2026 Trends: Character Driven Design
Workplace design is evolving from a brand reflection to an embodiment of belief. The standard, corporately branded office is fading; in 2026, designers will be focused on adding character and depth to the workplace.
Architectural details, art and accessories play a key role in purpose-led designs in which corporate identity and values will be expressed more subtly, fostering a more authentic connection to the space. Think of it as the anti-Severance movement: employees aren’t trapped in nameless buildings with sterile lights and endless, featureless hallways here. Instead, layered designs, thoughtful accessories, and story-driven spaces invite employees to linger, discover and connect — and even bring their own individuality to a space.
It would be easy to write off these aesthetic elements as inconsequential, but they are part of a holistic design strategy that informs the organization, operations and behavior in the workplace. At their best, these workplaces reflect both the company’s and its employees’ values and purpose, transforming them from a backdrop for work to a place where employees are realigned and reminded why their contributions matter. Beyond experience, this type of purpose-led design has been shown to drive tangible organizational outcomes such as higher engagement, lower turnover and stronger productivity.
