2022 Office Trends

The last couple of years have certainly been a challenge for commercial fit out contractors, designers and installation teams working in the construction industry. Despite uncertainty underlying the future of our workplaces, it seems the office is here to stay, just not as it was before.

As many of us return to work, companies concentrate their focus on office refurbishments, ready to adapt to a new reality of working. 2021 saw the huge ‘trend’ of working from home, so what are we expecting to see in the offices of 2022? Let’s get into it..

1. Hybrid Work Models

It seems everyone is discussing hybrid workplaces; a space that combines dynamic work styles, including remote and in-office activities. Born out of the pandemic, this office trend places flexibility at its heart.

Those in the construction industry can expect to see an influx of retrofit enquiries in order to adapt existing offices with an agile and hybrid design. The idea is that these spaces are designed to support the staff, rather than the work. Hybrid offices will need to take acoustics, comfort and company culture into consideration with the help of dynamic breakout areas, acoustic booths, formal and informal meeting spaces, intricate floor plans and more.

Defined by versatility, a hybrid workforce might also lead to the relocation of offices, as not every staff member will be in a space at one time, meaning a smaller space is needed..

2. Office Downsizing

Whether reducing company size or accommodating a balance of home/office work model (with most companies predicted to let their employees spend 2-3 days either at home or in the office), many offices have started to realise they can manage a smaller space, saving on money and management.

With these smaller workplaces, space planning is integral to ensure every area in the office serves a purpose. From space planning to storage solutions, we’ve put together a few of our top tips for how to downsize to help you get more from less.

3. Coworking Spaces

Coworking areas are ideal for companies that are considering downsizing. Dealing in leases, they remove permanency and commitment to one space, perfect for the ever-changing nature of businesses.

With the number of leases rising since the pandemic for buildings with office spaces to let, this is sure to increase competition for property owners, investors and landlords. To keep pace, larger contractors can be expected to carry out CAT A+ office fit outs to market agile office spaces that are ready for occupation from the get-go.

4. Workplace Wellbeing

Since the hybrid office stresses support for the individual worker, a larger focus is expected to be placed on staff welfare.

The concept of physical and mental health in office design is far from a new trend, but the pandemic certainly highlighted the importance of this has on employees’ day-to-day lives.

Whilst it’s easy to cut corners to save costs when it comes to office interiors, some solutions provide dual qualities and offer multiple benefits. Take, for example, moss wall panels. These design features incorporate biophilic elements to connect staff with nature and impact their mental state, however, they also have sound-absorbing properties that can form the perfect soundscape for productive working.

The welfare of individual employees will be incredibly important in 2022. Full interior fit outs or simple office renovations will face the challenge of finding healthy interior solutions that promote happy environments and positive behaviours.