What are the most important office design trends to watch in the next few years?

3 Human-centric and inclusive design

A third trend that will influence office design is the increasing focus on human-centric and inclusive design. Human-centric design is the approach that puts people at the center of the design process. It considers the needs, preferences, and behaviors of the users and creates solutions that enhance their experience, satisfaction, and engagement. Inclusive design is the approach that ensures that the design is accessible, usable, and equitable for all people, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, ability, or background. For example, office design can incorporate ergonomic furniture, adjustable lighting, acoustic solutions, and diverse spaces that cater to different work styles, preferences, and needs.

4 Wellness and safety design

A fourth trend that will affect office design is the heightened attention to wellness and safety design. Wellness design is the integration of features and amenities that promote the physical, mental, and emotional health of the users. It includes aspects such as air quality, water quality, nutrition, fitness, and mindfulness. Safety design is the implementation of measures and protocols that protect the users from potential hazards, risks, and threats. It includes aspects such as sanitation, ventilation, filtration, and security. For example, office design can incorporate touchless technology, biometric access, air purifiers, and wellness programs.

5 Branding and storytelling design

A fifth trend that will impact office design is the importance of branding and storytelling design. Branding design is the expression of the identity, values, and culture of the organization through the visual and verbal elements of the space. It aims to create a distinctive and memorable impression on the users and stakeholders. Storytelling design is the use of narratives, symbols, and artifacts to convey the history, vision, and mission of the organization. It aims to create an emotional and meaningful connection with the users and stakeholders. For example, office design can incorporate logos, colors, graphics, and displays that reflect the essence and purpose of the organization.

6 Innovation and experimentation design

A sixth trend that will shape office design is the need for innovation and experimentation design. Innovation design is the generation of new ideas, concepts, and solutions that address the current and future challenges and opportunities of the organization. It involves aspects such as creativity, collaboration, and problem-solving. Experimentation design is the testing and validation of the ideas, concepts, and solutions through prototyping, feedback, and iteration. It involves aspects such as learning, adaptation, and improvement. For example, office design can incorporate spaces and tools that facilitate brainstorming, ideation, and prototyping, such as labs, studios, and workshops.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?