Looking forward into 2025, the landscape of workplace design continues to evolve, shaped by shifts in how and where people work. From the rise of flexible working arrangements to the integration of technology and sustainability, the trends influencing office spaces reflect broader societal and cultural changes.
We sat down with Emily Whitworth, our in-house product design expert, to discuss the key design trends expected to dominate in 2025 and explore their implications for the modern workplace.
Q: How will colour trends in 2025 shape office design to balance productivity, creativity, and comfort?
“Colour plays a vital role in setting the tone and atmosphere of an office. Despite mixed reviews, the Pantone Colour of the Year for 2025, Mocha Mousse, is a muted earthy tone that’s perfect for office environments. It’s calming and versatile, but to prevent spaces from feeling too dark, designers can pair Mocha Mousse with lighter pastel shades or use it as an accent colour alongside vibrant hues, offering endless design possibilities.
While Mocha Mousse works well for productivity-focused spaces, brighter hues like Dulux’s Colour of the Year, True Joy – a vivid yellow – is a refreshing colour that accentuates informal living areas.
Pastel tones within office furniture were on the rise during 2024 and with the new Pantone colour released leading the way, it seems that they could be here to stay in 2025. By combining Mocha Mousse with pastel hues and brighter accents, designers can create dynamic yet harmonious spaces that appeal to a wide range of tastes. However, this nuanced approach to colour reflects the growing distinction between designing for productivity-focused workplaces and residential spaces.”
Q: How are design trends for 2025 and beyond reshaping workplaces to prioritise inclusivity and create environments where everyone feels valued??
“Inclusion has become a cornerstone of workplace design. In 2025, features catering to diverse needs – such as gender-neutral bathrooms, meditation or prayer rooms, and quiet-designated areas for focused work – will become increasingly common. Designers are paying close attention to elements like lighting, acoustics, and ergonomic furniture to meet diverse needs and accommodate a wide range of preferences.
Inclusivity goes beyond functionality; it’s about creating environments where everyone feels valued. For instance, considering neurodiversity and accessibility helps ensure workplaces are welcoming to all employees, making them both practical and meaningful.”
Q: How is free desking evolving in 2025 to meet the demands of a hybrid workforce while enhancing efficiency and employee satisfaction?
“Free desking, or hot desking, gained significant traction during the pandemic as hybrid work became the norm. This approach allowed employees to share desks and helped companies maximise office space by removing personal desks. However, as more organisations are now mandating a return to full-time office work, the limitations of free desking have become apparent. Employees arriving at the office only to find no available desks has led to frustration and inefficiency.
Looking ahead, more and more workplaces will be pivoting towards hybrid solutions that combine hot desking with assigned seating for core staff. Enhanced scheduling systems, powered by mobile apps, will likely play a key role in ensuring desk availability. By integrating technology to streamline desk bookings and maintaining flexibility, businesses can create a balanced environment that caters to both organisational needs and employee preferences.”
Q: How is storage design evolving to meet the needs of hybrid work and modern workplace trends in 2025?
“The shift towards paperless offices has been transformative, resulting in the disappearance of large filing cabinets and their replacement with sleek, modern storage solutions. Products like modular Plexus units have gained popularity, offering a clean and organised aesthetic that aligns with contemporary office design. As digital document management systems continue to improve, the trend towards minimalist, clutter-free workspaces will persist in 2025.”
Q: How is biophilic design evolving in 2025 to create more immersive and productive workplace environments?
“Biophilic design is all about integrating natural elements into workplaces. It’s already a staple in many offices, but in 2025, we’ll see this trend taken to new heights. Living walls, indoor gardens, and nature-inspired artwork are becoming more sophisticated. Biophilic elements and natural light not only improves air quality and reduces stress, but also enhances overall productivity. The connection to nature is a powerful tool in workplace design.”
Q: What sustainability trends are shaping workplace design in 2025, from eco-friendly materials to energy-efficient innovations?
“Sustainability remains a top priority for both companies and designers. The use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable furniture will become more widespread in 2025. Designers will increasingly highlight these choices, emphasising their commitment to environmental responsibility. Certifications such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) and the WELL Building Standard (WELL) will serve as benchmarks for creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also planet friendly.”
Q: How are workplace designs evolving in 2025 to incorporate home-like comforts that entice remote employees back to the office?
“To entice employees back to the office, companies are prioritising comfort and aesthetics. The trend of “pretty” interiors – designed to resemble home environments – has gained momentum. Cosy modular seating, coffee tables, sofas, and collaborative zones provide a welcome contrast to traditional desk-focused layouts. By fostering a sense of relaxation and community, these spaces enhance employee well-being and productivity.
This approach aligns with findings like those from the Gensler UK Workplace Survey 2020, which revealed that while remote work offers flexibility and 71% of UK workers were satisfied with their experience working from home, the office remains an essential hub for collaboration. Virtual meetings can quickly run into difficulties, such as sound quality and connectivity issues, so being in-person eliminates these issues. It’s also important to create environments that encourage joy and happiness to combat possible feelings of loneliness. It is about the quality of the space and how that can be optimised for working, rather than how much you can cram in. By designing spaces that blend functionality with warmth, businesses can create environments that employees enjoy spending time in and attract the best talent.”
Q: How are office designs in 2025 addressing privacy concerns in open-plan environments while maintaining collaboration and functionality?
“As offices have become more open and collaborative, the need for privacy has grown. Booths – designed for phone calls, focused work, or small meetings – offer the perfect solution. These enclosed spaces provide a quiet refuge within bustling offices, ensuring employees have the option to work without distractions. In 2025, we expect to see more innovative booth designs that balance aesthetics with acoustic effectiveness.”
Q: How is technology shaping workplace design?
“Technology will play an increasingly central role in workplace design. From apps that allow employees to book desks and lockers to advanced sensors that optimise lighting and climate control, the smart office of 2025 will be more connected than ever. These innovations not only enhance convenience but also support sustainability by reducing energy waste.
As artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to advance, offices may incorporate predictive systems that anticipate employee needs – such as adjusting lighting based on the time of day or suggesting meeting spaces based on team schedules. This seamless integration of technology will redefine the office experience.”
Q: Finally, what are your key takeaways for companies looking to redesign their workplaces in 2025?
“Workplace design in 2025 will be characterised by adaptability, inclusivity, and sustainability. By embracing trends such as smart technology integration, biophilic elements, and home-like comforts, designers can create spaces that inspire productivity and foster well-being. As companies navigate the balance between remote and in-office work, the quality of the workspace will play a crucial role in attracting and retaining talent.
The key to success lies in understanding the evolving needs of employees and crafting environments that support their diverse preferences. By staying ahead of these trends, designers can ensure that the workplaces of tomorrow are not just functional, but also meaningful and enriching.”
Contact Us
Are you looking to update your workspace in 2025? Speak with our workplace design experts on 01621 855053 or send us an email at info@yourworkspace.com. We look forward to hearing from you!