Of the myriad changes wrought by the COVID-19 pandemic, arguably none has been as drastic as the shift in the modern workplace. In addition to more professionals working from home, the commercial office has undergone a dramatic facelift. Modern offices aim to create productive, sustainable workspaces for each and every team member while ensuring the ongoing viability of the enterprise.
Architects, designers, and construction professionals alike have adopted the use of innovative materials, techniques, and principles to make this vision come to fruition. Keep reading as we take a deep dive into the various advancements in building design that are shaping modern office environments.
Natural Light and Ventilation

Natural light and ventilation have multiple benefits for the modern office environment. They enhance energy efficiency by reducing reliance on mechanical and electrical systems. For example, large windows and glass walls that promote natural light flow can provide significant daylighting to reduce reliance on artificial lighting sources. Those treated with low-E coatings even have advanced thermal properties, which can control how much heat is transmitted through the windows.
Natural ventilation and architectural louvers help maintain a fresh, cool environment within the building. They allow fresh air into the building and push hot, stale air out. This can help guarantee optimal interior air quality. These types of passive building features create a more comfortable working environment while limiting HVAC consumption.
Open Floor Plans

Traditional office buildings were all about partitions. They focused on creating a labyrinth of isolated cubicle spaces to give each employee their own work area.
This design concept has conspicuously fallen out of style.
Modern offices leverage open, flowing floor plans. This creates a brighter, more inviting ambiance. It elicits interconnectivity and creativity among team members.
Open floor plans also allow for greater customization. The modern business environment is dynamic and constantly evolving. By replacing permanent walls with modular office furniture and demountable glass partitions, businesses have greater adaptability to meet emergent needs for space.
When designing commercial offices around an open floor plan, it is imperative to make some strategic material choices. Acoustic wall panels are important for soundproofing walls. This prevents noise pollution and helps keep conversations local. Heavy-duty flooring, such as epoxy terrazzo and polished concrete, are necessary to accommodate foot traffic and regular interior reconfiguration. Decorative screen panels, artistic sculptures, and accent walls are important for providing definition and focal points.
Biophilic Design

Biophilic principles are prevalent in modern office design. Creating spaces that are in touch with nature provides a calming effect that reduces stress and enhances productivity in employees. This has given rise to more plants, stone accents, and unfinished wood within the office environment.
It has also led to more functional exterior spaces around the commercial office. Exterior work stations, lunch areas, and conference tables give employees to get some fresh air and enjoy a change of scenery without interrupting the flow of their work day. Covered patios and sliding glass doors that open to an exterior landing are some of the ways commercial offices are incorporating these features.
Rooftop Gardens
Building on biophilic design and functional exterior space, rooftop gardens are gaining traction in the commercial office sector. This innovative approach to roofing uses a layer of vegetation in place of traditional roofing materials. It offers numerous benefits to the structure, including:
- Improved thermal insulation
- Noise reduction
- Lower ambient temperatures
- Stormwater runoff control
Most importantly, rooftop gardens offer numerous benefits to employees. They can improve air quality in and around the building. They provide an attractive, natural aspect that enhances curb appeal. Like connected patios and landings, they offer an opportunity for a change of scenery without leaving the office premises.
Ergonomic Furniture
Cookie-cutter office furniture is a thing of the past. Bulky desks and rolling chairs are being replaced with more customizable options to meet the ergonomic needs of each team member. Modern employees face less physical strain during a day of work thanks to adjustable desk, chairs, and sit/stand workstations. Office furniture is also made of sustainable materials such as bamboo and solid surface. The lightweight fabrication enhances customization as well.
Wellness Spaces
Advances in mental health understanding have sparked innovative new wellness spaces within the modern office. Gyms, yoga studios, zen spaces, and napping areas are just a few features in modern offices that would have been unthinkable a generation ago. Modern businesses understand that happy, healthy team members benefit the enterprise as a whole and are taking unique measures to promote whole-person wellness.
Establishing New Trends in Modern Office Design
Modern offices are being designed with sustainability, productivity, and employee wellness in mind. By leveraging principles such as natural light flow, biophilia, and ergonomics, architects and designers are improving the contemporary workplace for the better. For more of the latest trends shaping the commercial office environment, explore the resources at Construction Daily for the leading insights in the industry.