The discussion revolved around bridging the gap between design fads and long-term value, with a shared focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and technological integration. The panel highlighted how an industry often associated with exclusivity can evolve to serve diverse socio-economic segments without compromising on creativity or quality.
The session “What’s Trending: Balancing Design Fads with Tech for Lasting Impact” was moderated by Nisha JamVwal (Luxury Brand Consultant, Interiors Architect Designer, Art Consultant, Columnist & Author, Partner, Nisha Jamvwal Design) with a panel comprising Clyde Crasto (Proprietor, White Paper Designs & National Spokesperson/Secretary NCP-SP), Reema Diwan (Vice President – Design and Technical Services, Accor), and Priya Daniel (Principal Architect, Five Scale Design).
One of the primary themes was balancing design fads with enduring appeal. The speakers cautioned against chasing fleeting visual trends such as overly ornate finishes or short-lived color palettes that may look impressive in the present but fail to remain relevant over time. Instead, the emphasis was on adopting timeless design principles that age gracefully. These include neutral foundations, modular adaptability, and functionality-driven layouts. By doing so, spaces can retain value and relevance for years, benefiting both high-end clients and communities with limited resources.
Technology emerged as a crucial tool in achieving this balance. The panel underlined the potential of AI-driven adaptive design, where systems can evolve in response to user needs. This means a home or workspace could transform over time without requiring major renovations, catering equally to a growing family, a start-up office, or community facilities. Such adaptability reduces waste, minimizes cost burdens, and ensures continued usability.
Another important aspect of the conversation was making good design accessible for the underprivileged and the younger generation. The panelists discussed initiatives that encourage affordable housing projects to incorporate thoughtful planning and quality materials. Here, technology such as digital twins and IoT-enabled systems was seen as a game-changer. These tools allow architects and planners to simulate environments before they’re built, ensuring every square foot is optimized for comfort, safety, and energy efficiency. When combined with sustainable, low-cost construction techniques, they can significantly raise living standards without pushing up prices.
The role of client-centric trends was also addressed. While design inevitably responds to lifestyle shifts such as the rise in wellness-focused spaces post-COVID—the panelists warned against allowing trends to dominate decision-making. Instead, the approach should be evidence-based: gathering data on usage patterns, climate adaptability, and maintenance costs to inform long-term design strategies. For example, minimalism can be enhanced with integrated smart features, allowing even compact homes to offer functionality that supports modern life.
Cultural context was another thread woven throughout the discussion. The speakers advocated for infusing designs with regional or historical motifs, even when working with contemporary styles. This not only grounds projects in local identity but also creates an emotional connection between people and their spaces. When layered with sustainable technologies—like passive cooling, solar integration, and rainwater harvesting—such culturally inspired spaces can achieve both emotional and environmental longevity.
The session concluded that lasting impact comes from an intelligent blend of tradition, technology, and thoughtful design. By avoiding the temptation to follow every passing fad, and instead investing in solutions that adapt over time, designers can create spaces that remain functional, beautiful, and socially relevant for decades. More importantly, by making these approaches affordable and scalable, the design industry can contribute meaningfully to social equity ensuring that quality living environments are not a privilege, but a standard.
This vision demands collaboration between architects, policymakers, technology providers, and communities. As the discussion revealed, it is not enough to design for the present; the responsibility lies in shaping spaces that serve future generations while honoring cultural roots and embracing innovation.
