Staying ahead of emerging workplace design trends

As employers continue to navigate discussions around hybrid working, many are placing value in trends that ensure their physical office spaces remain both flexible and customisable. Across commercial design, we’ve seen that these trends range from an increased interest in biophilia to a continued demand for neutral tones. 

Shifting working habits

With hybrid working here to stay, employers are placing an emphasis on enhancing the in-person office experience, including through focusing on wellbeing in the workplace. As part of this, biophilic design remains a key trend. 

A working environment that removes natural elements has previously been linked to lower productivity, as well as being detrimental to overall health and wellbeing. As end-users continue to seek more of a connection to the natural world, design choices that reinforce these elements – like Interface’s Upon Common Ground and Connected Ethos collections – continue to be popular options for workplaces across all sectors. The NCS Colour report reaffirms this and concludes that palettes that connect end-users to nature, and bridge the gap between the in and outdoors, will continue to lead in popularity. 

Muted, neutral tones

As our industry becomes increasingly aware of neurodiversity and sensory needs in the workplace, designers and specifiers more fully appreciate the role and potential of colour in the commercial setting. Neutral and muted tones like creams, ivories and light browns continue to be popular due to their timeless nature and the flexibility they offer. In a time where the nature of the workplace is constantly evolving, neutral tones provide a blank canvas that allows employers to put their own stamp on their workplace. 

Additionally, warmer, earthier colours and tones, such as terracotta and warm oranges, are increasing in popularity within workplace design.

That’s not to say everything is beige though! What we’re in fact seeing is bolder colours and textures more often incorporated through furnishings, whereas flooring choices remain neutral – driven by the desire for workplaces that are flexible, adaptable, and timeless in design. 

Looking ahead 

If employers are to fully support their people, it’s crucial we are always striving to design working environments that meet the needs of end-users. Natural textures and tones like the newly launched Etched & Threaded carpet tile and Earthen Forms LVT ranges offer the biophilic and subdued elements that are both in demand and help to enhance the workplace experience.

While we expect nature-inspired patterns and a neutral colour palette to continue trending in the commercial flooring sector, only time will tell – and it’s key that the design sector continues listening and learning from end-users to guide future product innovations.

For more information or design support, visit www.interface.com/GB/en-GB/design/design-studio