Towards Softer, More Vibrant Spaces

As offices compete with residential environments and third spaces, designers are embracing ever softer aesthetics (think curved lines over sharp edges), whimsical forms for humdrum products like acoustic support, and vibrant colours atypical for workspaces. This dovetails with key Milan Design Week 2024 trends (see Soft Seatscapes and Animated Aesthetics).

Prioritising Privacy & Improved Focus

Creating more zones where people can retreat and engage in remote calls or focused work is now a must: a fifth of employees across 11 countries say lack of privacy or inability to focus holds them back from working in-office more often (Steelcase, 2024). Brands are upgrading enclosed pods, sheltered seating and private office products.

Adaptive & Adjustable Approaches

Flexibility is becoming a key selling point for contract products, as we also noted at NeoCon 2023 and 2021. Increasingly, systems comprise parts that can be easily reconfigured by businesses or employees themselves, which is both practical and eco-friendlier. Designs are more accommodating of individual needs and work styles, as evidenced by a wave of height-adjustable products.

Sustainability Principles Gain Steam

Encouragingly, manufacturers across categories – including acoustic products, flooring and seating – are embracing and going beyond sustainability basics by launching innovative circular concepts and experimenting with a range of biomaterials. For additional examples, see Clerkenwell Design Week 2024.