by HIGH POINT — Science in Design will debut Science Scouts, an innovative new initiative at the October High Point Market designed to recognize manufacturers whose products contribute to healthier, more restorative living environments.
The program brings together design, science and human health to identify and celebrate products that reflect emerging research in
neuroaesthetics and biophilic design.
The Science Scouts have established a standardized, science-informed evaluation framework grounded in research on how the built environment influences human physiology, perception and emotional well-being. During market, products that meet the established criteria will receive the official Science in Design Selected designation, displayed within participating exhibitors’ showrooms.
Selected products will also be photographed and featured in post-market marketing, educational programming and industry communications — extending recognition well beyond the showroom floor. Bringing Science to the Products We Live With,
a growing body of research demonstrates that the environments around us influence how we feel, function and respond to stress.
Design strategies associated with neuroaesthetics and biophilia — including natural patterns, organic forms, varied textures, appropriate lighting, color relationships and elements that evoke comfort and safety— contribute to environments that support relaxation, attention, restoration and well-being.
The Science Scouts will translate this emerging science into practical criteria for evaluating products. Among the design elements they will look for are dappled lighting, fractal and nature-inspired patterning, tactile textures, color contrast, organic forms, and furniture and upholstery that communicate comfort and safety.
Recognizing the Science Behind Great Design
Health and wellness are becoming defining considerations in residential design, creating an extraordinary opportunity for the furniture industry to demonstrate leadership.
For years, manufacturers have been creating products that help people feel more comfortable, calm, connected and restored. Science Scouts provides a new way to recognize those contributions and make the science behind great design visible. The message is simple: Great design is not only beautiful — it supports human health and well-being.
Science is increasingly validating what many designers and manufacturers have understood intuitively for generations. Science Scouts is about recognizing that leadership, celebrating innovation and giving the industry a common language for understanding the relationship between design and human health.
A Continuing Platform for Innovation
The Science Scouts Program is expected to become a recurring feature of future High Point Markets, creating an ongoing platform for recognizing manufacturers and products at the intersection of design, science and human health.
Manufacturers and exhibitors interested in having their products considered for Science in Design Selected recognition are
encouraged to contact Science in Design prior to market. Contact: mike@scienceindesign.com for more information or to get involved.
Mike Peterson is the founder of Science in Design.
