Dec 15, 2022

LEASEHOLD IMPROVEMENTS: 5 OFFICE DESIGN TRENDS TO CONSIDER IN 2023

Our Nanaimo leasehold improvements team is piping in on the Great Return-to-Office Debate with an off-beat solution—office renovations. According to a recent article published by LinkedIn, hybrid work is here to stay, with many companies downsizing their office space to accommodate the changing work landscape. If you’re in a similar position or are leasing an office space for your business, here are five leasehold improvement design trends to consider in 2023. Not only will these optimize your working environment, but they’ll also make the office a more desirable place to be.

1. INTEGRATE NATURAL TEXTURES AND PALETTES
Incorporating natural elements into your space isn’t just last year’s custom home trend (although as Nanaimo custom home builders, we do see this here to stay in 2023). Using organic textures like natural stone for countertops, raw brick for an accent wall, or natural wood for flooring brings an element of the outdoors in. This helps create a calm and inviting environment for your team to focus in. Don’t shy away from adding plants around the office as they help improve air quality and freshen up your space.
2. GO FOR ENERGY-EFFICIENT & ECO-FRIENDLY UPGRADES
Finding ways to build more energy-efficient and eco-friendly spaces is still top of mind for 2023. Not only are these changes good for the planet, they’re good for your workplace environment too. Consider maximizing your lighting with fun LEDs or high-efficiency windows and doors. Integrate modern technology with office automation for heating and cooling systems, smart plugs, or wireless technology. Opt for vintage or upcycled furniture from a local retailer to add a touch of style and hominess to the workplace.
3. CONSIDER AN OPEN-CONCEPT LAYOUT
Open-concept floor plans are a trending design layout for the workplace environment. Whether you opt to go fully open or partially, more businesses are removing physical barriers to promote workplace culture, encourage teamwork, and boost productivity. If your office space is small, open concepts maximize access to natural light and provide more versatile spaces to work, break, and move. Use functional furniture like standing desks to give your team more flexibility in their personal workspace.
4. SOUNDPROOF YOUR WALLS
While open-concept layouts are beneficial, it’s also important to consider sound absorption. Clattering keyboards and in-office chatter can be distracting for some people who just want to put their heads down and focus. You can optimize these spaces using acoustic panels made of different materials or even source-printed acoustic art. Keep designated rooms for in-person or online meetings and optimize them with soundproofing so your team has options.
5. BE BOLD WITH COLOUR AND PATTERN
Whether you go bright or dark, being bold with colour and pattern in your office space is taking over. Trends for 2023 include black accents like dark countertops and lighting fixtures, bright statement walls, or retro patterns (yes, the 70s are back). Bold colours and patterns can help spark creativity and boost energy in the workplace.
Optimize your workspace with our leasehold improvement team.

With over 35 years of experience, our team of planners, designers, and commercial construction builders have the knowledge and experience to help optimize your office space. No matter the trend (or the decade), we’ll help you make the right decisions and provide expert leasehold improvements advice. Check out our portfolio to learn more about how we can help you.