The need for comfort was the most prominent direction across product launches. Whether supersized and voluptuous or slimly curved to deliver optimal ergonomics on a minimal footprint, enveloping shapes and cosy upholstery are omnipresent in new collections.

At Milan Design Week 2022, the 70s spirit and seductive design served as a frequent inspiration – particularly for brand presentations – leading us to call it a Key Trend. The theme persisted this year, boosted by a focus on brand anniversaries and archives, inspiring furniture collections made for socialising and conviviality.

Industrial materials and features provide products with a sleek appearance and streamline manufacturing processes.

Architectural references dominate new collections, giving products graphic silhouettes with a striking appeal.

Nature continues to be a leading theme, with brands drawing inspiration from biological forms to create soothing and inviting interiors.

An appetite for decorative interiors and unique expressiveness is reflected in an emphasis on eye-catching details informed by fashion and crafts.

The outdoors is a growing focus for brands, with quality materials and playful features elevating the aesthetics.

Agile work routines are driving collections that introduce tactility and adaptability to corporate and residential offices.

The time of sweeping sustainability statements that pack a PR punch seems to have passed as brands choose to focus on product-level innovations and circularity-enhancing improvements.

As the biannual Euroluce returned to Salone del Mobile, there was a clear spotlight on innovation, functionality and aesthetic qualities in lighting design. Collections offering visual trickery and surprising effects stood out in particular.