Health, well-being and HUMIIN™ interactions at the International Home+ Housewares Show

Our friends at Intersection-inc. attended the International Home + Housewares Show in Chicago, IL, and provided some insights into the hot topics and products from the show.

The desire for a simplified and holistic lifestyle, eco concerns and convenience were reflected in many products at the show. From counter-top grain processors and kitchenwares to soft goods design, we continue to see the use of eco-friendly materials. Many new products featured multi-functional capabilities; once separate products are now being built together as one unit. Popular colours ranged from soft, warm neutrals to retro-inspired hints of orange, green and yellow. “The retro designs continue to shine, perhaps nourishing nostalgic feelings and memories of simpler times, yet the products contain only some of the current technological perks available today.” explains Chuck Pelly, Chief Creative Officer at Intersection-inc. and founder/former president of Designworks/USA, which grew to be one of the world’s top 10 design consultancies and became a wholly-owned subsidiary of BMW Group. These products all engage an emotional attachment based on the customers’ physiological and emotional needs.

Chuck also gave a talk on the “HUMIIN™” design approach, which focuses on creating a multi-sensory experience across all touch points, including aesthetics, ergonomics, form, color, materials, and usability as well as understanding the connections between human interactions with technology and nature in order to enhance empathy and create an emotional connection to a product and brand.

Housewares and homes are ripe for new solutions that integrate technology and human needs, as seen by the success of such products as the Nest thermostat.

For more on Chuck Pelly and this presentation please read: Inspiring Innovation: An Interview with Chuck Pelly of Intersection-Inc.