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Presented by Lexus. In The Future of Design, Karim Rashid explores how our relationship with the material world must evolve to keep pace with the rapid advancement of the digital age.
Humanity, having lived in a primarily analog world for 100,000 years, now finds itself in just the first 30 years of the digital era. Rashid asks: How will design bridge this gap between the material and immaterial, and how will it reshape social behaviour?
As consumers increasingly seek stimulation and inspiration from both their physical and digital environments, Rashid emphasises that future design must create seamless, pleasurable experiences across all aesthetic disciplines – blurring the lines between design, art, architecture, fashion, and more. This fusion will shape a future where technology and creativity coexist to elevate everyday life.
Yet, Rashid cautions that great design must remain rooted in human needs and desires, emphasising innovation, individuality, and meaningful differentiation. It’s not enough to simply adopt technology; designers must consciously design products, spaces, and experiences that inspire and engage the senses. Rashid’s lecture challenges attendees to envision a future where the boundaries between material and digital dissolve, delivering a more connected and fulfilling experience for all. This is the future of design: a world where creativity, technology, and human essence merge seamlessly to enhance our collective experience.