Now trending – a look at the latest in commercial interior trends

Over the last two decades we’ve seen our fair share of interior trends come and go. We’ve also witnessed more long-term changes that reflect the way we use and interact with buildings as work or leisure spaces which have revolutionised interior design.

While every single one of our projects is unique and bespoke to the client, there are subtle similarities between projects which allow us to see new trends as they emerge. Here are the top five trends that we’re seeing grow in popularity, particularly in the commercial office sector.

Panels and patterns

This trend is centred around traditional timber panelling reimagined with new patterns for a bold contemporary look. It’s a fantastic way to add character to an interior and thanks to its combination of traditional and modern aspects – it works equally well in both new builds and refurb projects, allowing designers to create a unique interior to suit the space.

There are endless different patterns and styles which give this trend plenty of scope for designers to make it their own. We work with suppliers all over the world and have carefully sourced a range of materials to make sure we have the breadth of range, complete with unique patterns not often seen in the UK, that architects and designers are looking for to meet this trend. This versatile timber finish lends itself for use on bespoke wall panelling, reception desks and much more.

Textures and tones

Similar to the first trend, this takes it to a new level with the addition of textures by working with 3D machined panels with grooves cut in or reeded panels to create a more tactile, textured finish with more depth. It adds visual interest to a contemporary or minimal space with clean lines.

This trend showcases the natural beauty of timber and we’ve worked on several projects which use various species of timber and different profiles from slats to a softer reeded approach. It’s all about working with the timber species and highlighting the natural tones and grain of the wood to influence other aspects of the interior design and colour schemes.

Curved appeal

Here it’s all about using soft lines and reeded panelling to create rounded, curved edges to soften a space. It’s perfect for use on stairwells, doorways, and internal walls and for meeting pods complete with curved seating which provide a semi private breakout space within an open plan office environment. We’re also seeing curves being used as a way to divide up a workspace into different zones without losing the flow of a fully open space. Again, we’re working with materials manufacturers from across the globe including a new style Milano panel from Italy which we’re currently installing on a project.

Natural elements

Biophilic design continues to be a feature of today’s workplaces thanks to its many benefits from wellbeing to air purifying properties. When installed correctly it also offers a low maintenance solution.  It can be used to create impact in spaces of all sizes from full height atriums to café style work canteen areas – bringing a little of the outside in.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability remains a key driver across the whole construction industry at every stage of the supply chain and this is being borne out in interior design in terms of the types of materials being specified as a way to improve the environmental impact and legacy of a project.

The fact that we manufacture in house means we have greater control over the provenance of the materials we use and we’re working with several innovative suppliers using recycled materials to create stunning new products we can turn into beautiful interiors for our clients in a more sustainable way.

The world of interior design is ever changing and we’re looking forward to seeing how these core trends evolve over the coming months. We are passionate about interior design and working with architects to make their vision a reality, whether it follows a tried and tested design, is inspired by a trend or goes its own way – seeing a project take shape never gets old. If these trends have given you some inspiration for your next project, contact our team and see how we can work together to bring your design to life.