Top 5 Office Design Trends for 2024

Here at Ergo Outlet, we proudly supply a lot of office furniture to customers all over the UK. So we get to know how the office environment changes and adapts based on the needs of today, but also for the future too. In this article, we’ve identified the top 5 office design trends we think will shape the office working environment in 2024 to help you stay ahead of the curve.

1. Sustainability

One trend (which we’re not sure is even a trend now, as it’s becoming the norm) is focused on sustainability. Many companies are constantly recognising the importance of reducing their environmental footprint by installing LED lighting, bringing in paper free policies, and choosing furniture crafted from recycled materials.

Choosing eco-friendly designs not only has a positive impact on our planet, but it’s also something your employees should feel proud about too. This could mean getting teams involved in recycling practices; making use of natural light in offices to reduce artificial lighting; or choosing second hand office furniture in office expansions. As society becomes more aware of their long-term affects on the environment, businesses must also show their awareness of the situation.

2. Flexible Workspaces

Remember the time when we were bound to the confines of an office building? Hybrid workplace strategies are ever present among businesses globally now. In response to this shift, we’re seeing offices undergo transformations to support more flexible workspaces.

For example, instead of having one single layout throughout an entire office, we expect to see the rise of modular furniture and free standing dividers to accommodate the needs of a dynamic workforce. Who’d have thought we’d see so much office furniture on wheels too! This includes meeting areas, desks, and storage to make the best use of space.

Breakout areas are also improving this year to help fight burnout and to encourage a friendly environment in the workplace. If everyone has the option to work from home, what would be the point in coming in to a cold dark office? So making your office space inviting could be the difference in having a full or empty office.

3. Increased Need for Privacy

Beyond flexible workspaces, we’re finding more offices are considering visual privacy for their staff. Office screens can help with that in most cases but what about private conversations?

This is where acoustic booths play a pivotal role. They can be strategically placed to offer a retreat for private conversations, or even a place for focused working without the noisy distractions that can come with an open office space. With so many sizes and bespoke options, acoustic booths open up a whole new avenue of interior design ideas for businesses to experiment with. By providing a diverse range of private and collaborative workspaces, the modern office can become a safe haven for all types of people and roles in a company.

4. Employee Well-Being

As specialists in ergonomic office furniture, we know all too well how important it is for offices to acknowledge the importance of employee well-being. With the emphasis on ergonomic furniture being stronger than ever, it’s a trend that won’t be disappearing anytime soon, that’s for sure!

This means focusing on quality over quick-fix solutions. From chairs designed for optimal posture to height adjustable desks to promote movement, offices are investing in furniture that prioritises the physical health of their staff. Not only does it improve productivity but it also underscores a commitment to creating a workspace that values the long-term welfare of its employees. We don’t hear many complaints from office workers about that change!

5. Biophilic Design

Offices are continuing to recognise the impact biophilic design has on employee morale, mental health and productivity. Biophilic design is all about trying to bring the outdoors indoors.

Businesses will be incorporating natural elements through: colour choices, planters, accessories, and even partitioning. Adding plants into office settings can make a bigger difference than you think! Check out our article on the top 10 reasons to include plants for a more pleasant and greener working environment.

This trend also brings us back to big windows to let in more natural light. Hopefully, this means more office workers will actually see some daylight during a full working day.

Conclusion

We anticipate these trends will continue to gain traction throughout 2024 and beyond. Many businesses are reimagining their office spaces to create a more comfortable workplace. What are your thoughts? Are you already ahead of the trends? Are there any that you’d like to include in  your workspace?

We are more than happy to assist you in adopting these trends, making sure your business is prepared for the year ahead. Our office design services will let you transform your workspace, optimising it for peak efficiency. Get in touch with us today!