Library Thoughts Week of 2/24/2025

1. Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Designing spaces that minimize environmental footprints is a top priority. This includes using eco-friendly materials, enhancing energy efficiency, and creating healthier indoor environments. During recent congressional testimony, industry experts were asked what's the percentage of carbon in the Atmosphere. Experts guessed 5, 6 and 8%. As of 2024, the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in Earth's atmosphere reached approximately 426.91 parts per million (ppm) or 0.0427% of the atmosphere. 

2. Flexibility and Adaptability

The shift towards hybrid and remote work models has increased the demand for adaptable office spaces. Designers are incorporating modular furniture and private pods to accommodate various work styles and preferences. The rise of office pods, for example, reflects this trend, providing employees with private areas for calls and focused work. On the other side of in-office workspaces comes "Virtual Businesses".  A great Atlanta example is MurphyMeyers founding partners' Lindsay and Jeannette. As a powerful Women Owned Business with decades of experience in corporate commercial design, these ladies continue to create, expand and deliver services to Atlanta and beyond without a primary office. Virtual Businesses offer clients numerous benefits including ...

3. Technological Integration

Integrating advanced technologies into commercial spaces is essential. This includes smart building systems, interactive displays, and collaborative tools that enhance productivity and user experience. Keeping up with technological advancements is crucial for firms to remain competitive and meet client expectations. Similar technology can be created and implemented for your design firm library. ADL Workshop (WOB) for example, offers "library contract" services managing libraries in person and virtually to meet interior designer needs while enhancing designer productivity.  

4. Health and Well-being

There's a heightened emphasis on creating spaces that promote health and well-being. Designers are focusing on improving indoor air quality, incorporating biophilic elements, and ensuring spaces are conducive to mental and physical health. This approach aligns with the broader trend of designing "welcoming and healing" environments. While designs have met these challenges, client budgets don't always align. Senior Designers have to navigate great design with budgets on a daily basis and training your design team to balance these two elements can make the difference in profitability.

5. Cost Management and Profitability

Balancing creativity with commercial viability remains a concern. Adapting to market conditions and managing resources effectively are vital for sustaining business operations.

By addressing these concerns, commercial interior design firms will have to balance design, budget and environment to create spaces that are functional, sustainable, and aligned with the evolving needs of businesses and their employees.

Design firms can prepare by training designers, leveraging independent contractors, reduce wasteful habits, and lean on your product sales reps.