As we look ahead to 2024, the world of office design is set to undergo some exciting transformations. From sustainable and eco-friendly initiatives to embracing the beauty of nature indoors, here are the top six office design trends to keep an eye on in the coming year.
1. Optimistic, earthy and futuristic colours will dominate
In 2024, we can expect a captivating interplay of colours that will define design trends. Namely, the Coloro + WGSN colour of the year for 2024: Apricot Crush (Coloro 024-65-27).
Apricot Crush will infuse a comforting radiance into both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its gentle, sun-kissed character effortlessly complements neutral tones, making it a superb choice for textiles. The colour is playful and versatile making it appealing to all genders. It also has soothing properties that are perfect for creating a calm atmosphere in the workplace.
Other colours forecast to dominate next year were laid out in the Window to the Future of Color, in this collaboration by WGSN + Coloro:
Cyber lime
Radiant Red
Elemental Blue
Fondant Pink
Nutshell
As we navigate a period of realignment, adapting to rapid changes in society and technology, uncertainty looms in ongoing economic, political, and environmental challenges.
During this time, we will seek to strike a balance between our uneasiness and optimism.
These colours will play a dominant role in design and interior aesthetics, introducing a subtle sense of comfort and positivity amid the uncertainty.
2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Design
Sustainability has been a driving force in interior design in recent years, and in 2024, it’ll be bigger than ever as offices seek to reduce their environmental footprint.
Expect to see more furniture crafted from recycled materials and organic materials like bamboo, cork, and reclaimed wood - not only improving environmental impact but creating a soothing and aesthetically pleasing workplace.
In 2024, you can also expect to see more energy-efficient technologies, recyclable materials, and a push towards waste reduction, for example with furniture rental.
3. Biophilic Design
The allure of nature is undeniable, and in 2024, it will find its way into our office spaces more than ever before.
Expect to see the integration of natural elements such as indoor plants and gardens, living walls, organic materials like stone and terracotta, and expansive windows that allow abundant natural light.
The benefits of biophilic design are widely recognised to help enhance employee well-being and productivity. The incorporation of natural elements won't be a mere afterthought but a deliberate strategy to boost physical and mental health.
Spaces will be carefully curated to mimic natural settings, providing employees with a sense of serenity and calm amidst the hustle and bustle of the workday.
4. Integrated Technology
In an increasingly digital world, technology has become an integral part of office design.
The concept of the "smart office" will be more than just a buzzword; it will be a fundamental aspect of office functionality and user experience.
IoT devices and AI technology will play a significant role in automating tasks and improving the overall office experience.
Embracing the integration of technology will not only enhance operational efficiency but also elevate the overall office experience, making it more intuitive, comfortable, and productive.
5. Flexible Workspaces
Next year we'll continue to see a growing demand for flexible workspaces, capable of transforming to meet the ever-evolving needs of the modern workforce. Expect to see desks, chairs, and workstations that can be easily rearranged, allowing employees to shift seamlessly between solo tasks and collaborative projects.
These flexible pieces will cater to the rise of hybrid working models, providing dedicated hot desks for remote workers and collaborative hubs for in-office teams.
We’ll see a shift towards areas that promote agility and quick transitions between tasks, such as huddle rooms and project-specific zones.
The office of 2024 will be a fluid and dynamic space, where furniture adapts to the tasks at hand, promoting creativity, and agility.
6. Well-being-Centric Design
Although the Covid-19 pandemic may feel like the distant past by now, the events of recent years still echo in today’s conversations, highlighting the importance of employee health and well-being.
Consequently, office designs in 2024 will place even greater emphasis on creating environments that promote physical and mental wellness.
We’re increasingly seeing a move towards more recreational spaces for relaxation and social interaction.
The furniture within these spaces will be carefully chosen for comfort and flexibility, enabling employees to unwind, recharge, or engage in informal brainstorming sessions.
To help promote physical health, we’ll also see more ergonomic furniture designed to prevent physical strain and promote good posture. Acoustic solutions will also become a priority as adjustments are increasingly being made to reduce noise stress.
From office booths to sound-absorbing panels, these measures will create a serene and focused atmosphere.
2024 promises to be an exciting year for office design, with a focus on sustainability, nature, technology, aesthetics, flexibility, and employee well-being. These trends are set to shape the way we work and the spaces in which we do so. Embracing these changes will not only keep your office on the cutting edge but also create a more productive and harmonious workplace for your team.