Header: Courtesy of NAUU Collectible Art Design
As we enter 2025, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the furniture designs that defined the past year. 2024 was a year of innovation, where designers reimagined how furniture fits into our lives.
From smart technology that simplifies everyday tasks to sustainable creations that give waste a second life, these pieces showcase a perfect fusion of form, function, and purpose. Each design tells a unique story—some inspired by ancient cultures, others driven by the evolving needs of modern living. Join us as we revisit the top five furniture pieces that made 2024 an unforgettable year in design.
Sustainable Furniture by Sungai Design
Sungai Design, an innovative studio by Indonesian non-profit Sungai Watch, redefines sustainable interior design by transforming Bali’s river plastic waste into functional, artistic furniture. Each piece embodies Bali’s cultural heritage, with colors and textures inspired by the island’s landscape. Plastic bags collected during river cleanups undergo an intensive cleaning and heat-pressing process, forming durable sheets that become the foundation for unique furniture creations. Using CNC technology, these sheets are precisely cut, minimizing waste and ensuring high-quality craftsmanship.
Sungai Design’s zero-waste philosophy and artisanal touch result in elegant, contemporary pieces celebrating sustainability and Balinese tradition. Beyond aesthetics, the project supports ongoing river cleanups and raises global awareness about ethical design, positioning Sungai Design as a trailblazer in eco-conscious living.
NÁMI Collection by NORNA Design
The NÁMI Collection by NORNA Design merges futuristic aesthetics with timeless functionality, offering a captivating vision of the future rooted in contemporary design. Inspired by postmodern sci-fi films and architectural grandeur, the collection features three key pieces: a minimalist lounge for rest, a versatile bench with added cushions for comfort, and the compact NÁMI Seat, which doubles as a footrest or standalone chair. Characterized by curved, semicircular forms (that will be popular in 2025 as well) and sleek metal frames, these pieces evoke both detachment and familiarity, adapting seamlessly to industrial or domestic settings. Designed by Petra Pinezits and Alexandra Takács, NÁMI reflects a resilience and transformation narrative bridging the past, present, and future.
Pompeii Collection by NAUU Collectible Art Design
The Pompeii Collection by Portuguese design studio NAUU Collectible Art Design is a striking fusion of ancient Roman inspiration and modern minimalism. Comprising an armchair, ottoman, and sofa, the collection draws from the historical significance of the lost city of Pompeii, blending cream-colored handcrafted upholstery with elegant brass accents. Rose gold brass spheres at the base and intricate brass hand sculptures evoke the artistry of Roman culture, while the clean, sculptural lines ensure a contemporary appeal. Produced in Portugal and unveiled in Riyadh, the collection reflects NAUU’s dedication to innovative residential, commercial, and hospitality design, offering timeless pieces that celebrate heritage and modernity.
Otto workstation chair by Jenna Jang
Otto, a multifunctional workstation chair designed by Jenna Jang, redefines hybrid workspace furniture with its seamless blend of functionality, comfort, and elegance. Featuring a refined oak wood structure and plush cushions, Otto effortlessly adapts to home and office settings, catering to the new normal of hybrid work. Its standout feature is a pivoting table that serves as a versatile surface for laptops, documents, or even as an armrest, emphasizing adaptability. The chair’s ergonomic design includes a bulging backrest for added support, while its handcrafted oak frame and varnished finish exude natural warmth. Otto embodies modern innovation, making it a stylish and practical addition to any workspace.
Olinda bookcase by Mikel Alonso Design
Olinda, the smart bookshelf by Mikel Alonso Design, redefines organization and aesthetics for book lovers in the digital age. Seamlessly blending advanced technology with minimalist design, Olinda features image recognition and Lidar sensors that quickly locate books, documents, or personal items. Simply ask, “Hey Olinda, where’s ‘The Invisible Cities’ by Italo Calvino?” the shelf lights up, pinpointing the item’s exact location. Beyond functionality, Olinda’s sleek lines and modern elegance complement any interior. Embracing “calm technology,” this innovative piece enhances convenience while maintaining a harmonious balance between the digital and physical, making it a dream come true for bookworms.
