As our society continues to practice social distancing, design experts are looking into the future by strategizing ways to administer safe and functional design practices – promoting safety in design. Highlighting several “anti-spread” design practices, we break down some materials, finishes, and furniture that promote health and safety by minimizing the spread of Covid-19.
1. Minimizing Touch
According to WebMD, one way to catch and spread of Coronavirus is by touching surfaces that someone who has the virus has coughed or sneezed on. Perhaps the most universally touched elements in public spaces are door knobs and handles. In place of traditional push/pull doors, designers and architects are including automatic doors where possible. By eliminating the need to touch, public spaces become safer and promote a healthier environment for everyone. This touch-free door and storefront system by Assa Abloy at Topgolf Glendale is a perfect hands-off option to implement in a high traffic public space.
2. Cleanable Surfaces
The virus can live on surfaces for up to 2 to 3 days. In public and private spaces alike, it is essential to clean and disinfect surfaces easily and effectively. By deliberately choosing materials and finishes that are easy to clean, design experts are still creating beautiful spaces that also promote health and wellness.
Non-Textured and Durable Materials
Simply put: the easier to clean a surface, the better! Durable, flat surfaced materials are more favorable in today’s world. With cleaning practices increasing to maintain healthy public spaces, durable finishes that can take heavier cleaning and disinfecting without sacrificing quality are preferred. Designers are turning to patterned flat surfaces in lieu of textured and undulating materials for ease of cleaning a flat surface versus small scale crevices and corners.
Performance Fabrics
An emphasis on durable fabric and upholstery in commercial interior design is not a new concept, however with today’s pandemic it has become a requirement. Wipeable, durable fabric with 100,00+ double rub ratings are able withstand the heavy cleaning required to maintain spread of Covid-19. For example, performance fabrics by Maharam are a better chair upholstery option than a delicate linen.
3. Flexible Furniture
Spatial flexibility has become a crucial element in surviving the pandemic. Both residentially and commercially speaking, floor space is now being utilized differently day to day, as opposed to showcasing a fixed layout. With an emphasis on social distancing, the ability to move and multi-use furniture items from work, to play, or indoor to outdoor is an attribute design experts are implementing in our changing industry standards.
