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Office design & workplace trends to embrace in 2025

2nd January 2025 - 7 mins
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At Argyll, we’ve been operating exceptional office spaces in some of London’s most prestigious locations for over 25 years. We take pride in staying ahead of emerging workplace design trends, ensuring we offer our clients the very best spaces to support their businesses and fuel their growth.

As we welcome 2025, office design should focus on creating environments that inspire productivity, foster collaboration, and meet the evolving needs of both today’s workforce and the planet. From flexible spaces that accommodate hybrid working to setups that prioritise employee well-being and sustainability, here are the key office design and workplace trends to embrace in 2025.

The evolution of hybrid working

Even four years after the pandemic, hybrid working remains prevalent. According to the Office for National Statistics, more than a quarter of workers in the UK still follow a hybrid model, driving changes in office design to adapt to this enduring trend.

Technology integration in meeting spaces

With increasing numbers of team members working remotely, the technology in meeting rooms needs to advance to ensure they can still connect and work collaboratively with colleagues. Video plays an integral role in making this happen. For effective communication in 2025, there will be an increased focus on ensuring meeting spaces have all the latest facilities such as state-of-the-art Polycom equipment, laser-sharp HD screens, stereo sound, and cameras that track the sound in the room – keeping the meeting centred on the speaker at all times.

Other emerging trends regarding integrated technology in meeting spaces include sensors that monitor and maintain air quality for a healthier space, and enhanced security systems such as facial recognition and fingerprint scanning.

Flexible workspace options

As hybrid working continues to grow, workspaces must adapt to offer greater flexibility. With more people coworking and hot desking, workers value the ability to select a workspace that suits their needs at any given time. One day it might be a quiet corner for focused tasks; the next, a collaborative setting that sparks creativity. By 2025, office design must cater to these evolving requirements by providing diverse spaces within a single property. At Argyll, for example, our offices offer a range of functional spaces from relaxed yet elegant business lounges to formal open-plan offices and high-spec meeting rooms.

Flexibility of location is equally important, helping people reduce commute times and establish a healthier work-life balance. At Argyll, our coworking clients enjoy access to 11 properties from Mayfair to the City for one monthly fee. What’s more, our clients don’t need to worry about pre-booking a space – they simply talk to the reception team on arrival and we find the ideal spot to suit their needs.

Cross-location collaboration tools

Cross-location collaboration tools are essential in today’s workplaces, enabling seamless communication and teamwork across hybrid, remote and international teams. Platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams allow for real-time collaboration via chat and video from anywhere, be it home or abroad. These tools foster productivity, streamline workflows, and bridge the gap between in-office and remote teams, making them vital for 2025 and beyond.

And office design needs to facilitate access to these tools. Video call booths with adequate soundproofing and lighting are needed so individuals can access virtual meetings, and larger meeting rooms need quality HD screens and Polycom connectivity.

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Workplace wellness takes centre stage

Moving into 2025, workplaces need to value wellness and support employees’ well-being, creating a more inviting, enjoyable and overall healthier place to work.

Biophilic design elements

Biophilic design is set to gain even more traction in 2025, transforming office spaces by incorporating natural elements to connect people with the natural world. This approach fosters a sense of tranquillity and calm, enhancing concentration and overall well-being. Indoor greenery such as living walls and plant life remain key features, but there will also be a greater emphasis on creating outdoor spaces rich in natural elements, allowing employees to reset and recharge. Design trends will increasingly centre on bringing the outside in, with expansive windows, skylights, and balconies that provide views of nature and flood spaces with natural light – beneficial for both mood and circadian rhythms.

Mental well-being support and resting spaces

In 2025, there will be a stronger emphasis on supporting employees’ mental well-being through thoughtful office design. One way to achieve this is by creating spaces where employees can take breaks and recharge during the workday.

Tranquil outdoor areas can offer a retreat into nature and fresh air, providing a chance to rest and reflect. Inside, designated rest spaces might include quiet lounges with comfortable seating, muted tones, and reduced noise levels, fostering relaxation and mental clarity. Kitchen areas, on the other hand, should balance relaxation with opportunities for interaction, encouraging communication and building stronger relationships among colleagues.

