Human-Centered Design Takes Center Stage at Atlanta Design Festival

September 27, 2025

Today, the Creative Futures Conference at the Atlanta Design Festival brought together thought leaders from across the creative spectrum to explore how design can drive radical transformation in business, culture, and community. With a lineup featuring visionaries like Nu Goteh, recipient of the 2025 Cooper Hewitt National Design Award, the conference delved into topics ranging from design for disability to the future of public spaces like Stone Mountain.

Embracing Human-Centered Design

A central theme of the conference was the shift towards human-centered design prioritizing the needs, experiences, and well-being of individuals in the design process. This approach emphasizes empathy, inclusivity, and accessibility, ensuring that design solutions are not only functional but also meaningful and impactful for diverse communities.

Textile Design: Beyond Aesthetics

In the realm of textile design, this human-centered approach is gaining momentum. Designers are increasingly considering how fabrics feel, how they contribute to comfort and well-being, and how they interact with other materials in a space. This holistic view is leading to more thoughtful and intentional choices in material selection, moving beyond mere aesthetics to encompass sensory experiences and emotional resonance.

Creating Material Families

One innovative concept discussed was the idea of "material families." This involves curating a cohesive selection of materials hard and soft

that work harmoniously together in terms of texture, color, and performance. By treating materials as interconnected members of a family, designers can create more unified and immersive environments that resonate on a deeper level with users.

Practical Takeaways for Designers

For designers looking to integrate these insights into their practice, here are some actionable tips:

• Prioritize Sensory Experience: When selecting materials, consider how they feel to the touch, how they sound, and how they contribute to the overall ambiance of a space.

• Consider Material Interactions: Think about how different materials will work together in a space, ensuring they complement each other in both aesthetics and function.

• Engage with Users: Involve end-users in the design process to gain insights into their needs and preferences, ensuring the final design truly serves them.

• Stay Informed: Attend conferences, workshops, and events to stay abreast of the latest trends and innovations in design.

Bonus for Design Teams and Fabric Houses:

To give your reps a tangible way to present finished products, we provide swatches of your treated fabrics. These samples allow design teams and fabric houses to feel the softness, texture, and quality of our treatments firsthand—making it easier to demonstrate the excellence of your finished collections and inspire confidence in your clients.

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