The Future of Interior Design: C.Next Designers Summit 2024
The sun-kissed shores of Los Cabos welcomed the crème de la crème of the design world during the third annual C.Next Designers Summit. As the principal of Studio Garrison, I had the honor of participating in this one-of-a-kind experience where I got a glimpse at the future of interior design. Let me take you through the captivating days spent at the Grand Velas resort, where innovation, collaboration, and inspiration converge.
Setting the Stage
The Cosentino Group, renowned for its innovative surfaces in architecture and design, orchestrated this remarkable gathering. Against the backdrop of azure waters and swaying palms, we gathered to learn, connect, and envision the future of interior design as an industry. The stakes were high, the expectations even higher.
Keynote Insights
The summit kicked off with a powerful keynote panel. Eduardo Cosentino, the CEO of Americas and EVP of Global Corporate Sales, shared his vision for designing the future. His words resonated with all of us: "In unity lies strength." We were reminded that collaboration fuels creativity, and together, we could overcome any challenge.
Eduardo Cosentino
Joining Eduardo were luminaries such as Stanley Cheng, Founder & CEO of Hestan, and Laura E. Kohler, Chief Sustainable Living Officer and Member of the Board of Directors at Kohler Co. Their insights into sustainable design and forward-thinking solutions left an indelible mark on our minds.
L to R: Helen Cheng, Stanley Cheng, Paco Consentino, Eduardo Cosentino, Kerrie Kelly - Kerrie Kelly Interior Design
Designing with Emotional Connection
As the sun dipped below the horizon, we delved into sessions exploring design's emotional side. How do we create spaces that resonate with the human spirit? How can heritage and innovation coexist harmoniously? These questions fueled passionate discussions among top and emerging designers alike. The future of interior design will require an emotional connection, whatever that may look like.
The summit wasn't just about talks; it was about immersion. We engaged with best-in-class brands, including ELLE DECOR, House Beautiful, and VERANDA. Their editors— Jennifer Levene Bruno, Carisha Swanson, Joanna Saltz, Asad Ayrkett, Steele Marcoux, Camille Okhio, and Grace Haynes —guided us through trends, aesthetics, and the pulse of design.
And then there was Ryan Bloom, Founder and President of Urban Bonfire, who spoke passionately about outdoor living spaces. His insights into creating functional yet stylish outdoor environments left us inspired and ready to transform patios and rooftops.
L to R: Garrison Hullinger, Laetitia Laurent - Laure Nell Interiors
L to R: Carisha Swanson, Camille Okhio, Grace Haynes
Sparks of Creativity
Ah, the wonderfully entertaining and uplifting discussion between Jeremiah Brent and Edward Leaman! These two design luminaries engaged in a spirited dialogue that inspired us all. Their contrasting perspectives—Jeremiah’s flair for warmth and Edward’s passion for nurturing your brand—created a delightful tension. We laughed and we discovered new ways to infuse soul into our creations.
Jeremiah Brent
Structured Patterns and Fluted Textures
I was introduced to the new Dekton Ukiyo, a fluted collection by Claudia Afshar, that offers two structured patterns and introduces a fresh dimension with linear, geometric fluting options. These surfaces transcend time, urging us to live in the present moment. I’m excited to use these innovative products in our future interior design projects.
Gourmet Dinners Under the Stars
But wait, there’s more! As twilight enveloped the resort, we gathered for enchanting dinners under the star-studded Mexican sky.
Imagine mingling with industry leaders, stars, and fellow designers from across the United States. Conversations flowed like fine wine, and friendships blossomed.
Anita Hubbard - Anita Hubbard Design
The clinking of glasses echoed our shared passion for the future of design, and the laughter was contagious.
The Future Beckons
As the summit drew to a close, we left Los Cabos with hearts full of inspiration. The future of interior design lies in our hands, and the connections forged during those four days will ripple through our work for years to come.
Thank you, Patty Dominguez, Vice President of Business Development for Cosentino Americas, for fostering this creative haven. Together, we'll continue to shape the industry, one design at a time.