Making space for the social network: Designing for new ‘social’ stakeholders

The 21^st century is, undoubtedly, the Age of Technology. In all aspects of our lives, we are increasingly reliant on technology; digital devices, wireless networks, and sophisticated user interfaces provide the backbone for the ways we live, work, and play. Technology has left its mark on even the most basic and universal of human activities: our interactions with one another. Social media, apps, and mobile devices mean that now more than ever, we are choosing to communicate remotely with our colleagues, friends, and loved ones. Or so the story has gone for the past few years.

In 2018, however, things look set to change. A combination of growing wariness of social media and a renewed interest in analogue has prompted a renaissance of sorts for face-to-face interactions. The design and broader communities are responding to this shift, recognising that the digital world can never quite recreate the physical world in all its glory. The sounds, the smells, the sights: advanced as technology may be, it is yet to replicate the atmosphere, tactility, and immersive experience of outstanding architecture and interior design.

The Social Space category of the INDE Awards recognises this and honours outstanding spaces that provide backdrops for us to interact and play. Projects in this category are hospitality or food and beverage spaces that tell a story, capture the imagination, and bring people together. Lively, dynamic, and imbued with a distinctive character, the winning Social Space will be an exemplar of how good design can shape the ways in which we relate to one another. This category of the INDE Awards celebrates design that maintains a human scale and fosters strong, close ties between its occupants.

This year, The Social Space category is presented by leading global technology company Dyson, whose own design portfolio is centred on solving problems that others ignore. For over thirty years, Dyson has led the global appliance industry in innovative, efficient technologies for the home and business that combine style and performance. Around the world, the Dyson name is synonymous with a relentless inventive spirit, innovative design engineering and a striking, instantly recognisable contemporary aesthetic.

The perfect partner for The Social Space category, Dyson harnesses the power of design to delight end users whilst also providing solutions to the operators of a Social Space. Be it combining a hand dryer and a tap in one to avoid water on the floor or constant restocking of paper towel or their lighting range that last for up to 36 years without ever having to change a light bulb. Dyson products prioritise productivity and wellbeing, helping to improve experiences of employees and patrons.

As major global champions of the far-reaching, transformative power of design, Dyson is pleased to present The Social Space category of the 2018 INDE Awards and celebrate excellence in dynamic, experience-based design.

 

Indesign Media wishes to welcome Dyson to the 2018 INDE.Awards. Follow Dyson’s inspiring design journey, here.