The year 2025 marks a turning point in workplace design. No longer centered around aesthetics, corporate offices are now embodying spaces that prioritize employee well-being, sustainability, and adaptability. At SGA, we’re at the forefront of these innovations, creating spaces that not only serve the present but anticipate future needs. Here are the top four trends we see shaping commercial design in the year ahead:

1. Wellness-First Design: Spaces That Support People and Productivity 

Wellness has become a cornerstone of workplace design, moving beyond “nice-to-have” to an essential focus for companies striving to retain and empower their workforce. Today’s workforce demands environments that actively support mental and physical health.  In 2025, spaces that balance human-centric design with business performance will be essential components of a thriving, future-ready workplace and set the tone for a new era of workplace culture. 

What this looks like in practice:

• Mindful Spaces: Meditation rooms, fitness areas, and quiet zones to reduce stress and foster focus.
• Active Design: Walking paths, standing desks, and ergonomic furniture that support physical health.
• Natural Light: Access to daylight to improve mood and energy levels, which translates into enhanced productivity.

Designed by SGA, the “amoeba-inspired” nooks within Parcel P are particularly notable for their adaptability, providing a range of zones for quiet contemplation or group engagement.

2. Gaining In-Office Favorability: Amenities! Amenities! Amenities!

Office perks are now seen as integral to creating a positive work environment that supports job functionality and overall employee satisfaction. We’re seeing a surge in demand for sports simulators, wellness rooms, fitness centers, and outdoor exercise areas. These spaces not only enhance employee satisfaction but also boost productivity and reduce turnover.

SGA’s renovation features a state-of-the-art fitness and wellness hub with spa-inspired locker rooms and an outdoor exercise area, reflecting the growing demand from owners for spaces that promote a balanced, active lifestyle for tenants.

3. Biophilic Design: Bringing the Outdoors In

Biophilic design has been gaining momentum for years and will continue to evolve in 2025. This design practice recognizes the inherent human connection to nature and seeks to integrate natural elements and processes into indoor environments.

Key biophilic elements we’re embracing:

• Natural Materials: Incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone, and woven textiles to create a sense of warmth and authenticity. These materials are often paired with neutral, earth-tone color palettes to evoke calm and balance.
• Maximizing Daylight: Large windows, skylights, and open floor plans allow sunlight to penetrate deeper into the space, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and improving occupant mood and productivity.
• Greenery and Living Walls: Living walls, vertical gardens, and indoor planters improve air quality while adding aesthetic value.

This striking multi-story moss lobby wall extends into the gym, serving as a biophilic focal point that underscores themes of wellness and sustainability.

4. Flexible Work Zones

Today’s workforce is diverse, with varying work styles and preferences. With hybrid work and varied schedules becoming the norm, multi-purpose spaces and dynamic work zones cater to this by offering a range of settings – from open collaboration areas to private focus booths. 

What flexibility looks like in 2025:

• Adaptable Layouts: Spaces that transform easily with movable walls, modular furniture, and foldable partitions that allow spaces to be reconfigured quickly.
• Shared Work Zones: Fewer dedicated workstations and more shared workspaces. “Hot desking” systems, where employees can reserve desks or meeting rooms as needed, provide flexibility while optimizing the use of square footage.
• Technology Integration: Multi-purpose spaces powered by technology that supports collaboration and flexibility, such as video conferencing setups, interactive displays, and smart scheduling systems.

Looking Ahead

The future of design lies in creating spaces that not only adapt to the changing world but actively contribute to a better one. By embracing trends like wellness-focused spaces, biophilic design, flexibility, and impactful amenities, we can create buildings that respond to change while driving a more sustainable and positive future.

Distinct work zones have been designed with customizability in mind to better accommodate individual and group preferences where occupants can control their spatial experience.

Want to learn how these trends can transform your next project? Connect with our team to start a conversation.