As more companies return to the office part- or full-time in 2024, the needs employees look for in their work environment continue to change. While having perks such as a state-of-the-art coffee machine or a fridge stocked with a variety of bubbly drinks is nice, the overall design and feel of an office space is top of mind. As we continue moving through 2024, several trends from previous years continue to shape how companies approach their office spaces, but new trends are evolving to address the ever-changing needs of employees. 

Hybrid Workspaces and New Ways of Working

The days of the traditional 9-5 may be fading as many companies start to adopt a hybrid work schedule. Employees may be in the office only two or three days during the week and work from home the other days. This rise in a hybrid work schedule continues to allow businesses to reduce their overall floor plans and be creative with their office space. Trends such as benches, casual seating areas, and flexible desk arrangements continue to be popular additions to improve the overall flow and flexibility of the workplace.

Collaboration Spaces for Inspiration

Part of the success of the hybrid work environment is that it allows employees to be individually creative, but also come together as a team and collaborate on a project or task. In 2023 we saw a rise in collaboration spaces such as breakout rooms, simple meeting rooms, and project hubs, and we expect to continue this trend in 2024. Simple collaborative spaces free of distracting elements encourage idea-sharing and innovation within the workplace. 

Acoustic Control for Privacy 

A new trend emerging in 2024 is improved control over acoustics. As more employees return to the office, companies have been challenged with the need for noise control and increased privacy. There are many different options when it comes to providing acoustic control such as panels, baffles, and sculptures, all of which help with noise reflectance and add to the fun aesthetic of a space. White noise machines are also an option, especially in areas where people need more privacy. Soundproof booths continue to be popular in the workplace and more manufacturers are offering individual booths as well as booths that can accommodate up to six people. All of these options provide solutions to noise control while striking a balance between collaboration and individual work. 

Demountable Partition Walls for Flexibility and Adaptability 

Demountable partition walls are incredibly popular at the moment. Not only do they look good and are flexible, but they also are a great solution when construction permitting is slowing down progress on a new space. Acquiring the proper permits for construction can take months, which can halt business productivity and profitability. Since demountable walls are considered furniture, they do not need special permits, so businesses can get a functional space in weeks. Demountable partitions come in many options including glass, laminate, and framed gypsum board panels that can be painted. 

“We design all of our layouts to code and ADA requirements,” said Chelsea Swanson, General Manager of Interior Fusion. “[We] take into account the electrical and mechanical placement in the space so [our] clients can be assured the space will function just as well, if not better, than with conventional construction.”

Green Spaces and Bringing the Outdoors Inside

2023 saw a rise in bringing natural elements into office design, and this is a trend that will carry over into 2024. The incorporation of plants, greenery, and natural materials resembling the outdoors provides employees with a peaceful working environment and tranquility in an otherwise hectic work schedule. Comfortable lounge areas provide a space for employees to relax during breaks or work in a soothing atmosphere that inspires creativity. Natural and green design not only provides a pleasing aesthetic but also contributes to improved employee happiness.

Office trends continue to constantly change and our team at Interior Fusion are experts in designing your workspace for your ever-evolving business needs. We will work with you from the very beginning to the final reveal to create a perfect office space to inspire creativity and innovation.