Our services

Trend Forecasting and Research

Looking Ahead to
Shape What’s Next

Good design doesn’t just follow trends it anticipates them. At Thought & Found, we immerse ourselves in cultural shifts, market behaviors, and emerging technologies to identify patterns that inspire groundbreaking ideas.

Our trend forecasting process is designed to help brands:

  • Understand the implications of evolving consumer lifestyles.
  • Align their products with market demands before they peak.
  • Identify untapped opportunities for innovation.

We are a match if

  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • A brand manager looking to drive your company's sustainability & innovation agendas
  • Founder looking to translate your brand values into great products
  • Business owner looking to work closely with a creative team to bring bold ideas to life
  • Looking to source homeware products in bulk from India
  • A manufacturer looking to develop unique products for international buyers
  • Looking to expand the existing brand palette through material research
  • Want help with vendor development in India

Asian Paints

For the past three years, we’ve partnered with Asian Paints to explore the future of India’s home decor space. By delving into urban millennial preferences for aesthetics, colors, materials, and patterns, we’ve contributed to shaping their annual trend report, Color Next, while providing actionable insights to guide their product development.

Here are some standout examples of our collaboration:

/01

The Study of Black

We explored how the Indian diaspora is embracing the color black, challenging its traditionally reserved status in home decor. This study uncovered opportunities for bold and elegant uses of black in interiors, redefining its role in Indian design sensibilities.

/02

Sleep Science

This initiative addressed the global health crisis surrounding lack of sleep, translating it into a color, material, and finish (CMF) study. Imagine a home designed for better sleep this is the vision we helped Asian Paints bring to life. The result was a thought-provoking exploration of how design can promote wellness through spaces tailored for rest and rejuvenation.

/03

Shrooms: An Aesthetic Study of Mushrooms

Capturing the global fascination with mushrooms, this study celebrated their organic beauty. We focused on the micro-textures, imperfections, and interconnected forms of the mycelial world, translating these qualities into a collection of colors, materials, and finishes. The collection embodies the porous surfaces and intricate interconnections that define mushrooms, presenting them as an inspiring design language.

By translating cultural trends and consumer insights into practical, creative strategies, we’ve ensured Asian Paints remains at the forefront of India’s home decor narrative, always ahead of the curve.

We are a match if

  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • A brand manager looking to drive your company's sustainability & innovation agendas
  • Founder looking to translate your brand values into great products
  • Business owner looking to work closely with a creative team to bring bold ideas to life
  • Looking to source homeware products in bulk from India
  • A manufacturer looking to develop unique products for international buyers
  • Looking to expand the existing brand palette through material research
  • Want help with vendor development in India

Frequently Asked Questions

What is trend forecasting, and why is it important?
Trend forecasting is the process of analyzing consumer behavior, cultural movements, emerging technologies, and market patterns to predict what will shape future industries. It helps brands stay ahead of the curve by anticipating market shifts rather than reacting to them.
How does Thought & Found approach trend forecasting?

We combine deep research, data analysis, and cultural insights to identify patterns that influence consumer preferences. Our work spans industries like home decor, fashion, and consumer goods, ensuring brands are equipped with actionable insights that align with evolving market demands.

Can trend forecasting really predict what consumers will want?

Yes! While trends evolve organically, we use research-backed methodologies to identify signals early indicators of shifts in lifestyle, aesthetics, and technology. This allows us to pinpoint emerging trends before they become mainstream and guide brands in making informed decisions.

 How far into the future do you predict trends?

We typically forecast 1-5 years ahead, depending on the industry and product lifecycle. For fast-moving sectors like fashion and consumer electronics, we focus on short-term trends (1-2 years), while for home decor and industrial design, we look at longer-term trends (3-5 years).

 What industries benefit from trend forecasting?

Trend forecasting is crucial across home décor, consumer goods, retail, fashion, technology, automotive, beauty, and hospitality. Any industry that wants to stay ahead of changing consumer expectations can benefit from future insights.

How do you differentiate between short-term fads and long-term trends?

We analyze cultural depth, adoption rate, and cross-industry influence to distinguish fleeting fads from sustainable trends. A fad is short-lived and hype-driven, while a true trend evolves, adapts, and integrates into multiple industries over time.

How do you forecast color and material trends?

Through data analysis, market research, and cultural studies, we track how consumer preferences shift in relation to economic, environmental, and social factors. Our ongoing work with Color Next by Asian Paints allows us to develop CMF strategies based on real consumer behavior.

How does trend forecasting influence product development?

By understanding upcoming trends, brands can:
✔ Make informed design choices aligned with future consumer preferences.
✔ Launch products at the right time when demand peaks.
✔ Reduce risk by avoiding outdated concepts.
✔ Differentiate themselves in the market with innovative offerings.

Can trend forecasting be tailored to a specific brand or market?

Absolutely! We offer customized trend reports and industry-specific insights tailored to your brand’s audience, ensuring relevance and strategic direction

We are a match if

  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • You are a startup founder looking for disruptive product design
  • A brand manager looking to drive your company's sustainability & innovation agendas
  • Founder looking to translate your brand values into great products
  • Business owner looking to work closely with a creative team to bring bold ideas to life
  • Looking to source homeware products in bulk from India
  • A manufacturer looking to develop unique products for international buyers
  • Looking to expand the existing brand palette through material research
  • Want help with vendor development in India

Let’s create something exceptional

Have an idea you’re excited about?

We’d love to hear from you.

Whether it’s refining a concept or creating something from scratch, our team is here to collaborate and bring your vision to life. Schedule a consultation with our creative team to explore how we can help.


For inquiries email us at
aditi@thought-found.com or Call +91 8657108213