In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a central focus of International Design. Increased awareness of the importance of achieving net zero and addressing other environmental issues like pollution and resource depletion, has moved architects and designers to rethink traditional practices and adopt innovative approaches to product design, interior spaces, and urban planning.

Energy efficiency & carbon abatement

The net zero imperative has resulted in a marked increase in the use of solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage. At the same time, the effectiveness of passive design strategies, like building orientation, insulation, and the innovative use of shading has become better understood and employed to reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling; and international certifications like LEED, BREEAM, and Green Star are helping motivate designers to integrate sustainable principles into their projects.

Sustainable materials & circularity

Eco-friendly and recycled materials, including bamboo, cork, reclaimed timber, recycled plastics, and low-impact composites have become more popular than ever. The circular economy model, which favours the re-use or recycling of building materials as an alternative to the traditional linear model of consumption, can be seen everywhere from furniture to packaging.

Technological innovation & Smart Solutions

Technological progress is facilitating the integration of sustainability into design. Smart building systems, powered by digitally connected sensors, optimise energy consumption and water use, while AI-driven modelling helps reduce material waste in construction. 3D printing enables precise fabrication with minimal resources, and digital tools facilitate collaborative, cross-border design processes. Designers are also leveraging augmented and virtual reality to prototype sustainable solutions and engage stakeholders remotely, reducing the carbon footprint associated with travel and physical sampling.

Biophilic & Regenerative Design

Biophilic design, or the ambition to include references to the natural world in the built environment, is another trend in International Design. Intended to contribute to wellbeing, it can be seen in living walls, green roofs, natural light, indoor gardens, and the like.

Meanwhile regenerative design, a philosophy that looks to actually play a role in restoring ecosystems, has resulted in buildings that are designed to generate energy, purify air, and support biodiversity. It can be seen in buildings designed not just for people but the broader natural world.

Global Collaboration & Local Context

International design is seeing increased collaboration across cultures and geographies. Designers are sharing best practices, open-source materials, and innovative solutions through global networks and platforms.

At the same time, there’s a growing recognition of the importance of adapting sustainable strategies to local contexts, respecting indigenous knowledge and regional climate conditions. This localised focus is intended to ensure that design solutions are practical, culturally relevant, and more likely to succeed in their intended settings.

Ethical Consumption

It’s important to note that sustainability is not just about ecological considerations. It necessarily also includes community-based, ethical and social dimensions. In line with this, those interested in genuine sustainability always consider things like supply chains and labour practices, when sourcing building materials.

Similarly, like-minded designers are responding by prioritising fair trade, supporting artisan communities and seeking to produce products that promote inclusivity and accessibility.

To summarise, the key trends associated with International Design are all about setting the stage for a more sustainable, equitable, and inspiring world; and one in which design contributes positively to both the human community and the planet.

Entries are now open and will close 24th June 2026. Nominations for the International Design Category of the 2026 Sustainability Awards can be completed here.

Image: Last year's winners 'Renovation and Extension of the Beaucastel Winery – Rénovation et Extension du Château de Beaucastel' by STUDIO MEDITERRANEE & STUDIO MUMBAI / Photography by Iwan Baan

Matthew McDonald

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