Design Tips for a Post-Pandemic World

We all know the importance of design in everyday life and how spaces define the way we live. This months blog post is going to be about the current COVID-19 virus and how it has and is going to influence designing spaces in the future.

“Recognising the need is the primary condition for design” - Charles Eames

As we recognise the current need to re-evaluate design at this juncture, we’d like to share some tips on how we can contribute as interior designers by tweaking certain aspects of design.

Smart Planning & Design

If virtual working is successful in the coming years, it will change the fundamental proposition of a common work space which will entail planning specific dedicated WFH spaces for increased efficiency. Public spaces too can be designed in such a way to make one think of it as their own, rather than public property, which will automatically increase a sense of cleanliness.

PS Tip: Create little nooks or corners that act as mud rooms in public, semi-public and private spaces. An area where people can keep their shoes or outerwear, ensuring the rest of the spaces stay clean. 

Material Selection

Materiality, an aspect of interior design that contributes to the very essence of it should be chosen more conscientiously. Responding to the current pandemic and for the future, spaces must be designed in a more hygienic way, public spaces in particular. Materials that are anti-bacterial, easy-to-clean, sustainable and free from joints, could be used as much as possible such as epoxy, cork and seamless bamboo.

PS Tip: Copper and its alloys brass and bronze can be used for frequently touched surfaces (door knobs, handles, buttons and taps) as viruses don’t last as long on these surfaces in comparison to other materials.

Setting the right mood

On the other hand the focus of materials in private spaces should be concentrated more on creating an environment that is clean but also one that uses the right colours and textures to uplift the mood of the user, considering the sheer amount of time that will be spent WFH.

PS Tip: We suggest colours, textures and prints that mimic nature. Neutrals plus cool colours that can produce a calming effect, coupled with some spaces rendered in warm (bright and pastel) hues that are uplifting and have a cheerful effect.

Utilising natural elements

The amount of natural light and ventilation received also assists in keeping your environment sterile. We as designers should allow for a maximum amount of these natural elements to percolate through. Consequently, working with ones surrounding context and respecting the climatic conditions (more so since we live in a tropical country), is essential. 

PS Tip: Allow a surge of sunlit rays through your spaces, avoid the aircon as much as possible and stay sun-kissed!

Buying local

This time spent in lockdown has forced the world to de-globalise itself and has got us all thinking about how we can depend upon local craftsmen, and in turn support our economy and be self-sufficient. 

PS Tip: Check out @theindiadesignfund for beautiful and locally crafted pieces, curated by leading names of the industry in order to support migrant workers and craftsmen, the backbone of our field.

Safe interaction

When we gradually start gathering at public spaces again (whenever that is), a ‘no contact policy’ must be enabled; the concept of automation, technology and no touch surfaces, will ensure a more safe environment. Some areas where this can be used: automated doors, or public restrooms with no doors, voice activated elevator controls, cellphone controlled automation, handsfree light switches and temperature controls.

The ergonomics and standards will have to be re-looked at as well to ensure that one has a larger personal bubble in high density spaces such as restaurants, cafes, offices, and malls.

PS Tip: Opt for restaurants with a strict no contact policy! :)

Whilst social distancing might seem to be the new normal (which will hopefully be a temporary phenomenon), this situation, though, will certainly encourage us to design keeping all the above points in mind. 

We hope this helps! Stay safe.