Modern Office Trends 2020
by Kim Schroeder
As we enter the new decade, let’s take a look at what office trends are hot and what are not. Office styles have seen many changes throughout the years. So, what should we expect to see for office spaces in 2020? First and foremost, we expect to see continued growth in improving employee performance, productivity, and well-being.
Private Office
Executive Office designs have been continuously evolving – a few years ago, selling an executive desk was a pretty straightforward purchase but today that is not the case. Today’s modern offices integrate technology in amazing ways! Executive desks can be sleek and beautiful. There are even apps to download on your smartphone that can move your desk up or down or let you know that you have been sitting in your chair too long.
Private offices with dark, bulky furniture have had their place (and can still work in certain instances) but are generally not what is trending in today’s modern office. The market has really exploded with options – from classic mid-century to high-gloss modern designs and even sit-to-stand options. There is something out there for everyone’s taste.
Open Office Space
Square footage dedicated to multi-purpose and collaborative spaces continues to increase in open concept offices. One new trend in office design is Dynamic Flexible Spaces. Lightweight modular furniture that can be moved around easily can transform a space to suit a business’ needs. Another feature that we will see more of in today’s modern office is movable walls such as Trendway’s Volo Wall. This wall can allow for spaces to be multi-functional by utilizing the space in a variety of ways. These spaces can serve as a small meeting room, coffee gathering area, or can transform into a quiet room for employees that need some focus time.
Another trend that is still gaining momentum in the coming year is Collaborative Spaces. These areas are aimed toward building teamwork, building trust, and providing opportunities for creative thinking. Employers are also looking to feature things such as fireplaces, game rooms, fitness and wellness areas. These added incentives are a way for employers to help improve relationships, enhance positivity, and bring in new talent.
Biophilic Design
Nature and a more organic style is finding its way into offices now more than ever. Wood architectural elements, plants and water features are ways that companies are incorporating nature into their office designs. This is a great way to bring warmth and character into an otherwise sterile looking space. Biophilic Design is the new trend in bringing a healthier and more productive environment to employees. As we look toward more environmentally conscious and sustainable products, wood is once again in the forefront. Wood can be used on walls, countertops, and in accent areas. It adds that “biophilic texture” to an office design. It is also proven that bringing nature into a space improves productivity and well-being to employees.
There are a lot of exciting things happening in 2020. We will definitely continue to see the use of collaboration areas, the ability to turn offices into multi-purpose areas, bringing nature into the office and the shift toward a more relaxed professional atmosphere. Working remotely is also another trend that will continue in 2020. Look for more on that topic in our future blogs!
