With the recent shift in workspace design requirements post-pandemic, designers have started implementing invigorating design techniques to give a contemporary feel to their offices. While different working models were adopted by employers during the pandemic, such as Work from Home, Hybrid work Models, and so forth, the design and planning of workspaces have also evolved at a rapid rate leading to new design perspectives. Modern commercial designs have also come in sync with the latest technological trends to create a conducive work environment. In this article, Rohit Suraj- Founder and CEO of Urban Zen, enlists multiple interior design trends in commercial interiors that are expected in the year 2023.
- Open layouts
Lately, open layouts have become increasingly dominant in commercial office designs. The trend of open layouts eliminates physical barriers such as cubicles, walls, and cabins between occupants, maximizing collaboration and interaction. They prevent employees from working in confined areas and facilitate communication within and across teams and groups. An open floor plan adds to the work flexibility and keeps the workspace more dynamic. It gives people more space to move about, collaborate, and utilize it productively. Opting for flexible furniture also complements open layouts and provides more breathing space.
2. Replacements for traditional desks and chairs
Modern workspaces are no longer limited to traditional desks and chairs fitted in an organized manner. Spending time working from the comfort of their homes has made people seek comfortable seating choices where they can let their creative juices flow. Trends in the 2020s tend to spice things up by throwing in multiple alternatives to the age-old office furniture. In 2023, we are likely to see better replacements for traditional desks and chairs in workplaces in the form of bean bags, couches, breakout areas, lounges, etc. As people are more focused on their well-being today, being glued to their desks is no more a relevant option. Conventional office furniture is being replaced with more flexible options. From comfortable couches for collaborations to private booths for zoom meetings, commercial office designs of 2023 are likely to sport a lot of different options that would transform the office interiors.
3. Sustainable design
Millennials are consciously going eco-friendly by making efforts to save the environment. These eco-friendly efforts are reflected in commercial interior designs as well. This has influenced design decisions regarding the selection of furniture, decor, paints, and every other interior design element of a workspace. By 2023, increased use of recycled and natural materials such as brass and copper is expected in commercial designs. The sustainability trend also includes usage of energy-saving lighting systems throughout the office. By taking advantage of natural light and passive ventilation, incorporating high-efficiency techniques, using LED lighting, sticking to low-emission materials, and repurposing furniture, workspaces can easily minimize their environmental impact and promote sustainability.
4. Biophilic design
A significant outcome of the sustainability trend is the use of biophilic designs in offices. Many workplaces have been opting for biophilic design largely in recent times and are likely to follow the lead in 2023. From installing potted plants to using natural materials such as wood and bamboo in furniture, biophilic designs give a unique and exotic look to offices. In addition to biophilic designs, having sources of natural light throughout the office, through glazings and skylights, adds to work efficiency of the staff and gives them the energy to get the work done.
This new year is going to be a year of experiments that are likely to be made in the commercial design space to push limits. Make sure to embrace the year by incorporating the latest design trends for your workspace in the best way possible!