Office design is constantly evolving to support workers' wants and needs. Read on to see how 2025 office design trends have changed since 2015.

Adrian Norman

Head of Design

Thursday, 2nd January 2025

2 minutes read time

About Adrian

Flexible workspaces

Flexible workspaces were gaining traction in 2015 but are now the dominant trend in 2025 and all signs suggest they’re here to stay. Over the last decade, the concept of the workplace has evolved dramatically. Businesses have moved away from rigid office layouts to embrace environments designed with adaptability and functionality in mind. This shift reflects the changing nature of work, where diverse team sizes, project based collaboration and hybrid work models demand more than traditional office setups can provide.

Modern workplace designs now prioritise flexibility, with spaces that can easily be reconfigured to meet various needs—whether it’s a brainstorming session, focused individual work or a moment of relaxation. These adaptable environments not only enhance efficiency but also foster creativity and wellbeing, ultimately boosting a business’s productivity and potential.

At our Soho office, we’ve embraced this trend with features that cater to a dynamic workflow. Impromptu meeting spaces can be created or hidden behind a curtain wall, offering privacy and noise reduction as needed. This allows for seamless transitions between collaborative discussions and focused work. Additionally, our seating area serves as a versatile hub for informal chats or quick team huddles, with furniture that can be easily moved to suit the occasion.

Morgan Lovell's Soho office

Collaboration is key

While collaboration was important in 2015, its importance to businesses has increased rapidly, with more communal spaces promoting interactions and strong relationships. Flexible desks and informal meeting areas encourage spontaneous conversations, sparking creativity and innovation. New Look's Whitechapel office is a prime example of collaborative working, designed to bring teams together in meaningful ways. The space features open plan layouts that facilitate easy communication, while breakout zones and shared lounges provide comfortable settings for brainstorming or casual discussions. This intentional design not only strengthens team dynamics but also fosters a culture of collaboration that drives success.

The flexibility of these spaces reflects a broader cultural shift towards more responsive and inclusive workplace environments. As we look to the future, it’s clear that adaptable designs are not just a trend but an essential component of the modern workplace.

GPE's collaborative, open plan workspace

New Look's collaborative, open plan workspace

Space efficiency

Rising rents have meant that optimising space is a priority, making flexible workspaces and unassigned desks more popular. Agile working gives employees more freedom in how and where they work by offering a mix of collaborative areas, quiet zones and versatile furniture that can be easily rearranged. This approach not only maximises the use of available space but also supports a variety of work styles and preferences. By reducing the need for dedicated desks and embracing multipurpose layouts, businesses can create environments that are both cost effective and employee-centric. These spaces foster a sense of autonomy and adaptability, enabling teams to thrive in a fast paced, ever changing work landscape.

Agile working

Noise control

Whether it’s 2015 or 2025, managing noise levels has remained a key consideration for workplaces. Offering a range of spaces—from designated quiet zones to town hall style gathering areas—empowers employees to choose environments that align with their tasks and personal work preferences. For instance, Kobalt’s soundproof recording studios demonstrate how specialised spaces can support specific needs, enabling artists to work without disrupting others. This balance of functionality and consideration helps create a harmonious workplace where everyone can perform at their best.

Kobalt's modern, soundproof recording studios

Kobalt's soundproof recording studios

Nature driven design

Although biophilia was seen as important in 2015, it’s now a top priority in 2025, heavily embedded into office design as a response to the increasing focus on employee wellbeing and sustainability. Features such as large windows, outdoor areas and live plants not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality, reduce stress and promote relaxation. These elements create environments that support healthy working habits and encourage moments of calm amidst busy schedules. Additionally, initiatives like cycle-to-work schemes, healthy snacks and wellness programs align with biophilic principles by fostering a holistic approach to employee health.

GPE’s Elm Yard building exemplifies this commitment by incorporating biophilia into its breakout space. The addition of lush greenery and a calming pastel colour palette transforms the area into a tranquil haven where employees can recharge. Such spaces are more relevant than ever in 2025, as businesses strive to create workplaces that prioritise mental health, creativity and connection to nature. By embedding biophilic design into everyday work environments, companies are not only enhancing productivity but also demonstrating their dedication to a sustainable and people-centric future.