It can be tricky to predict the future. Experts across the world struggle to determine where the world might be in fifty years time and many a fierce debate has revolved around what the future might hold. Never one to shy away from a challenge, we've put together the top five factors that we think will shape the interior world for years to come. As expected, technology is set to play a huge role in the future of interior design. But which technologies? And how might we use them? For anyone that works, wants to work, or has an interest in one of the most creative and exciting industries out there – here’s what the future has in store for interior design.

Smart homes are already everywhere. Barely a day goes by without one of the tech giants releasing a new gadget designed to make our homes more connected. Google Home has already been around for years now – a smarthome control centre that acts as a personal assistant, alarm and speaker rolled into one. Speak to your Google Home device and it will turn up your heating, turn off your television, or remind you about upcoming appointments.

The advancement in 3D printing is shaping the interior world to such an extent that some believe we are on the cusp of another industrial revolution. Where it used to be costly and cumbersome, today 3D printing is efficient and exciting. Interior designers can quickly demonstrate their designs and allow their clients to touch and feel their ideas in miniature form. With 3D printing, the time between idea conception and its implementation is drastically reduced. This speeds up an interior designer’s work and reduces costs for the client – a win for both parties.

The Tiny House movement is one of the most striking phenomena that is set to overturn the way we think about interiors. Put simply, it is the movement whereby individuals are actively downsizing their living spaces, typically to under 400 square feet. The Tiny House movement has gripped America, and is partly in response to rising house prices but also thanks to a greater environmental awareness and willingness to reduce our carbon footprint. Advocates of the movement are masters at living in well-planned and incredibly efficient living spaces. They argue that downsizing to such an extent forces you to appreciate experiences over possessions – simplifying your life and your spending habits.

Virtual reality (VR) has been the word on everyone’s lips this year. From glorifying gaming to helping with healthcare, VR is set to take centre stage in many an industry over the next few years. Interior experts are particularly excited about its uses within their profession. Imagine a designer walking their client through a room they have created, or explaining an architectural structure by actually being beside it. Imagine testing out hundreds of wallpaper designs, furniture pieces or flooring types at the click of a button. It’s no surprise that the interior design industry is welcoming VR as the start of a new, technological future.