Last week, our design team headed to the Atlanta Market—one of the most influential design events in the country—to look ahead at what’s next for luxury hospitality, Class A office spaces, and emerging office design trends. Our goal was to gather inspiration that translates directly into the environments you manage, design, and care about.
Leaning on classic and enduring design first, we build elements of new trends in a way that is unique to each building, each client and each brand. The Atlanta Market offered an incredible array of new products, and we returned to Chicago inspired and eager to bring fresh ideas to our clients’ spaces.
Staying ahead of these movements is critical because the definition of a ‘premier workplace’ is constantly evolving. For our clients, incorporating these emerging office design trends is not merely about decoration—it is a strategic investment in tenant satisfaction and asset value. In a market where occupants are seeking deeper connection and comfort, a space that feels curated and current can be the deciding factor in lease renewals and daily engagement. We track these shifts so that your properties don’t just keep up, but lead with confidence.
What we saw during our visit confirmed something we believe deeply—design is becoming more intentional, more emotional, and more rooted in familiarity. We left thinking about three things:
1. Vintage Nostalgia
There’s a growing desire for pieces that feel storied and timeless rather than overly trendy. Vintage-inspired finishes, heirloom silhouettes, and subtle nods to the past are making a strong return—especially in holiday décor. When paired with lush greenery, these elements create warmth, authenticity, and a sense of place that feels both elevated and inviting.
Expanding on this in the context of broader office design trends, we are seeing a shift away from the sterile, ultra-modern corporate aesthetic. Incorporating “storied” elements—even if they are new reproductions—adds a layer of psychological comfort known as “resimercial” design. By blending the durability of office furniture with the soulfulness of vintage aesthetics, workplaces can foster a sense of history and stability that grounds employees in an increasingly digital world.
2. Classic Colors, Refined
Neutral palettes and traditional hues are taking center stage again. Think rich greens, warm ivories, soft metallics, and restrained contrast. These classic color stories provide longevity, allowing seasonal installations to feel elegant rather than fleeting.
This return to tradition aligns perfectly with sustainable office design trends, where the focus is on creating spaces that do not need to be overhauled every few years. A refined, classic backdrop allows companies to evolve their branding or seasonal decor without clashing with the permanent architecture. It signifies a move toward “quiet luxury” in the workplace—environments that feel expensive and thoughtful through texture and tone rather than loud, temporary gimmicks.
3. Red Is Back
Perhaps the boldest takeaway: red has officially re-entered the conversation. From deep burgundy to true, saturated crimson, red is showing up with confidence—particularly in holiday design. Used intentionally, it delivers drama, energy, and a sense of celebration without overwhelming a space.
Current office design trends favor boldness in communal areas. We are seeing these deep crimsons and burgundies utilized effectively in lobbies, collaborative breakout zones, and social hubs to stimulate conversation and energy. When balanced with the neutral palettes mentioned above, red becomes a sophisticated power move rather than a distraction.
Bringing These Trends to Your Space
We returned to Chicago inspired and eager to bring these fresh ideas to our clients’ spaces. By leaning on these enduring design principles, we can build elements of new trends in a way that is unique to each building and brand.
If you are thinking about refreshing your interiors or want to explore how these office design trends can revitalize your workspace, we’d love to continue the conversation.