Could these lifestyle trends be the key to a better office environment in 2023?

Written by Leah Sinclair

From leisure and green space to health and wellbeing stations, these lifestyle trends could help change what offices look (and feel) like in 2023.

In our post-Covid world, more of us are returning to the office on a frequent basis.

While hybrid working is still a priority, we’re becoming more accustomed to the day-to-day office life that we once knew so well, from the daily commute right down to office politics.

But despite things returning (somewhat) to normal, there are some things that have truly changed – and making mental health and wellbeing a greater priority in the workplace is one of them.

According to Deloitte’s 2022 mental health report, one-third of employees expect or would like more support for their mental health and wellbeing from their employers – and with this change in attitude from employees, companies are beginning to get on board.

Commercial design and build fit-out company Thirdway has found that there are a few workplace trends emerging that companies are embracing for 2023.

The trends are designed to help achieve a space that allows teams to be creative and happy while creating a workspace that promotes engagement, collaboration, cultural inclusivity and productivity – and we’ve got the rundown on them all below.

Mood-matching lighting

Gone are tasteless troffers and glaring strip lights. 2023’s workplace lighting is all about mood, with the Thirdway team seeing an increase in clients using feature lighting to create a particular ambience in different areas. 

From warm spots with glowing metallic surrounds to daylight ceiling lights, companies are matching lighting to the moods they want to create. All, of course, with a focus on sustainable materials and minimal energy consumption.

Health and wellbeing stations

According to Thirdway, more clients are asking for advice and guidance in delivering mothers’ rooms, non-denominational prayer rooms and wellness rooms, to support a diverse workforce.

“Companies are increasingly aware of the myriad benefits of engaging a diverse workforce and ensuring they feel welcomed and included,” says a spokesperson for Thirdway. “As we head into 2023, we are seeing this evidenced by increased demand for a range of health and wellbeing spaces within the workplace.” 

Leisure spaces

With mental wellbeing firmly in mind, including fun, social spaces in the workplace is becoming a top priority. 

According to the commercial design company, this ranges from larger breakout areas with wine or beer fridges to peaceful library areas and dedicated spaces for watching major sporting events, news highlights and more.

Green takes centre stage

Green has without a doubt been one of the key colours for 2022 and it looks to continue in 2023 with nature coming into the workplace in a big way. 

Krylon’s 2023 colour of the year is the rich, deep green Spanish moss, Glidden’s is vining ivy, which blends blue and green tones, while Valspar’s mid-green flora exudes a sense of wellness and sophistication, proving just how on-trend this colour is. Plus, plants of all shapes and sizes will further emphasise green and greenery over the year ahead, while also supporting mental wellbeing in the workplace. 

Pets at work

Taking pets to work is definitely something we’ve seen more of over the years, and dedicated dog spaces such as under-desk dog beds are on the rise to accommodate a growing cohort of furry team members.

“Pets can work wonders when it comes to improving both mental and physical wellbeing. Employers are taking this on board and accepting that, for some team members, having their pet in the workspace will support them to be at their happiest and most productive,” says Rob Walsh, creative director for Thirdway.

“This is leading to a range of exciting design solutions when it comes to the future of the workspace in 2023 and beyond.” 

Images: Getty; Thirdway

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