The last few years have seen a major shift in how businesses approach their office spaces. With more emphasis on aesthetics, functionality, and employee wellbeing, 2024 will showcase some of the most exciting trends for future-ready workplaces centred on connection, wellbeing, and change.
As a leader in workplace design, MillerKnoll talks about the top 6 emerging trends shaping office spaces this year. Based on decades of expertise, MillerKnoll identifies shifting priorities that empower companies to embrace conscious design attuned to modern needs.
Eco-Driven Designs
Sustainability advances from a trending topic to fundamental design ethos as organisations demand responsible operations. MillerKnoll’s newly announced sustainability goals inform material and manufacturing selections, exemplifying corporate responsibility for an eco-driven workforce and clientele.
The HAY Boa Table designed by Stefan Diez is a contemporary take on the conference table typology which showcases renewable bamboo construction aligned with net-zero emissions targets. HAY recently received the Nordic Swan Ecolabel for their Boa Table with linoleum tabletops. Prior to receiving ‘the world’s toughest environmental certification’, the Boa table was evaluated according to different parameters of resource efficiency, climate impact, quality, human health, and conversation of biodiversity.
Ergonomic Support
Adjustability tailored to body mechanics reduces injury risks associated with prolonged sitting while lowering fatigue. Incorporating ergonomic chairs into office spaces helps fix this, in-turn enhancing employee wellbeing and productivity.
Ergonomic to the core, Aeron’s pioneered posture-first design by Bill Stumpf and Don Chadwick epitomises the ergonomic gold standard, evidenced by decades of accolades. Its launch was pioneering in the office furniture industry nearly 30 years ago – and it still is, thanks to updated research and material innovation, including the addition of ocean-bound plastic to the body of the chair.
Technology Integration
Innovative capabilities elevate furniture beyond style to enhance user experiences. From flexible monitor arms to intuitive connectivity set up, integrated technology simplifies workflows, positioning companies at the forefront of innovation.
Compatible with all docking stations with USB-A and C ports, CBS’ Ondo centralises connectivity needs for streamlined collaboration. This helps employees keep their desktops neat and clutter-free, in turn improving the ability to focus on the task in hand, reducing stress and boosting productivity.
Energising Breakout Zones
Thoughtfully designed breakout areas drive engagement, creativity, and renewal through experiential spaces promoting informal connection. Strategic furnishings balance professionalism with relaxation to enable recharging and relationship building.
Knoll’s Womb Chair and Platner Coffee Table duo invites relaxed exchanges within sophisticated interiors. The pop of colour invites a welcoming and creative energy whilst still showcasing a professional corporate environment.
Illumination for Productivity
Strategic office lighting delivers many benefits – from elevating engagement to upholding wellness and safety. Thoughtfully designed illumination balances task-oriented needs with atmospheric considerations. By mitigating eye fatigue risks that help you focus, quality lighting systems reinforce alertness and concentration throughout dynamic workdays.
Muuto’s Fine Suspension Lamp is not just aesthetically pleasing, but this uniquely versatile piece offers a myriad of options, available in three sizes that can be hung both horizontally and vertically, and as an ambient, general or task light with a 320-degree beam angle. These qualities make it a design with many faces, perfect for any work environment.
Clutter-Free Organisation
Proper storage facilitates security, efficiency, and peace of mind via tidy access to essential documents and equipment. Clean organisation optimises square footage while upholding professionalism to keep workers focused.
NaughtOne’s Sideboard Storage offers refined hideaways for eliminating office clutter. Equally, this Sideboard holds its colour very well and can be a great way to make a statement to an interior.
By incorporating these 6 office trends into workspaces, companies can create environments that boost efficiency, productivity, and wellbeing. MillerKnoll leads progress for people and the planet through evidence-backed workplace insights.
