As the new post-pandemic normal settles in and people adapt to a context of uncertainty, constant adversities, and pessimism, we are moving away from a moment in which consumers expected brands to rise up to society's challenges and into one when they’re demanding genuine allyship from businesses.

A panacea for the pandemic, Design Emergency is a research project hosted on Instagram. Every week, the founders investigate the design industry’s response to COVID-19. The series also explores how the aftermath of the global crisis could reshape the way designers approach their craft.

The COVID-19 pandemic sparked a swift evolution of the home. Where it was once a private space, it’s now a pseudo-public, multipurpose area required to fill a range of personal and professional needs. How can brands tap into changing nesting aspirations and address new domestic challenges?

As the climate crisis pushes people to rethink their habits, many are looking to extend the lifecycle of what they own and finding greater value in a circular business model. IKEA is looking to improve the durability of its products by providing customers with disassembly instructions.

After months in lockdown, many people may be feeling eager to revamp their abodes. The Design Home app is playing into this desire to ‘pandecorate’, allowing users to flex their interior design skills virtually and bring their looks to life through in-game e-commerce.