5 Emerging Workplace Trends

The workplace continues to evolve in response to shifting societal, environmental, and technological changes. From climate adaptation to AI integration and new generational expectations, these 5 trends are shaping how we work, connect, and design for the future:

1. Climate-Responsive Design

As global temperatures continue to rise, extreme weather and heat are becoming more frequent and severe, exposing the shortcomings of current interior designs and materials. Traditional cooling systems and insulation methods often fail to maintain comfortable temperatures indoors during heat waves, highlighting the need for innovation. Design must prioritize the use of heat-resistant and mitigating materials alongside advanced cooling technologies to ensure homes and workplaces remain safe and healthy.

Extreme heat affects more than homes and office space—it can also affect personal items, furniture, electronics, and more. And in public spaces like parks and plazas, the severe heat of peak temperatures can be a threat to public health. This underlines the need to develop and utilize products that can withstand or mitigate high temperatures. Durable and functional solutions that maintain comfort and usability in extreme conditions while addressing personal and communal needs are essential.

Given the uncertainty of future conditions, companies now commonly use test facilities that simulate extreme weather conditions to determine the viability of their products and solutions in conditions like heatwaves, droughts, and other intense weather events. This testing provides data companies can use to refine designs and materials to ensure real-world performance.

Additionally, higher-education programs are expanding their curricula to equip the next generation of designers and architects with climate-responsive skills. New campuses are leading the way, incorporating resilient design principles into their infrastructure to demonstrate best practices. This approach ensures future professionals are well-prepared to innovate and adapt to climate change.

2. AI Empowered Human Potential

The rapidly expanding use of artificial intelligence has brought with it significant concerns about job displacements. At the same time, this evolution also presents unprecedented opportunities for innovation across work, education, and skills development. AI can amplify personal and professional growth for all ages, changing how we approach workplace well-being, skills training, and collaboration.

AI tools are revolutionizing well-being at work by detecting burnout earlier and providing support for employees with a range of different needs, including neurodivergent workers. These tools are becoming integral to product design, ensuring that belonging is embedded into the foundation of new technologies. Meanwhile, emerging virtually adaptive coaching, teaching, and mentorship technologies offer personalized development and training.

New AI tools are also helping organizations overcome some frequent hurdles of digital collaboration and making cross-team insights more interactive and engaging. In a survey of Microsoft employees, for example, 85% reported that collaboration tools were one of the most necessary parts for effective digital organizations.

It's impossible to deny that AI tools enhance virtual communication for remote and hybrid workers with their teams. These advancements make It harder for talent to be overlooked, while fostering a more inclusive and efficient workplace. And, as AI continues to redefine workplace dynamics, it’s clear that its potential to drive growth is outweighing other fears people may have.

3. Improving Places for People with Disabilities

People with disabilities make up a significant part of any population but have frequently been ignored or misunderstood within our broader society. Over the last few years however, there has been a significant shift toward a better understanding of disability—largely driven through advocacy and belonging efforts. Social media for instance has been a big force in improving community and confidence for individuals with disabilities. This new era has reframed traditional thinking around disabilities in terms of social barriers that must be brought down, rather than viewing disabilities as impairments to be cured or overcome.

Advocates are supporting a more neutral point of view on disability, recasting challenges as differences, and in some situations, real positives. This perspective is more inclusive of neurodivergent individuals and those with physical disabilities and recognizes their unique contributions. The increased adoption of hybrid and work-from-home policies in particular have been a significant boon for those with disabilities, offering much needed flexibility and accessibility. However, a wide employment gap has remained, with disabled Americans being 3-times less likely to be employed than non-disabled people.

Organizations are addressing these issues through reformed hiring practices, improved training, and corporate belonging initiatives. These efforts promote a workplace culture that values all people. By removing social barriers and fostering a supportive environment, businesses can improve the world for people with disabilities—physical and cognitive—ensuring everyone can thrive.

4. The New Business Travel Era

Global business travel has rebounded; it’s expected to exceed pre-2020 figures and projected to reach $2 trillion by 2028. This resurgence offers opportunities for organizations. A key trend is the increase in in-person team gatherings, retreats, and company days out, particularly for remote and hybrid workforces. These events foster connection, collaboration, and stronger relationships.

Super-commuters are also on the rise. These people often travel over 90 minutes daily to work and spend most of their day in the city where their office is based. Driven by the desire for higher wages in areas with a lower cost of living, super-commuters are becoming more common as companies adapt to flexible work arrangements.

The digital nomad community continues to thrive despite return-to-work mandates. Many nomads are choosing independent careers to maintain their remote lifestyles. With more locations welcoming remote workers, this community has more options than ever. This highlights the growing acceptance of remote work and the importance of flexibility. As business travel evolves, these trends emphasize the changing workplace and the need for innovative employee engagement and well-being strategies.

5. Gen Z and the Future of Work

Gen Zers, born between 1996 and 2012, are coming of age in a less stable world. They seek security and reassurance through financial planning, career progression, and reserved social behaviors. Although most Gen Zers want their work to positively impact society, early career stages and economic uncertainty often lead them to prioritize stability.

Flexible schedules are non-negotiable for Gen Zers, who see them as a necessity. They also seek rapid career advancement and competitive compensation, viewing these as essential to their long-term security and well-being. Employers must adapt by offering clear progression paths, robust mentorship programs, and competitive salaries to attract and retain young talent.

Gen Z’s desire for impactful work allows businesses to align their missions with these values. Companies committed to social responsibility and sustainability are likely to resonate with Gen Z employees, balancing their need for stability with their aspirations to make a difference. As this generation enters the workforce, understanding their unique needs and values is crucial for businesses hoping to have a successful future.

Together, these trends highlight the dynamic nature of the modern workplace and the importance of adaptability and innovation. By embracing climate-responsive designs, leveraging AI, supporting disabled employees, adapting to new business travel patterns, and understanding multigenerational needs, organizations can create efficient, productive environments of belonging. As we navigate these changes, the focus must remain on fostering a workplace culture that values all people.