This month’s issue of Furniture & Interiors highlights several industry-changing concepts, which will undoubtedly gain significance in the years to come.

Of course, green remains a topic of interest, and in her column, Jaclyn Hirschhaut discusses some of the latest eco-friendly furnishings. And, Judith Clark explains how designers and retailers can work together to better serve clients and improve their businesses.

Materials and technology receive mention this issue from designers Drue Lawlor and Linda Smith. In their NeoCon presentation, Lawlor and Smith talked about some groundbreaking research and developments, such as “smart” materials, electronic textiles and applying biomimicry principles to solve design problems.

One topic I hope to give greater coverage in future issues is universal design. Juliana Caitlin relates how she went from being virtually unfamiliar with the term to advocating its adoption.

This year marks the 17th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the concept of universal design, or “design for all,” is especially timely.

Underscoring its relevance, 78 million U.S. baby boomers are approaching retirement. Many will want to continue living independently in their own homes, but may need to address accessibility issues through remodeling or retrofitting. Accessibility in the home is something architects, designers and manufacturers will all be paying attention to in the coming years.

“It is important work to mainstream the huge population of elderly and not delegate them to one room in a home or space that has their needs met,” Caitlin says. “Keeping families together and active is one of the main benefits of universal design. Allowing children to be with grandparents and parents to care for themselves and others is truly a gift to the families that the design profession can make happen.”

With all these changes, staying at the forefront of the industry is paramount to success. In this issue, Furniture & Interiors provides coverage highlights of the Las Vegas Summer Market and NeoCon, but it is not always necessary to travel to broaden your knowledge base. As Liz Dreher Howard mentions, conferences can come to you via online continuing education seminars.

Above all, one thing is clear: From products and materials to new philosophies and perspectives, it’s an exciting time to be in the industry.