In the ever-evolving world of workspace culture, one thing is clear - the office environment is thriving.
All but written off at some points over the last few years, the simple fact is that there are just some things you need to be in a workplace setting to do properly - from streamlined teamwork to creative collaboration.
But there’s no doubt that our requirements and expectations of our office spaces have changed quite dramatically over the past few years, in ways that lots of companies are still adjusting to.
In design terms, we interiors experts have seen a definite softening of the work environment - a shift towards resimercial vibes and homely comforts that we’ve embraced with open arms at Design Tonic HQ.
Today, employee wellbeing and satisfaction are at the heart of many modern office design trends, with corporate success driven and measured by a firm’s ability to attract, retain and inspire the best people, not churning productivity metrics.
And that calls for holistic and happy work environments that empower everyone to perform at their peak.
Our favourite kind!
We’ve talked loads on the blog about how to shape these kinds of workspaces - but what of the emerging trends; what are our future worklife goals?
Of all the contemporary commercial interior trends floating our boat right now, there are 3 that we just can’t get enough of…
Office Greenery and Gardens
Stressful day? Feeling mentally jaded? In need of a boost?
Study after study has shown that time spent in a natural setting is one of the best things you can do to reduce overwhelm, lift mood and give your brain a mindful reset.
Research by Cornell University found that students felt happier and less stressed after sitting for just 10 minutes in a natural environment - and that the same benefits can be gained by adding greenery to interiors too.
And, with a whole new eco-aware generation entering the workforce, creating corporate greenspace is a must for a future-proofed, sustainable office.
Our love for the restorative power of biophilia is no secret - lush greenery is one of the hallmarks of a Design Tonic space.
But the real beauty of biophilic design is that it’s relatively simple to incorporate into your workspace, even without an outside zone.
Design Tonic X 12 King Street, Zerum and Pawsome Pets Boutique
Of course, for those companies lucky enough to have an outdoor space, take this as your cue to make the most of it.
Dress patios and terraces with comfortable seating, shady pergolas and plenty of pots, like the fabulous rooftop terrace at 12 King Street in Leeds.
This stylish, multifunctional space is the perfect example of connecting inside and out, carrying the same sleek feel and scheme as the collaborative area within.
For those whose breakout options are inside only, introduce greenery and florals to walls, ceilings, dividers and planters.
At Zerum (above, top right), we even planted an olive tree in the middle of this central seating area to create a restful indoor parkland setting!
And for lovers of colour?
The eye-catching flower wall we designed for Pawsome Pets Boutique (above, bottom right) has to be one of our all-time favourite floral upgrades - sure to brighten even the dullest days with its joyful vibes.
Check out our pick of the 3 best Biophilia trends here
Design Tonic X White Rose Education
Pets at Work
Bringing a furry friend into the workplace was always going to get a big yes from us, so we’ve been delighted to see it evolving from a rare occurrence to a fully-fledged workplace trend - a four-legged office revolution that shows no signs of slowing!
This phenomenon reflects a broader shift towards creating more inclusive, flexible and enjoyable work environments.
Pets, especially dogs, have a remarkable ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels, with studies showing interactions can lower cortisol, decrease blood pressure and elevate mood.
And let’s not overlook their ability to spark social interactions and break down barriers, acting as icebreakers for workmates who might not otherwise have connected - a boost in socialisation which can aid teamwork, communication and even creativity.
With dog ownership especially soaring since 2020, many employees find a progressive pets-at-work policy to be a massive help - saving on costs and bringing overall wellbeing and productivity benefits that boost the morale of pet-lovers throughout the office.
Design Tonic X Pawsome Paws Boutique & White Rose Education
But, you might ask, where can pets hang out while at work?
Obviously, from an interior design perspective, there are implications for office layout and aesthetics, and designing pet-friendly spaces requires careful consideration of functionality, comfort and hygiene.
We’ve been lucky enough to create quite a few of these special spaces recently, from the canine-friendly breakout and boardroom at Pawsome Pets Boutique to the cosy, custom-crafted pup cubbies at White Rose Education - a firm favourite spot with both doggy inhabitant and owner!
Our top 3 tips for a pet-friendly space?
- Build in amenities like water bowls and screening at the right height - if a dog is to spend time resting in a glass-fronted office, for example, consider low opaque film or frosting to stop them getting distracted.
- If you have the option, a pup cubby is a brilliant idea. Featuring a comfy bed and privacy doors with plenty of ventilation, these are the perfect quiet space for doggy friends to get some peaceful downtime.
- If dogs or other pets are to be regular office attendees, make sure to design for durability. Good flooring, wipeable paints and washable fabrics are all a good idea to keep your office looking good over the longer-term.
Wellness-centric design
Just as it’s key to bring the natural world in to boost employee wellbeing, the colours we choose and the zones we create are also crucial.
In contemporary office design, spaces for downtime are key, from breakout zones where staff can kick back and socialise to more serene spots that promote mindfulness and rejuvenation.
And, as well as being an important way to reinforce brand identity and underpin company culture, colour is also a prime consideration when designing a wellbeing-focused workspace, with the power to evoke different emotions and moods, to calm and reduce stress, to stimulate creativity and to influence cognitive function and concentration.
At Wizu Workplace in Glasgow (above), the coworking gurus were looking for a colour palette that would match their stylish, creative ethos and help guide their users to ever-greater levels of collaborative productivity, dynamism and innovation.
We combined deep pops of pastel shades with soft, luscious fabrics, warm wooden flooring and feature tiling for a finished design that oozes vitality and flair - the perfect example of a bright workspace for bright talent!
When it comes to breakout zones, most modern offices have theirs in the bag (and if yours hasn’t, get in touch today!).
But what we’re loving right now is the rise of even more holistic workplace solutions.
From serene zen rooms and restorative yoga and pilates studios to immersive gaming spaces, these enlightened options can have a profound impact on productivity and performance, significantly improving concentration, creativity and problem-solving abilities.
And crafting spaces that cater to the diverse needs of your workforce can also play a critical role in supporting employee satisfaction and retention, as competitive employees seek employers who can demonstrate that they offer amenities that contribute to a positive and supportive work environment.
Design Tonic X Mackenzie Stuart
Looking for inspiration? The out-of-this-world office we created for Mackenzie Stuart is a prime example.
Their fabulous and oh-so fun breakout space features plenty of plush banquette seating in jewel tones, a decadent bar, a Playstation zone and a pool table, making it the ideal spot for colleagues to socialise and bond - but it doesn’t end there.
Mackenzie Stuart’s goal was always to make their workspace a place that their employees would love to spend time in, and staff wellbeing was at the forefront of their brief all through the process.
And so, this stylish, forward-thinking office also offers a fully equipped golf simulation room as well as a stunning yoga studio - the perfect places for their lucky employees to recharge their batteries and return refreshed and raring to go!
