An expert has revealed what workers really want from their office space in 2025, including VR rooms, plant rooms and yoga classes.
Nick Riesel, owner of the flexible workplace agency, FreeOfficeFinder, has spilled the beans on what will entice workers back into the office in the new year.
The days of supplying instant coffee and biscuits as a ‘treat’ are long gone.
Employers are being forced to “up their game” to attract top talent.
Where ping pong tables and beer fridges were once all the rage, Gen Z wants a bigger focus on wellbeing in particular.
Traditional fluorescent lights and eyesore furniture is also a big no-no.
Instead, an inviting interior neon signs, bright colours and comfortable seating that invites staff to relax and rejuvenate before returning to their desks.
Drinks fridges are still welcomed but the booze is gone – having been replaced with health drinks and five types of milk, from almond to hemp.
“In 2025, we will see more landlords and workspace providers adapting offices to make them a place to relax and have fun, as well as work,” said Nick, whose company has helped over 50,000 organisations find flexible office space.
“Modern interiors and ergonomic furniture is to become the standard.
“There will also be a bigger focus on offering social events and staff can expect midweek treats – from more traditional cakes and pizza to greener options for health-conscious workers.
“The end-of-week drinks will remain but with alcohol consumption dropping among younger generations, the staff fridges will definitely see the add-on of 0% beers and wines, too.
“Branded, good-quality coffee and an endless list of milk alternatives.
“Soy isn’t enough – the most popular offices have coconut, oat, cashew… the list goes on.
“Health and wellbeing is a huge trend right now and this is only set to continue.
“A free gym is also no longer enough.
“Employers will introduce rejuvenation spaces at work such as ‘quiet’ or meditation zones and wellness programmes that include yoga and pilates.”
Nick also predicts that offices of the future will combine elements of fun, health and technology – offering VR rooms and AI assistants to manage schedules, as well as ‘plant rooms’ and indoor gardens to improve mental wellbeing.
Nick said: “Five years ago, the focus was more on traditional office setups with less emphasis on flexibility, personalisation and holistic employee well-being.
“But in 2025, advanced technology integration and comprehensive wellness programs are important.
“Mental health support, and sustainable and inclusive office designs are essential for attracting top talent.
“The most popular offices supply facilities that allow staff mindfulness and joy – but they are also ultra-modern with top specifications.”
Nick has seen many office trends come and go over the past two decades.
He set FreeOfficeFinder up in 2002, after spotting a gap in the market, with the purpose of helping organisations find managed and serviced office space for rent in London and the UK.
But it’s not just the office itself that matters to workers these days.
The journey and time spent on travelling to and from the office is also a key factor when applicants consider a new job.
A great office could make all the difference though, says Nick.
He added: “Travel and flexibility are significant factors for workers, with many preferring to work from home unless the office is within an hour’s travelling and offers hybrid or remote work arrangements.
“This preference for flexibility can sometimes hinder the desire to work in an office, but if the commute is reasonable and the workspace is attractive, engaging and fun, staff will make the effort.
“The advantage for an employer to have staff working from an office includes the ability to know that staff are genuinely at their desks working and making the most of their time.
“A hybrid model provides the best of both worlds.”
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