Top 2018 Office Design Trends

Design plays a key role in how an office functions.

It enhances the productivity of employees, enables a business to showcase its ethos and genuinely helps firms to attract and retain the best talent. It is also constantly evolving to keep pace with the way we work. Here’s what to expect from workspace design in 2018.

Quieter workspaces

Flexible workspaces with open common areas and fewer walls have increased in popularity. This trend is set to continue in 2018, especially amongst SME firms, who require the ability to collaborate with other likeminded people and businesses.

Whilst this type of workspace is said to increase the productivity and creativity of a workforce, it also makes for a much noisier and distracting environment. Expect to see an increase in individual work pods and quiet rooms, where people can go to think or talk in a more confidential environment.

Natural surroundings and outside space

The health and wellbeing of a workforce is the most important thing to any business. Research has shown that plants can help to relieve stress and promote calmer environments, so they needn’t just be a pretty accessory in the reception area.

More plants and living walls will feature in office design, along with better utilised outside spaces, so employees have a range of places to grab some downtime and relax.

Energy efficiency

As businesses seek to be greener, we will see a greater shift towards energy efficient design across new office designs. Firms will look to implement renewable energy solutions, such as solar and wind, as well as systems to monitor energy usage.

LED lighting, waste management systems, better energy efficient air conditioning units and window controls will certainly be top of the list of greener applications in 2018 and beyond.

Bespoke office solutions

Whilst the trend for office interiors in 2018 is a continuation of the industrial look – with exposed infrastructure, bold colours and natural furnishings – this style doesn’t suit every workplace.

We have seen an increase in businesses looking for more bespoke designs. This involves creating individual environments that reflect the style and character of a company and its brand image.

Cloud technology

Cloud based technology continues to develop and enable more people to move away from on-site working. Offices will have fewer screens, desks and conference call facilities.

Instead, the focus will be on smart hot desk areas and creative storage solutions, to better service those people working less and less in the office.

Future proof your workplace

Your office design should evolve as your business evolves. Take time to reflect upon whether your current workplace meets the needs of your firm now and how it needs to adapt to changes in the future.

A tailored and bespoke workspace is timeless – it should be viewed as an investment for the long term. We believe each client deserves the best of the best, which is why we handpick the best specialists and designers to fit your specific brief and budget.

Find out more about our Design Process to see how we can help you, every step of the way, to create the design you envision.