The workplace is continually evolving and 2025 will be no exception. Offices are set to become more flexible, sustainable and inclusive, adapting to the needs of a modern workforce. Here are 8 key trends that are poised to shape office design in 2025.

Adrian Norman

Head of Design

Friday, 3rd January 2025

2 minutes read time

About Adrian

1. Wellness at work

Wellness focused design in office spaces is becoming a key consideration as businesses increasingly recognise the importance of supporting the physical and mental wellbeing of their employees. A wellness centred office integrates elements that promote health, reduce stress and encourage a balanced work life dynamic.

These features could include:

Ergonomic furniture
Natural light
Dedicated relaxation zones
Fitness facilities
Wellness programmes

Natural lighting - Wood Group, Green Park, Reading

Wellness breakout space - Sage UK, Reading

Two seats in a small wellness room offering a place to relax

Wellness breakout space - Alantra, London

2. The green standard

Sustainable office design in 2025 will continue to focus on reducing environmental impact while enhancing employee wellbeing. This includes using eco-friendly materials, improving energy and water efficiency and incorporating greenery to connect workers with nature. Offices will prioritise renewable energy, efficient lighting and modular, long lasting furniture. Sustainable commuting options, like bike facilities and EV charging stations, will also become common, reflecting a broader commitment to environmentally conscious and adaptable workspaces. These efforts will align with goals for sustainability while supporting healthier, more productive environments.

Bike storage - GPE Woolyard, London

Electric vehicle charging points

3. Design for everyone

Inclusive office design in 2025 will focus on creating spaces that accommodate diverse needs, ensuring accessibility for all employees. Features like adjustable furniture, wheelchair friendly pathways and inclusive restrooms will cater to physical accessibility, while sensory friendly areas with lower lighting and noise levels will support neurodivergent individuals. Offices will integrate universal design principles, such as clear signage, high contrast visuals and assistive technologies like voice activated systems and screen readers. By embracing inclusivity, workplaces will not only meet accessibility standards but also enhance the sense of belonging, ensuring every employee can thrive in the environment.

Inclusive office design

4. Tech driven design

Technology based office design in 2025 will centre on integrating smart and adaptive technologies to enhance productivity, collaboration and employee experiences. Offices will feature IoT enabled devices for seamless control of lighting, temperature and security, ensuring optimal comfort and energy efficiency. Meeting rooms will include advanced video conferencing tools and AR/VR setups to support hybrid teams and improve remote collaboration. AI driven systems will analyse workspace usage, suggesting layout adjustments or booking systems to maximise efficiency. These innovations will create dynamic, responsive offices that cater to modern work styles and drive innovation.

Technology in the workplace

5. Cafe culture in the workplace

Work cafes are becoming a pivotal element of modern office design, blending the functionality of a workspace with the comfort and social atmosphere of a cafe. These spaces are designed to encourage collaboration, informal meetings and moments of relaxation, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional desks or meeting rooms. Equipped with comfortable seating, high speed Wi-Fi and easy access to beverages or snacks, work cafes cater to a range of activities, from casual brainstorming sessions to focused individual work.

Communal coffee space in the office - Aberdeen Standard, Stockley Park

Work cafe- Kajima, London

Commual coffee space - The Body Shop, London

6. Where flexibility meets functionality

Hybrid workspaces in 2025 will be at the forefront of workplace evolution, seamlessly integrating physical and digital environments to meet the demands of a flexible workforce. Offices will feature adaptable layouts, such as hot desking areas for rotating employees, collaborative zones equipped with immersive video conferencing tools and soundproof pods for focused work. Advanced technologies and IoT enabled devices will ensure connectivity and efficient resource management. By blending in person and remote work, hybrid workspaces in 2025 will cater to the diverse needs of a modern workforce.

Hybrid work spaces

Hot desking - Wavestone, London

Flexible working space

7. Biophilia is here to stay

Over the years biophilic design has become a prominent feature in workplaces, with companies integrating nature inspired elements to improve employee wellbeing. The trend highlighted the benefits of connecting workers to nature, including reduced stress, increased creativity and better overall health.

Biophilic design in 2025 will not only enhance aesthetic and wellness benefits but also align with sustainability goals, emphasising environmentally friendly practices such as energy efficiency and indoor greenery that contributes to cleaner air. This evolution reflects a growing commitment to creating restorative, engaging and eco-conscious work environments.

Artistic biophilic features - GPE Elm Yard, London

Biophilic office features

8. Reduce, reuse, recycle: circular economy

Circular economy in office design takes sustainability to the next level by creating a system where furniture, technology and building materials can be easily upcycled, repurposed or reconfigured. These offices are designed to evolve over time, featuring modular, replaceable components that reduce waste and extend the life of resources. By prioritising adaptability and minimising environmental impact, circular design not only reduces the carbon footprint but also supports a more resilient and sustainable workplace.

Learn more about circular economy here.