Trends Shaping 2024-2025

At Manor Interior Solutions, we’ve always believed that design should serve both form and function, and the trends emerging in the commercial design industry this year are pushing those boundaries even further. Let’s dive into some key areas leading the charge:

Sustainable Design – The Future is Green

Today, sustainability is no longer just a corporate social responsibility initiative; it’s becoming a core requirement for commercial spaces. From the materials used to the energy efficiency of the space, businesses are seeking eco-friendly designs that not only reflect their values but also provide long-term cost savings. At Manor, we’ve pioneered projects where reclaimed wood, energy-efficient lighting, and low-VOC materials have created both aesthetic and sustainable office environments. The Graf UK Toilets Refurbishment was a great example of how eco-friendly designs can still feel premium, with the use of sustainable materials like eco-tiles and energy-saving fixtures.

Key Questions to Consider:

• What sustainable goals does your business want to achieve with your new space?
• Are there specific eco-friendly materials or certifications (e.g., LEED) you want your project to include?

Well-Being-Focused Spaces – A Breath of Fresh Air

The workplace has become more than just a place to get work done. Employees now expect environments that contribute to their mental and physical well-being. Designs that integrate natural light, greenery, ergonomic furniture, and spaces for relaxation are not just luxuries but necessities to retain top talent. In the SEKO Northampton Office Fit-out, we saw how large windows, plants, and open spaces provided employees with a space that reduced stress while increasing productivity. These elements have been proven to boost creativity, reduce absenteeism, and foster a happier work environment.

Key Questions to Consider:

• How does the current office environment impact your team’s mood and productivity?
• Would adding natural elements like plants or increasing natural light be important for your team?

Kitchens and Break-Out Areas – The Heart of the Workplace

Kitchens and break-out areas are no longer just functional; they’re vital spaces where employees relax, socialize, and recharge. These areas are key to fostering a positive company culture. In our work on the Kings Breakout Area Refurbishment, we created a kitchen and break-out area that became the social hub of the office. Not only did it provide a space for employees to eat and unwind, but it also encouraged informal meetings and cross-team collaboration. Similarly, the Kitchenette Andretti Silverstone project featured a sleek, inviting kitchen space that perfectly balanced form and function.

Key Questions to Consider:

• Do your employees have a space where they can relax and connect informally?
• Would upgrading or redesigning your kitchen and break-out areas improve overall employee satisfaction and encourage collaboration?

Multifunctional Configurations – Flexibility is Key

With hybrid work models becoming the norm, the need for adaptable office spaces is growing. Companies require layouts that can accommodate solo work, collaborative meetings, and everything in between. In our work for AMPS’ Mezzanine Fit Out and Office Refurbishment, modular furniture, movable walls, and flexible room configurations allowed the office to be transformed depending on the needs of the day. This not only makes better use of space but also improves team dynamics by creating areas that can be repurposed for different types of work.

Key Questions to Consider:

• Do you need spaces that can transition between individual work and collaboration seamlessly?
• Are there opportunities to use modular furniture or adaptable layouts to increase the flexibility of your office?

Fostering Collaboration in Distributed Teams

The challenge of hybrid work is keeping teams connected and engaged, even when they’re not physically in the same space. Office designs that support collaboration both in-person and virtually are now essential. In the Alltrade Office Fit-out, we focused on creating collaborative spaces that included video conferencing-ready rooms, open-plan areas, and technology-integrated workspaces to bring together remote and in-office workers. The result was a space that encouraged both formal and informal collaboration, regardless of location.

Key Questions to Consider:

• How can your office design help bridge the gap between in-office and remote team members?
• Would incorporating technology-enhanced collaboration areas help boost team engagement?