What’s trending in 2025?

A guide to embracing the new normal in the workplace.

As we step into 2025, the workplace continues to evolve rapidly, with the seismic shifts we’ve experienced over the last few years continuing to set the stage. Trends in technology, design, employee well-being and the demand for sustainability are reshaping how we approach our daily tasks and office spaces. These changes present the opportunity to prioritise the needs of employees, transforming the office from the place one MUST be to the place one WANTS to be, as it becomes a sustainable and inclusive space for innovation and collaboration.

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1. Sustainability: A Non-Negotiable Priority

Sustainability is not just a trend but now a crucial business strategy. With growing concerns over climate change and the environment, businesses are under increasing pressure to adopt eco-friendly practices. Thus, sustainability has become a core expectation, with employees and consumers alike demanding more environmentally responsible practices.

Adaptations:

  • Design for  sustainability. Incorporate eco-friendly furniture, such as modular pieces that can be easily reconfigured to meet changing needs. A great example is the Vitra Anagram sofa, which has detatchable tables, cushions and supports, making it extremely adaptable and reducing the need for constant remodels.
  • Implement circular design principles - use materials that can be repurposed or recycled and focus on long-lasting products to minimize overconsumption.
  • Partner with sustainable vendors who prioritise low-impact manufacturing processes, recycled materials, and energy-efficient solutions. For example, Day2’s recently toured the showroom at House of Hackney, a B-corp certified fabric house aiming to push sustainability one step further by becoming “actively regenerative ” which shed light on the ways which modern design can prioritise eco-friendly materials and practices.
  • Our "Day2 Renew" programme offers a solution that secures a sustainable future, as we recycle 100% of retired products, as well as refurbishing and reupholstering 5,000 pieces of furniture a year. We also gift 5,000 pieces of furniture to charities and schools in a steadfast attempt to increase the lifespan of our products, prevent overconsumption and provide access to more people. Find out more about this here.

2. Well-Being: The Core of Employee Satisfaction

Work-life balance is more critical than ever as we have recently seen a decline in employee satisfaction regarding this since the pandemic. This indicates that many are struggling with stress, burnout, and a lack of balance, highlighting that adaptations need to be made as we move into the new year.

Adaptations:

  • Prioritise holistic health by designing spaces that cater to physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Create wellness rooms where employees can take a break and reflect in a peaceful environment. Having designated quiet rooms also provides inclusivity for those with sensory issues or other disabilities.  
  • Access to natural light and green spaces can do wonders for reducing stress and improving overall employee satisfaction. Incorporate plants, biophilic design, and calming colours throughout the workspace, as can be seen in Day2's recent project with Hilson Moran (featured below).
  • Design for flexibility. Some employees need quiet areas for deep  concentration, while others thrive in collaborative spaces. Offer a variety of environments where employees can choose the space that best suits their task at hand.
  • Ensure that office furniture is ergonomically designed and conducive to movement, encouraging employees to remain comfortable and active throughout the day.

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3. The Use of AI: A Daily Workplace Tool

AI is no longer just a buzzword, with more than 80% of companies having adopted the use of AI in some way by the end of 2024. It has become a core tool that over three quarters of employees use daily, with 46% of these having only started using AI in the latter half of 2024. These stats make it clear: AI is here to stay, and here’s how workplaces must adapt to harness its full potential and overcome its challenges:

Adaptations:

  • Integrate AI seamlessly into the workspace. Instead of treating AI as a standalone tool, make it an extension of employees' environments. Ensure tools like AI-powered video and sound systems are easy to access and utilize in group settings.
  • Foster collaboration through AI. Specially designed collaborative zones with interactive displays and shared AI hubs will allow teams to leverage AI for cross-team brainstorming and information sharing.
  • Promote  AI training. Provide workshops that teach employees how to use AI to enhance their productivity, making the workforce more skilled and competitive, whilst ensuring cross-generational inclusivity. Rather than viewing AI as a crutch, encourage its use as a powerful tool for enhancing workplace performance.

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4. Digital reliance as flexible working takes the lead.

Flexible and hybrid work has become the new norm, with many employees balancing time between working from home and the office. This now requires employees to be on screen and digitally connected more than ever before, meaning businesses must rethink how they design workspaces and integrate technology.

With over half the number of meetings now taking place at least partially remotely, here’s a few ideas of how to adapt your workplace to provide seamless access to digital tools and screen access to enhance collaboration for all employees:

Adaptations:

  • Create hybrid-ready environments that combine tech-enabled collaboration zones and private, individual video call spaces. Make these spaces easy for everyone to use, regardless of technical skill.
  • Prioritise privacy and accessibility. Quiet rooms or pods are essential for employees needing focused work or private meetings, away from distractions.
  • Equip your office with flexible access to technology - provide laptops and other portable devices so employees can access screens anywhere in the office, or even outside.
  • Ensure there are ample power sources available throughout the office to support the constant need for charging laptops and devices.
  • Create designated breakout spaces where employees can relax and disconnect and Encourage regular breaks to prevent potential eye strain and posture problems caused by long hours in front of screens.

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The Future Workplace is Hybrid, Sustainable, and Employee-Centric

As we move into 2025, the workplace will continue to evolve in response to technological advancements, employee expectations, and sustainability pressures. By embracing these trends and adapting your workspace accordingly, you’ll not only enhance your business's productivity but also foster a more engaging, inclusive, and sustainable environment for your employees. Prioritise flexibility, technology, ecofriendly practices, and well-being to stay ahead of the curve and thrive in the new normal.

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