Ambius designer shares top design trends for 2014

1 June 2014

Des Plaines, Ill., Jan. 6, 2014 — Ambius, www.ambius.com, the global interior landscaping leader, has released the top design trends to watch for in 2014. Award-winning Ambius designer, Laura Burns-Lambert, sees office and retail design trends leaning toward local craftsmanship, LEED-certification and strong jewel-tone colors.

“Mass production pieces and safe neutral colors have been a long-time trend, but now people are breaking out of that pattern. Décor that is handcrafted and local, muted metals like brass as well as environmentally-sound products that can offer LEED points are all trending with my clients,” Burns-Lambert said. “There is a higher level of interest of where products come from and how they impact the environment which has transcended into the commercial building sector. People are more willing to spend money on one quality piece of art or plant that has impact. Quality over quantity is the mantra for 2014.”

Among overall trends that are growing in popularity, the most prevalent include:

• Craftsmanship—Handmade quality products are taking the lead over inexpensive, imported and throw-away products that have little longevity.
• Jewel tones—Indigo blue, bottle green and oxblood are replacing the safe neutrals of the past. The Pantone color of the year for 2014 is Radiant Orchid 18-3224, a blend of fuchsia, purple and pink, which will be seen in fashion and makeup but can be used as an accent color for interiors.
• Evolving neutrals—Neutrals will always be around but they are evolving from espresso browns and black into grey undertones, camel and light chocolate milk tones.
• Healthy work spaces—Plants, artwork and even scent that impart a sense of wellbeing make for a more enjoyable climate for employees and guests.
• LEED certification—Products that are sustainable or made from 80%-post consumer recycled plastic can help an organization with sought-after LEED-certified points.
• Upcycling—Converting outdated items and re-purposing them into useful items; used light bulbs can be painted and turned into Christmas ornaments or old windows turned into picture frames.

While the design trends are a reflection of a more positive economic outlook, Burns-Lambert says the trends leading into 2014 are an exciting opportunity for clients as well as Ambius designers.

“Handcrafted items, healthy plants that enliven an environment, sustainable products and vivid colors all are wonderful design elements to work with,” Burns-Lambert said. “Clients feel good about what they are selecting and purchasing and designers feel good about the products and designs they are creating for their clients. For business, it opens up the opportunity for greater creativity that it is a win-win for everyone.”

Ambius designers were honored with 12 awards at the Plantscape Industry Alliance awards in August. Burns-Lambert received three of those awards: two for Christmas décor and one for a major renovation at a shopping center. She added these awards to a growing list that includes hotels, retail outlets, and office properties.

About Ambius
Ambius is the world’s largest provider of plants, holiday décor, replica foliage and flowers for commercial environments. Ambius also offers a broad range of products and services including ambient scenting and artwork which can help improve employee productivity, reduce absenteeism and boost well-being in the workplace. Founded in 1963, Ambius is a division of Rentokil-Initial, plc. For more information, visit www.ambius.com and follow Ambius on Facebook and Twitter.