and vibrant décor pieces. Textured fabrics like boucle, linen, and velvet are becoming popular choices for upholstery and cushions, adding depth and warmth to interiors.

Minimalist Meets Maximalist

Minimalism has long dominated design trends, but 2024 brings a fusion of minimalism and maximalism. This emerging trend strikes a balance by incorporating clean, streamlined aesthetics while allowing for bold, artistic touches that bring character to the space.

For Commercial Spaces:

In offices and retail environments, the minimalist-maximalist approach is seen through sleek, functional layouts with a few standout design elements, such as large-scale artwork or statement lighting. This approach keeps the space professional but injects it with a creative, memorable touch.

For Residential Spaces:

Homeowners are blending minimalist layouts with maximalist accents like statement rugs, bold furniture, or eye-catching art. This combination allows for personalization and vibrancy without overwhelming the space.

Curved Lines and Organic Shapes

Goodbye sharp edges, hello curves! Curved lines and organic shapes are making waves in 2024. This trend brings softness and fluidity to interiors, creating a welcoming and comforting environment.

For Commercial Spaces:

In cafés and gyms, curved lines in furniture, partitions, and lighting fixtures create a more inviting and relaxed atmosphere. This can be particularly useful in customer-centric environments like restaurants, where the flow of movement and comfort are paramount.

For Residential Spaces:

In homes, curved furniture pieces—whether it’s a sofa with rounded edges or an arched doorway—are becoming increasingly popular. Organic shapes help soften the appearance of a room and add an element of warmth and playfulness.

Vintage and Retro Aesthetics

Vintage and retro aesthetics continue to influence design in 2024. Whether it’s mid-century modern furniture or 1970s-inspired color schemes, the nostalgia for past eras is being reimagined in modern interiors.

For Commercial Spaces:

Cafés, bars, and boutiques are incorporating vintage décor to evoke a sense of nostalgia and individuality. Mid-century modern furniture, antique lighting fixtures, and retro color palettes can create unique, memorable spaces that stand out.

For Residential Spaces:

In homes, vintage pieces like retro light fixtures, patterned wallpaper, and reclaimed furniture add character and a sense of history to modern interiors. This trend is perfect for those looking to mix old with new.

Conclusion

The interior architect design trends for 2024 reflect the evolving needs of both commercial and residential spaces. From sustainability and smart technology to bold colors and biophilic design, the emphasis is on creating environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. Whether you’re designing a commercial café or a cozy home, staying on top of these trends will help you create spaces that are modern, efficient, and future-proof.

For businesses and homeowners looking to implement these trends, our team at Two Square is here to help. With expertise in creating bespoke commercial and residential interiors, we can transform your vision into reality, ensuring your space is both stylish and functional for years to come. Contact us today to learn how we can make your next project a success!