CMF for Sensory Engagement
Published 25 November 2025
As explored in our Look Ahead 2025, a collective yearning for sensory richness is driving the creation of engaging and dynamic experiences that deepen our immersion in the present moment. In this inspirational report, we explore how incorporating captivating sound, scent, taste and touch within colour, materials and finish (CMF) can heighten emotional resonance.
Dynamic
Multisensorial
Escapist
Dynamic materials and surfaces that adapt and shift in response to light, water, heat and touch boost sensory engagement and inspire communal participation – see our S/S 27 Colour & Materials Direction Unravel. Temperature-sensitive, UV-reactive, bioluminescent and iridescent materials deliver the ‘wow factor’, while prismatic and lenticular techniques enable lo-fi chromatic colour play.
Dynamic materials and surfaces that adapt and shift in response to light, water, heat and touch boost sensory engagement and inspire communal participation – see our S/S 27 Colour & Materials Direction Unravel. Temperature-sensitive, UV-reactive, bioluminescent and iridescent materials deliver the ‘wow factor’, while prismatic and lenticular techniques enable lo-fi chromatic colour play.
A next generation of multisensual CMF designed to stimulate and celebrate the senses offers a wealth of inspiration for future products, spaces and services. Incorporating functional fragrance, healing soundscapes, tempting food aesthetics and tactile textures opens up opportunities for captivating immersive spatial experiences and cross-category partnerships.
Emotive, awe-inspiring and elaborate installations offer welcome escapism from everyday life, as seen in our eccentric S/S 2025 Colour & Materials Direction Circus. Playful materiality and imaginative narratives create theatrical spaces, wondrous naturescapes transport visitors to another world, and sublime sanctuaries of sensorial richness allow for full immersion in sensual pleasure.
CMF for Sensory Engagement
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