Modern Requirements of 18-25 Years Old Adults Against Seating Furniture in Hungary

Abstract

This research examines the evolution of seating furniture in Hungary over the past 200 years by comparing three representative pieces. The first is the famous tulipános hope chest, also known as the wedding chest, a traditional piece of Hungarian furniture. The second example is a bench from 1965, designed by József Zalavári, a renowned Hungarian designer and university professor. The third piece is the Kuube smart street bench from 2020. These three pieces exemplify the changing requirements and preferences for seating furniture over time. To support this comparative analysis, an online questionnaire was conducted in April 2024 targeting young adults aged 18-25 years. The survey aimed to understand their preferences and expectations for modern seating furniture. It was distributed and completed through various Hungarian Facebook groups, where these respondents are regularly active. The primary focus of the questionnaire was to identify the most important factors for the next generation in terms of seating furniture usage. Surprisingly, the results indicated that respondents were not particularly concerned with recycling and renewable energy sources in furniture production. Instead, they prioritized multifunctionality and ergonomic design. These findings provide valuable insights for future designers and projects, highlighting the essential considerations for creating seating furniture that meets the needs and preferences of Generation Z and Alpha users. By understanding these trends, designers can develop innovative solutions that align with the evolving demands of younger generations.