The rising population continues to put a strain on our natural resources, and for the moment, (visions of colonising Mars put aside) we are confined to the finite space that our planet has to offer. There is a growing need to accommodate the increasing concentration of people in major cities, such as Melbourne. We need to change the design and architecture of spaces in order to literally downsize our lifestyles as the population grows. With movements like tiny homes and minimalism gaining traction, living with less is both a practicality and a necessity.
Population Density, source: Flickr.com
Earlier in the year at their national conference, IKEA announced their collaboration with ORI, an American startup that specialises in making ‘robotic interiors’ that shift and re-configure to transform into different rooms or simply make the most of small spaces. The new ROGNAN range will be designed to be compatible with IKEA’s existing PLASTA range, and is scheduled for initial release in Hong Kong and Japan in 2020, cities that are notorious for their confined living spaces with population density.
ROGNAN Range, source: newsroom.inter.ikea.com
ORI currently offers a multipurpose closet and desk space and is scheduled to release a rising bed which lifts up to reveal a lounge. While expandable or multi-purpose pieces of furniture aren’t new, ORI offers a readily available suite that could be fitted to transform an entire home. The design is a game-changer for studio living, making it an easy and attractive solution. Their collaboration with a global furniture giant, IKEA could be a crucial step in popularising a more compact style of living. As ORI has noted, roughly ‘95% of the world population lives on 10% of the land.’ (science daily), so there is undoubtedly a need in the market.
While there is the appeal of convenience that comes with living in a city, there are also drawbacks to the alternative. Urban sprawl involves the clearing of natural landscapes for suburban developments as well as increased air pollution attributed to emission created by further travel by vehicle. Framing the furniture as a luxury, providing ease and simplicity rather than a compromise would be a crucial aspect in promoting a space conservative lifestyle, for both personal and environmental causes.
Industrial designers and interior architects are some of the creators in this space that are tasked with finding solutions that will help us evolve from space hungry living. There can be negative connotations that come with busy cities, conjuring visions of being ‘jam-packed’ into train carriages like sardines but contrasting that to beautiful and functional design that transforms smaller spaces could reimagine high rise living.
We see it as essential that we adapt to the global landscape. Our growing population is one of the many issues to consider now, as well as when issues multiply in the projected future. Get in touch with our Melbourne office to discover how we can help your business could benefit from industrial design with a vision of longevity and sustainability. Give as a call on: 9939 8880 or email us at hello@honepd.com.