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DESIGN 49
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argument: survey data reveal clear age-wise preference
variations, while interviews explain why these patterns occur Freestocks.org
and the literature confirms that urbanisation and market
globalisation favour modular expansion.
Together, these form strong evidence to support modular
furniture’s growth while highlighting the relevance of handmade

craftsmanship.
In conclusion, the shift from handmade furniture to modular
furniture signifies societal change due to lifestyle changes,
technological advancements, trends and evolving consumer
preferences.
It also highlights that practicality and affordability have This transition raises concern for the traditional skills and
taken a higher ground than art and tradition. craftsmanship and the challenges the artisans face to keep
Although handmade furniture is everyone’s desire due to up with the changing times.
its distinctive craftsmanship, emotional ties and unique value, In spite of these obstacles, manufacturers of modular

modular furniture adapts to the modern, fast paced, impatient furniture have found ways to include customisable elements,
lifestyle. It offers affordability, accommodates space constraint, simulating the distinctiveness of handmade items within a
and gives a feel of customisation. standardised manufacturing framework.
The analysis indicates the younger population tends more The analysis also points towards a combination of the
towards modular furniture and are likely to buy from online two systems to form a hybrid solution which shall cater to the
portals such as IKEA, Amazon, Livspace, etc. for the newness issues faced by both the systems. This approach suggests a
it delivers and for the permutations it offers for smaller living blend between mass production and uniqueness, satisfying

environments. todays customer’s needs and transforming the furniture sector.
The older generation, although lean towards the handmade The future is not about which system or style shall hold
furniture, still accept modular’s functionality it offers in specific the stakes but in development of a hybrid furniture system
areas such as kitchen, sofas, etc. the increasing popularity of that combines efficiency of modular design with uniqueness
modular furniture is not just about change of preferences but of tradition.
a reaction to modern lifestyle. To remain competitive, a bridge between tradition and trend
This transition raises concern for the traditional skills and needs to form to create more sustainable, scalable, customised
craftsmanship and the challenges the artisans face to keep product to appeal the present fast paced life.
up with the changing times. The findings suggest that modular manufacturers must

In spite of these obstacles, manufacturers of modular invest in material quality, repairability, and modular–handmade
furniture have found ways to include customisable elements, hybrid options to maintain long-term market relevance.
simulating the distinctiveness of handmade items within a For policymakers, supporting artisan training programmes,
standardised manufacturing framework. cluster development, and integration of digital fabrication tools
The findings support the hypothesis and show that age could help sustain traditional craftsmanship while enabling it
and everyday lifestyle needs, more than design preferences, to participate in modern supply chains. FDM
are driving this change in the furniture market. ENQUIRY NO. 4301