Yasmeen Khalifa
Design & Balancing the Inner Child
As people grow old, many find themselves looking into their memories; their childhood in search for comfort. Gen Z has taken this trend by stride along with millennials not only in personality, but design. Embracing one’s inner child is welcomed as the era of the “Kidult” comes into play.
MAIN TOPICS
~ Decorative & Functional Games
~ Comfort in Classics
~ Combining Play & Space
Newly-opened LEGO House in Billund, Denmark
DECORATIVE & FUNCTIONAL GAMES
Function and fashion combining at its core, whether its a retro colorway or all natural materials, moving the classic packaging from many tabletop games and incorporating current concepts into the design can add a centerpiece to any space.
Not only do these provide a visual appeal, games are coming back in trend for its importance in bringing people together. In the post-covid society, many are trying to find physical ways to connect with guests rather than relying on devices for entertainment.
COMFORT IN CLASSICS
In almost the opposite perspective, this trend completely relies on nostalgia and identity as a focus of design for center pieces. Classics show personality and collectability. It is a point of pride in one’s space.
Figurines, billiards tables and retro cameras are only a few examples of current timepieces. Collectibles are hyped in limited edition releases, as supply lessens many go for high prices as they become art themselves.
Characters from games, tv shows, films and even social media can also be presented through artwork.
COMBINING SPACE & PLAY
Rather than the games being pieces of the space, many are transforming the entire space into a playground entirely. Being able to let go and embrace the child-like play not only proves therapeutic, but provides unique experiences depending on the user.
Even incorporating spaces that can transcend generations and even species like animals and pets.
Vetreska (US) creates dynamic and playful furniture for both people and their pets to play in
I myself am a board game nerd and find myself gravitating towards collectibles and aesthetic games. Not only would I incorporate this trend into my own spaces but I think it proves great opportunity for opening the emotional connection to spaces as adults.
IKEA ad incorporating building blocks
Sources
https://www.wgsn.com/insight/article/646b81deb169eb999153603e
https://www.wgsn.com/interiors/article/651346c1dd2ce724c6abc998
https://wearekidults.com/
https://brandthechange.com/strategy/kidult-culture-iconic-brands-mastering-marketing-to-reach-the-inner-child/
