We sat down with Formica Group EU Design Manager Nina Bailey who attended the show to discuss the standout trends shaping the future of workspace design.

Q: What aesthetic trends stood out at the 2025 Workspace Design Show?
There’s a clear movement towards a ‘new organic’ office aesthetic. Terracotta remains a key player, alongside deeper, more muted tones of red. These warm hues are being paired beautifully with purples, greens, blues, and neutrals, creating a rich yet balanced palette. The overall direction is about bringing earthy, calming tones into workspaces, reinforcing a sense of comfort and well-being.

Q: How is usability influencing workspace design?
One of the most noticeable trends at the show was the continued popularity of cubicles and pods, but with a twist. Rather than just small focus booths, there’s a shift towards larger, soundproofed meeting pods, designed to be integrated into open-plan offices. This evolution highlights the ongoing need for flexibility, ensuring that workspaces can accommodate both collaborative and private work within the same environment.

You can read about the Utilisation of the Office in 2025 here.

Q: Were there any standout materials making an impact?
Felt continues to dominate as a go-to material for its sound-absorbing properties, and it’s now being incorporated into lighting design. This means lighting fixtures are serving a dual purpose—not just illumination but also acoustic enhancement. Another interesting material was recycled cotton by Archisonic, which also offers excellent sound absorption. Sustainability was a recurring theme, with many exhibitors showcasing eco-conscious materials that blend performance with environmental responsibility.

Q: Did you spot any material combinations that could inspire future workspace palettes?
Absolutely. At Pedrali, we saw a stunning mix of FENIX^® materials in terracotta and deep blue, beautifully paired with terrazzo, felt, and chunky woven textiles. These layered combinations create depth and texture, making interiors feel both inviting and dynamic. It’s clear that designers are embracing more tactile and visually engaging surfaces to enhance the overall sensory experience of a space.

This year’s Workspace Design Show reaffirmed the industry's focus on flexibility, well-being, and sustainability in workplace design. With a strong emphasis on earthy tones, multi-functional spaces, and innovative materials, the future of workspaces is looking more adaptable and aesthetically refined than ever.

Low maintenance costs, extensive décor ranges and ongoing performance excellence all make Formica^® Laminates the only choice for future-proof offices.

Discover how laminate from the Formica^® Collection can work for your next office design project. Order your samples now.