Air quality and environmental controls

Moving into 2025, it’s not enough for offices to merely monitor temperature. Air quality and environmental controls are becoming more important, given their impact on employee health and productivity. Advanced ventilation systems along with air purifiers ensure optimal conditions, reducing allergens and pollutants. In 2025, sustainable solutions will be key, ensuring systems are energy-efficient, which is particularly important in older buildings. Here at Argyll, we’ve recently transformed 6 of our heritage properties, which included implementing new heating and cooling systems to reduce emissions and improve efficiency.

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The Human-centric workplace

Despite the undoubted rise of AI, in 2025, there will be an increased focus on valuing the human aspects of the workplace.

Community building in shared spaces

As hybrid and remote work become the norm and shared workspaces continue to grow, fostering a sense of community and networking will become increasingly important. Coworking office providers should explore ways to strengthen connections and enhance individuals’ sense of belonging. For instance, at Argyll, we host exclusive networking events for our office clients, promoting collaboration and cross-functional relationships that benefit everyone involved.

Professional development areas

Creating dedicated spaces for professional development within the office is set to become a key trend, highlighting a company’s commitment to employee growth and learning. Meeting rooms can be optimised with ergonomic seating and state-of-the-art technology to support training sessions, giving employees a designated space for skill-building. This not only enhances the learning experience but also fosters motivation and dedication among the team.

As well as adapting to the needs of the workforce, here are some other office design trends emerging as we move into 2025.

Multi-purpose spaces

Flexible, “multi-purpose” spaces will be essential in 2025. Lounges can double as hot-desking areas, while meeting rooms can transform from boardroom setups to theatres or classrooms. Outdoor areas, too, are no longer just for fresh air – they can host events, workshops and staff socials, making them invaluable extensions of the workplace. Flexible seating and adaptable layouts will be key to accommodating different types of activities and creating dynamic, functional environments for both work and leisure.

Soundscaping and acoustic solutions

In 2025, office acoustics will take centre stage, as the soundscape increasingly influences employees’ mood and productivity. Workspaces will be designed with noise management in mind, offering quiet zones for focused tasks and prioritising sound transfer where it’s needed most, such as in meeting rooms. With the growing reliance on cross-location collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams, soundproofing in key spaces such as video call booths will become even more crucial. This not only ensures confidentiality but also prevents disruptions, creating a more harmonious and efficient work environment.

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Looking ahead: Future-proofing London’s workspaces

Sustainability commitments

There’s no doubt that companies and office providers must demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainability. Energy-efficient offices, powered by renewable energy wherever possible, are essential for reducing environmental impact.

At Argyll, creating more sustainable workplaces is a key priority. In our recent renovation of period properties, we implemented environmental upgrades wherever possible. These included high-efficiency LED lighting with motion sensors and advanced heating and cooling systems designed to reduce emissions and enhance energy efficiency. Additionally, by switching to a Belu water filtration system instead of single-use plastic bottles, we’re saving approximately 48,000 plastic bottles annually – an impactful step toward sustainability.

Adaptability for emerging technologies

Future-proofing workspaces will hinge on staying ahead of technological advancements, particularly in communication. Offices must be equipped with cutting-edge IT, AV, and connectivity solutions to facilitate seamless interactions and collaboration across the entire business. Keeping technology up to date ensures efficiency, supports innovation, and fosters stronger connections in an increasingly digital workplace.

Investment in premium locations

Premium locations will remain a powerful way to enhance your brand image and establish a strong presence in your market. These locations are typically more accessible for both employees and clients, streamlining business operations and fostering convenience. Additionally, premium locations often offer the latest, highest-quality facilities and services, creating an exceptional work environment that supports employee satisfaction and productivity.

In 2025, office design and workplace trends will focus on flexibility, sustainability, and creating a happier, healthier workplace for employees. Here at Argyll, we have over 25 elegantly designed properties in the capital’s most desirable postcodes, from the sophistication of Mayfair to the charm of Kensington. Our offices blend elegance with flexibility, functionality and efficiency. Featuring the latest technology, thoughtful interior design, and enhanced energy efficiency, Argyll offices are at the forefront of workplace trends for 2025. Contact us today to find out more.