Two very different stories in this issue, but with some interesting parallels to discover, principally the pervading undercurrent of anxiety since the pandemic.

At first glance, Self is escapist and playful, yet dig a little deeper and we discover this is an escapism from spiralling costs, living at home into adulthood and social media isolation.

And then there’s Forever, which looks at the looming impact of a world that is growing ever older. Here we ask how longevity could reshape not just our perceptions of ageing but reflect stark inequalities of life expectancy and pose serious questions about quality over quantity of life.

In both stories, it’s the power of creativity and design that could and should provide the answers.

A first glance from the Spring shows reveals that this may be a time for consolidation and playing it safe. Or conversely, designers and creatives may be inspired to take more risks. Most likely, we will see an uneven mix of both…

Also, in this issue

– Features essays, and interviews exploring the drivers behind the 2025/26 forecast.

– 40 pages of design and colour and material direction and analysis.

– Global colour palettes and geographic variances for Europe, Middle East, Africa, North America, Latin America, Asia, India, Australia & New Zealand.

– Continuity Colours for 2025/26

– Early adopters of our 2024/25 directions Plain and Plant in retail, kitchens, bathrooms, furniture, fashion, textiles and accessories.

– Focus on Spring shows including Maison & Objet, Stockholm Furniture Fair, Heimtextil and Surface Design Show

For 2025/26 forecasts, geographic focuses, in-depth seasonal CMF forecast, editorial images and more, become a Colour Hive member today.